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March 26, 2026
# OCAD U President statement on new funding in Ontario budget
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***A statement from OCAD University President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano***
On behalf of OCAD University, I want to express my sincere thanks to Premier Doug Ford, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy and especially Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security Nolan Quinn, and the many officials involved in the process for the Government of Ontario’s historic investment in post-secondary education announced in today’s budget. The $6.4 billion commitment and new policy framework represent a transformational moment for Ontario’s colleges and universities, including OCAD U.
We are especially grateful for the significant and targeted new investment for OCAD U that now recognizes our distinct role, alongside STEM programs. OCAD U’s differentiated, practice-based education is central to Ontario’s future prosperity and our graduates drive the creative economy, build IP-rich companies, and bring design expertise to multiple sectors, including advanced manufacturing, health innovation, and digital industries.
This investment is particularly significant on the eve of the University’s 150th anniversary.
We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Government of Ontario to ensure that this historic investment delivers meaningful and lasting impact for students, communities, and the entire province.
While the government’s changes to OSAP, unfortunately, will have a negative impact for our students, we are committed to ensuring that students with financial need have enough funding to meet the direct educational costs of attending university, including tuition, books and mandatory fees. OCAD U augments OSAP with bursaries, scholarships and work opportunities and we are looking at how we can do more to ensure that our institution remains accessible and affordable to students and their families.
**Ana Serrano**
**President and Vice-Chancellor, OCAD University**
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Related Stories
## Related Stories
[### The OCAD U Mystery Art Sale Whodunit? Is Back!
More than a decade ago, the Whodunit? Mystery Art Sale was a hugely popular OCAD U tradition, drawing crowds and even public line-ups outside the doors. Now, we’re bringing it back for a new generation. On April 3, 2027, the Great Hall will host a sale of 150 original works by OCAD U students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as artists and supporters from the broader community.
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](/news/ocad-u-mystery-art-sale-whodunit-back)
[### 2027 Akin Career Launcher Call For Artists
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designersand Akin have partnered since 2016 to offer this amazing annual opportunity exclusive to OCAD U graduating artists. Two(2) successful applicants will be awarded $2,000 in credits to go towards a studio space at Akin’s shared work spaces in 2027-2028, and $450 in credit for use at Remote Gallery!
January 31, 2027
](/news/2027-akin-career-launcher-call-artists)
[### Partial x OCAD University Artist Showcase Fall 2026 Call for Artists
Partial and the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers are excited to announce the return of our partnership which provides an exceptional career opportunity for OCAD U student artists and recent alumni. Selected artists will be given complimentary 2 year Pro Accounts ($240 value) on Partial and permanent inclusion as featured artists within the OCAD University Artist Showcase on Partial to display their works, and administrate artwork sales and rentals.
December 13, 2026
](/news/partial-x-ocad-university-artist-showcase-fall-2026-call-artists)