We discussed the absurdity of continuing to operate as if downsizing isn’t happening, referring specifically to the question brought forth in Senate regarding “who will staff the ongoing reviews of undergraduate programs?” If we are asked to “increase efficiency,” shouldn’t it work regarding the ever-increasing service burden as well? When Academic Staff Committee Chair Sarah Morgan arrived, we discussed the “catastrophic leave policy” and how health related absences can be covered. We also discussed the VSIP survey that will soon be going out. We discussed how to break the “austerity narrative” regarding our academic staff appointments and the nature of their contracts. After Sarah left, we discussed a needed edit of our faculty “leave of absence” policy. We came up with a plan of action for this, and adjourned.