McGill Matters

Campus reminders, from Banner to application deadlines

A new Banner coming your way on Nov. 13

Banner is scheduled to be upgraded from version 6 to version 7 on the weekend of Nov. 11-12. Both interfaces, INB (Internet Native Banner) and Minerva, will be unavailable from 5 pm Friday, Nov. 10 until 9 am Monday, Nov. 13. The upgrade may take longer.

This is a major technical upgrade introducing new system architecture for facilitating development, a new version of ApplicationXtender and many operational improvements.

What's in it for end users? INB users will notice a new user interface that is more user-friendly, with improvements such as tabbed form navigation, user preference settings, larger display windows and more. Minerva users will observe minimal changes — new tabs for menu navigation and a larger font.

All users of INB should visit www.mcgill.ca/banner to find out about Banner 7 information sessions and to follow the ongoing news and tips on the upgrade.

WebCT Vista update

McGill's move to WebCT Vista is almost complete. More than 1,400 instructors, 600 teaching assistants and 26,000 students in almost 1,400 courses are using the system this term. Instructors wishing to use WebCT Vista in Winter 2007 can migrate their courses from previous terms (CE or Vista) or register for training and consultations at the Getting Started page on the WebCT Vista website, www.mcgill.ca/webct.

Keeping safety in mind when it comes to alcohol

McGill Security Services promotes a safe and welcoming environment and acts as partner with all members of the university community to realize this objective. If you are holding or attending an event on campus where alcohol is served, please remember that liquor must be served/sold in accordance with the general regulations concerning the use of alcohol on campus. It is preferable that all beverages are served in non-breakable containers. The use of implements for drinking games (e.g., funnels) is forbidden. Please visit www.mcgill.ca/ancillary/alcohol for more information.

A new position, Operations Administrator – Campus Events, in Security Services has been created to liaise with special event organizers, student and staff groups, Ancillary Services, la Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux and the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal to ensure that all planned special events are consistent with relevant university regulations and policies and are conducted in safe and secure environments.

For other safety and security tips, visit www.mcgill.ca/security/community/.

Applications due for MELSQ Fonds des services aux collectivités

Quebec universities are again invited to submit applications for funding one- or two-year partnership projects with community groups.

The deadline is Dec. 15. Guidelines and application forms are available at www.mels.gouv.qc.ca/ens-sup/ens-univ/financement/FSC/fsc.asp. For information call Helen M.C. Richard 514-398-2985.