STD02: Standards for Committee Terms of Reference

The purpose of this document is to outline the format, content and development process for effective terms of reference (ToR) for formal College committees and subcommittees. ToR provide an operating framework within which a committee achieves its objects. The ToR typically identify the committee's assigned purpose, subject matter, scope of deliberation and desired outcomes; its membership structure and terms of office; and its meeting schedule, governance, methods of operation and reporting requirements.

Fanshawe College ToRs encourage and support effective and efficient committee activity. They promote freedom to act and enablement of consultation, collaboration, innovation and sound decision-making that align with the College mandate, vision, mission, values and strategic goals.

2. DEVELOPMENT AND CONTENTS OF TERMS OF REFERENCE

The person or entity that created a committee, in consultation with the current committee chair and with assistance from the Policy Secretariat, develops and maintains terms of reference designed to achieve the committee purpose and align with the above objectives.

3. TERMS OF REFERENCE TEMPLATES

Attached are annotated templates for the terms of reference for a College committee, and for an addendum to a terms of reference. ToR authors complete all sections, but only include those topics that are necessary to guide the committee toward achieving its purpose. Keep it simple and brief; aim to empower, not restrict.

Annotated Template for a TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR A COLLEGE COMMITTEE

Note: The complete annotated template for Terms of Reference for a College Committee is available in the standards document. Please refer to the original document for the full template including all sections such as Purpose, Definitions, Membership and Terms of Office, Meetings and Conduct of Business, References, and Addenda.

Annotated template for an ADDENDUM TO TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR A COLLEGE COMMITTEE

Note: The complete annotated template for an Addendum to Terms of Reference for a College Committee is available in the standards document. Please refer to the original document for the full template format including all sections and formatting guidelines.