Press Release
February 26, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Alberta Post-Secondary Network welcomes new Post-Secondary investments in Budget 2026
EDMONTON, Alta. — The Alberta Post-Secondary Network welcomes the Government of Alberta’s new investments in our province’s colleges, polytechnics, and universities.
Budget 2026 provided $148 million in new funding to support 4,000 additional student seats in high demand programs in engineering, healthcare and education. The Budget also allocates a slight top up to operating grants to support rising cost pressures. In addition, several capital projects were supported at institutions. These investments support learner success and help meet the labour force needs of our province. They reflect the importance of post-secondary education as a path to prosperity for Albertans.
“Today’s investments enable our members to continue delivering results for Albertans” says Kevin Shufflebotham, vice-chair of APSN and president & CEO of Medicine Hat College. “Every post-secondary institution in Alberta plays a role in driving a more productive, skilled, and prosperous Alberta, and Budget 2026 supports that critical work.”
The Alberta Post-Secondary Network notes that these investments come at a time of significant fiscal pressure for the province.
“Alberta’s post-secondary sector is critical to the province's continued economic growth and diversification. These investments are a step in the right direction. This Budget recognizes that even in a tough fiscal environment, investments in post-secondary education pay dividends,” says John Alho, Executive Director of the Alberta Post-Secondary Network.
Looking forward, Alberta’s colleges, polytechnics, and universities are ready to work with the Government of Alberta in implementing the recent recommendations of Alberta’s Expert Panel on Post-Secondary Institution Funding and Alberta’s Competitiveness. The report presents a roadmap to unlocking a more innovative, agile and competitive post-secondary system. Now is the time to co-design a system that is ready for tomorrow.
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APSN appoints John Alho as next Executive Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 5, 2026
Alberta Post-Secondary Network appoints John Alho as next executive director
EDMONTON, Alta. — The Alberta Post-Secondary Network (APSN) is pleased to announce the appointment of John Alho as its next executive director, effective Feb. 9, 2026.
Alberta’s post-secondary sector plays a central role in preparing students for the workforce, advancing innovation and conducting future-focused research that strengthens Alberta’s economic resilience. Alho will support Alberta’s colleges, polytechnics and universities, which collectively deliver the skills, training, and innovation capacity the province needs to thrive.
Kevin Shufflebotham, vice-chair of APSN and president & CEO of Medicine Hat College, said Alho’s talent, depth of experience and skill set will be a great asset to advance the goals of the APSN.
“With his strengths in relationship building and expert advocacy, I am confident he will excel in this role,” said Shufflebotham. “His appointment positions our Network for continued success as a vital partner in attaining Alberta’s priorities.”
Alho is looking forward to working closely with APSN’s members. “Alberta’s colleges, polytechnics and universities bring tremendous value to the communities and province they serve,” he said.
“My priority will be working with all the institutions to support a strong, responsive post-secondary system, one that continues to deliver the high-quality education, skills development and research that Alberta relies on.”
Alho brings 30 years of experience in government and the post-secondary sector, most recently at the University of Calgary. Throughout his post-secondary career, he has led government relations, community engagement, marketing and communications portfolios.
He holds an MBA from the University of Manitoba, a BA (Honours) from the University of Winnipeg, and the ICD.D certification from the Institute of Corporate Directors.
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About APSN:
The Alberta Post-Secondary Network is comprised of the presidents of 25 of Alberta’s post-secondary institutions. With a focus on common concerns and shared opportunities, APSN provides a venue for Alberta’s post-secondary leaders to build and strengthen partnerships across the province to the benefit of students, communities, and the province.
For more information, contact:
Chris Beasley, Advisor, Stakeholder and Member Relations
587-357-4244