{"id":460,"date":"2025-04-08T07:52:02","date_gmt":"2025-04-08T07:52:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/?page_id=460"},"modified":"2025-04-23T12:54:23","modified_gmt":"2025-04-23T12:54:23","slug":"agenda","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/agenda\/","title":{"rendered":"Agenda"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Leaders Summit <\/strong> agenda will feature thought – provoking speakers and interactive plenary sessions. These sessions, along with member – led strategic action tables, are designed to drive system transformation and meet Canada\u2019s moment by addressing key challenges and opportunities within the college and institute sector.<\/p>\n

Introducing Our Keynote Speakers<\/h2>\n
\n
\n
\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

David Coletto <\/a><\/h3>\n

Founder, Chair, and CEO <\/strong>
\nAbacus Data<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Ruaidhri Neavyn <\/a><\/h3>\n

Special Advisor <\/strong>
\nHigher Education Authority of Ireland<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Oren Cass <\/a><\/h3>\n

Founder and Chief Economist <\/strong>
\nAmerican Compass<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Candace Laing <\/a><\/h3>\n

President & CEO <\/strong>
\nCanadian Chamber of Commerce<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Detailed Agenda<\/h2>\n
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22<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

April 22, 2025<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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15:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
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Registration<\/div>\n
(Nunavut)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
17:00 – 19:00 <\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Opening Reception \u2013 Sponsored by TD Insurance<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Join us for an evening of networking and conversation with colleagues from across the country and Ottawa-based partners and influencers. Enjoy a complimentary drink, followed by a cash bar, along with a selection of hors d\u2019oeuvres.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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23<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

April 23, 2025<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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7:00 – 8:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
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Buffet Breakfast<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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8:15 – 8:30<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
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Indigenous Welcome, by Jerry Lanouette<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Algonquin Helper Jerry Lanouette will open the day with a traditional Algonquin welcoming and reflection.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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8:30 – 9:30<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
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Keynote Address:<\/div>\n
David Coletto, Founder, Chair, and CEO, Abacus Data (Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Just days before the federal election, national pollster David Coletto will share an in-depth analysis of Canadians’ perceptions of our sector as well as the major forces shaping the country as we prepare for a new government.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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9:30 – 9:45<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
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Meeting Canada\u2019s Moment: Setting the Stage for Strategic Action<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Presented by:<\/div>\n
Pari Johnston, President & CEO, CICan<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
As Canada navigates rapid geopolitical, economic and demographic shifts and readies for a very consequential government transition, now is the time for bold, coordinated action by our sector to provide solutions to Canada\u2019s biggest challenges. This session will introduce why building \u201ccoalitions of the willing\u201d matters right now, setting a path to new institutional models and system transformation.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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9:45 – 10:30<\/em><\/div>\n
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Keynote Address: The Irish Higher Education System and the National Skills Agenda<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Speaker:<\/div>\n
Ruaidhri Neavyn, Advisor on Higher Education (HE) Policy with the Higher Education Authority and the Department of Education and Skills in Ireland<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The presentation will focus on how the Irish HE system delivers on national skills requirements and will provide an overview of the HE landscape, as well as national and regional strategies, mechanisms, and initiatives which are utilized in Ireland to facilitate HE system delivery of national skills requirements.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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10:30 – 10:45<\/em><\/div>\n
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Networking Break<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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10:45 – 11:45<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Meeting Canada\u2019s Moment: Leadership Perspectives for System Transformation<\/div>\n
(Breakout Sessions)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Opening panel presentations from leaders across colleges, polytechnics, and CEGEPs will explore the key priorities and new models shaping system transformation and meeting Canada\u2019s moment. These discussions will inform the afternoon\u2019s strategic action tables focused on identifying scalable solutions and opportunities for pan-Canadian collaboration. Coming out of our President Circle discussions, priority topics for these sessions are:<\/p>\n

1. Growing Domestic Enrollment <\/strong>(Confederation I)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nLaura Jo Gunter<\/strong>, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
\nSean Kennedy<\/strong>, Niagara College
\nMaggie Matear<\/strong>, Selkirk College
\nSteve Brabant<\/strong>, C\u00e9gep de l’Outaouais
\nStrategies to attract and retain Canadian students and best practices for engaging new types of learners in a context of shifting demographics and labour market needs. (Confederation I)<\/p>\n

2. Driving Digital Transformation <\/strong>(Confederation II)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nLynn Casimiro<\/strong>, Coll\u00e8ge La Cit\u00e9
\nDavid Agnew<\/strong>, Seneca Polytechnic
\nMischek Mwaba<\/strong>, Bow Valley College
\nHelene Bailleu<\/strong>, C\u00e9gep \u00c9douard-Montpetit
\nLeveraging technology to enhance learning, innovation and institutional efficiency, while showcasing best practices to accelerate progress and scale impact.<\/p>\n

3. Pan-Canadian Competency, Credit and Credential Recognition, Transfer & Mobility<\/strong> (Confederation III)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nAnn-Marie Vaughn<\/strong>, Humber Polytechnic
\nVanessa Sheane<\/strong>, Northwestern Polytechnic
\nSandy MacDonald<\/strong>, Holland College
\nEnhancing student and worker mobility across provinces and territories is key to improving internal trade, ensuring a seamless, national approach to skills development and workforce participation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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11:45 – 12:00<\/em><\/div>\n
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Networking Break<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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12:00 – 13:30<\/em><\/div>\n
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Keynote Address & Lunch: Go-Time: Meeting Canada\u2019s Moment through Strategic Workforce Development<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Speaker:<\/div>\n
Candace Laing, President & CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Candace will provide her current read of the geopolitical, demographic and technological headwinds we are facing and the economic pivot needed in our country. This is Canada\u2019s moment and nothing short of bold action is required to accelerate resource development, build critical infrastructure, and support internal trade and mobility. She will also share her thoughts on the shared strengths and ambitions of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and CICan that can help Canada reimagine and implement a robust vision for economic security and resilience.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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13:30 – 14:15<\/em><\/div>\n
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Strategic Action Tables \u2013 Showcasing Scalable Solutions<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Building on the morning\u2019s discussions, participants will explore scalable solutions driving transformation in key priority areas. Leaders and partners implementing these solutions will share their approaches, lessons learned, and opportunities for broader adoption.<\/p>\n

1. Military Connected Campuses <\/strong>(Confederation I)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nPeter Devlin<\/strong>, Fanshawe College
\nDon Bureaux<\/strong>, Nova Scotia Community College
\nKevin Weaver<\/strong>, Georgian College
\nDarlene O’Neill<\/strong>, Fanshawe College
\nColleges have a significant opportunity to offer certified training for high-demand occupations within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).Colleges can also play a key role in supporting those leaving the armed forces and their families reintegrate into civilian life with the aid of government subsidized study. The CAF’s interest in rebuilding ties with educational institutions and exploring new recruitment pathways presents a mutually beneficial opportunity for increased enrollment and collaboration in educating future military personnel. With a number of colleges already operating as Military Connected Campuses, how can we build a pan-Canadian network as Canada seeks to build up its defense and national security capabilities?<\/p>\n

2. Digital Campus Canada <\/strong>(Confederation II)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nRobert Luke<\/strong>, eCampusOntario
\nCarley McDougall<\/strong>, Campus Manitoba
\nLindsay Engel<\/strong>, Red Deer Polytechnic
\nThe digital learning landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by AI and other tools, scaling of open education resources and a commitment to digital-first learner-centred accessibility and relevance. Presenters will provide insights on how AI is transforming education anddiscuss strategies for building sustainable digital learning ecosystems that support future-ready graduates. As Canada seeks to boost productivity in our workers and our SMEs via upskilling and derisking technology uptake, how can our sector become a central part of the solution?<\/p>\n

3. Atlantic Credential Evaluation (ACE) <\/strong>(Confederation III)<\/em>
\nPresenters: <\/em>
\nPierre Zundel<\/strong>, Coll\u00e8ge communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick
\nMary Butler<\/strong>, New Brunswick community College
\nAnn Drennan<\/strong>, Loyalist College
\nDiane S\u00e9n\u00e9chal<\/strong>, Coll\u00e8ge communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick
\nACE is transforming skill assessment by focusing on competencies, leveraging technology, and expanding access. Led by Atlantic Colleges Atlantique (ACA), this modernized and innovative approach streamlines learning pathways, enhances labour mobility, and helps businesses access a skilled workforce. As Canada seeks to bring down internal trade and labour mobility barriers, how can we scale this beyond the Atlantic region?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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14:15 – 15:15<\/em><\/div>\n
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Strategic Action Tables \u2013 Turning Insights into Action and Building \u201cCoalitions of the Willing\u201d<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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After exploring scalable solutions, participants will remain in the same breakout rooms and split into two groups for working sessions to discuss actionable next steps – either exploring how to adopt and scale an existing solution or brainstorming new approaches., all with an eye on how CICan can support.<\/p>\n

Workshop Option A: Scaling a Solution<\/strong>
\nInterested in getting involved and adopting one of the solutions you\u2019ve just heard about? Sit down with its presenters to discuss collaboration, partnership and implementation at your institution. With guidance from a CICan moderator, the group will explore potential roadblocks, opportunities for adaptation, and coalition-building strategies for scaling impact.<\/p>\n

Workshop Option B: Building a New Approach<\/strong>
\nIf none of the featured solutions align with your institution\u2019s needs, or if you have another promising idea, join a brainstorming table. Led by a CICan moderator, these discussions will focus on developing new, tangible, and actionable solutions to shared challenges. A record of key takeaways will be compiled and shared on the final day of the Summit, informing future Presidents Circle<\/a> discussions, CICan advocacy and program development on behalf of members, and other sector-wide initiatives.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
15:15 – 15:30<\/em><\/div>\n
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Networking Break<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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15:30 – 17:00<\/em><\/div>\n
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Keynote Address:Oren Cass, Chief Economist, American Compass \u2013 The Once and Future Worker<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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A leading voice on U.S. economic policy and author of the influential book, The Once and Future Worker, Oren will examine how tectonic shifts in U.S. economic strategies to reshore production are shaping labour, immigration and post-secondary education policy in the United States.<\/p>\n

Respondent Panel:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Sean Speer<\/strong> \u2013 Editor-at-Large, The Hub
\nSean Speer is the editor-at-large at The Hub and a senior fellow at Carleton University and the University of Toronto\u2019s Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. He previously served as a senior economic adviser to Prime Minister Stephen Harper.<\/p>\n

Chris Gardner<\/strong>, President & CEO, Independent Contractors and Business Association (ICBA)
\nChris Gardner has led ICBA since 2017, winning the Reed Award for best trade association in 2019 and 2021. Previously, he held senior roles at Civeo and Britco and served as principal secretary to British Columbia Premier Christy Clark.<\/p>\n

Jennifer Ditchburn<\/strong>, President & CEO, Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP)
\nJennifer Ditchburn is an executive and communicator focused on making public policy issues more accessible to Canadians. She was Editor-in-Chief of Policy Options from 2016-2021 and has over 20 years of experience in national journalism. Jennifer has won multiple awards, including three National Newspaper Awards, and was named one of the 10 most influential Hispanic Canadians in 2015.<\/p>\n

With Pari Johnston moderating, panelists will reflect on Oren Cass\u2019s insights and what they could mean for Canada. They will discuss the economic forces shaping our country right now and explore implications for Canada\u2019s industrial and workforce development strategy and the role and response by our post-secondary sector.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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17:00 – 18:30<\/em><\/div>\n
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Personal Break<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Use this time to connect with colleagues, prepare for the evening program, or take a moment to get outside and unwind.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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18:30 – 21:00<\/em><\/div>\n
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Networking Dinner with Food Stations: Celebrating Leadership and Excellence<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the remarkable contributions of outstanding individuals! Tonight, we honour Paul and Gerri Charette for their outstanding generosity and commitment to student success in our system through their bursary program. We will also recognize Alain Roy, CICan\u2019s newly retired Vice-President of Programs and Partnerships, and Anna Toneguzzo, Vice-President, External and Member Relations, who will retire in August. Their dedication and impact on our sector have been nothing short of extraordinary, and we can\u2019t wait to honor their achievements. Enjoy a delicious selection of food stations while mingling with peers and raising a glass to leadership, excellence, and a bright future ahead!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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24<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

April 24, 2025<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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7:00 – 8:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Buffet Breakfast<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
8:00 – 10:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
CICan of the Future: Member Engagement Session<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Facilitated by: Myriane Ouellette, O Strategies<\/div>\n
Building on our online regional consultations, an interactive consultation session where CICan will engage participants in shaping the organization\u2019s future beyond 2026. Your insights and input will help guide CICan\u2019s strategic directions in the years to come to ensure we remain agile, focused and member aligned.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
10:00 – 10:15<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Networking Break<\/div>\n
(Confederation Foyer)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
10:15 – 11:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Meeting Canada\u2019s Moment: Taking Strategic Actions for System Transformation<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Building on the insights and discussions from the previous day\u2019s breakout sessions, this session will outline the next steps to drive system-wide transformation, with a focus on actionable strategies and how CICan can support going forward.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
11:00 – 12:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Political Pundits Panel: Perspectives on Election 2025 and the Evolving Political Landscape<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n

As the federal election approaches its final days, this dynamic discussion will feature political analysts offering deep insights into emerging trends, policy shifts, and strategic advocacy. Learn insights to help you position our sector within Canada\u2019s evolving political landscape and navigate the road ahead.<\/p>\n

Moderator:<\/strong> Ajay Patel, President and CEO of Vancouver Community College<\/p>\n

Panelists:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Kate Harrison<\/strong>, Vice Chair, Summa Strategies
\nKate is a partner at Summa Strategies and an active member of Canada\u2019s conservative movement. With 15 years of experience in government relations and public policy communications, she regularly appears on CBC\u2019s Power & Politics and Canada Talks. She co-chaired Mark Sutcliffe\u2019s mayoral campaign and serves on the Canada Strong and Free Network board.<\/p>\n

Marci Surkes<\/strong>, Chief Strategy Officer, Compass Rose Group
\nMarci Surkes is a 15-year political veteran who has served in senior advisory and policy roles, including as Executive Director of Policy and Cabinet Affairs in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau\u2019s office. She now leads strategy at Compass Rose, advising top-tier clients on federal issues and is recognized as a sharp political strategist and commentator.<\/p>\n

Jordan Leichnitz<\/strong>, Canada Program Manager, Friedrich Ebert Foundation
\nJordan Leichnitz is a political consultant with 20 years of experience in progressive campaigns and strategy at all levels of government. She held senior roles with four federal NDP leaders and now leads the Canada Program at the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung. Jordan is also a regular media commentator and a panelist on The Curse of Politics<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
12:00 – 14:00<\/em><\/div>\n
\n
\n
Election 2025: Open mic session over lunch<\/div>\n
(Confederation I)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Join us for a buffet lunch and exchange with CICan\u2019s CEO, Pari Johnston, and Director of Government Relations, Michael McDonald, on your burning election questions and predictions and learn more about CICan\u2019s post-election plan.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Leaders Summit agenda will feature thought – provoking speakers and interactive plenary sessions. These sessions, along with member – led strategic action tables, are designed to drive system transformation and meet Canada\u2019s moment by addressing key challenges and opportunities within the college and institute sector. Introducing Our Keynote Speakers David Coletto Founder, Chair, and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":433,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-460","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/460","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=460"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/460\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/433"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/events.collegesinstitutes.ca\/forum\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=460"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}