The structures that dictate how programming at Hart House is developed and managed will undergo administrative changes, effective Nov. 2. Three jobs—the directors of programs, Hart House Theatre, and athletics and farm—will be cut. They will be replaced by two new jobs: a director of program development and director of program administration.

“The administrative change is done with a view to cut out our new vision statement,” said Hart House warden Louise Cowin. In April 2009, the Board of Stewards approved a new vision statement that sees Hart House as “a living laboratory of social, artistic, cultural, and recreational experiences where all voices, rhythms, and traditions converge.”

Cowin said the restructuring is meant to create cohesion across programs, consolidating functions that are currently carried out by separate administrative units. These units—which include the Justina M. Barnicke gallery, the recreation and athletics program, and Hart House Theatre—will be merged into one managing structure. Cowin gave an example where the art gallery and library committee could run exhibitions on themes related to a Hart House Theatre play.

Concerns have been raised over how quickly the decision came about, but staff members declined to comment for this article. The line between the board’s and the warden’s authority is unclear, leading to tension between the two last year. Cowin announced the decision to make structural changes on Oct. 8 during a Board of Stewards meeting. Staff and committee members learned of the changes the next day. Students were not consulted.

The planned changes do not mention student involvement in Hart House. Currently, students hold positions on the board and several committees.

“I asked how student groups would interact with the new people and Cowin said it would happen the same as it had before,” said fourth-year student Sarah Crowther, secretary for the Literary and Library Committee.

“It has created some insecurity, hard feelings, and a lot of rumours. Hopefully the implemented change will be positive,” she added.