The GSA Will Be Closing Mike’s Place Operations For the 2026/2027 Term

The GSA regrets to inform the Carleton community that we will not be operating Mike’s Place Pub this academic year (Fall 2026 and Winter 2027) due to an ongoing financial deficit of the establishment. The GSA also recognizes that student spaces have been facing financial barriers and that the continued rise in the cost of living affects every student studying at Carleton University. This decision was not made lightly and has factored in growing costs towards operations and the realities of running a student pub that is still financially accessible towards student demographics.The GSA firmly believes in financial transparency and understands the need for third spaces on campus. Even with the current Mike’s Place student levy, the financial feasibility of Mike’s Places’ operations continues to drop. Despite multiple efforts at revenue generation by Mike’s Place it is clear that these losses risk the viability of the GSA as an organization. In order to prioritize the current needs of students and not extend the Mike’s Place deficit, this closure will offer an opportunity to reflect and work towards other  student initiatives and supportive services for Carleton graduate students, including potential for more student jobs through other GSA services. 

Concerning opportunities towards graduate student employment and professional development, the GSA intends to continue the expansion of the Grants and Awards program, which already benefits a robust number of graduate students. The GSA will also continue running the Professional Development Grant beyond its pilot program. Highlighting areas for student graduate skills building alongside funding opportunities is essential and  is a continued priority for the GSA executive team.  We understand that in the current economic climate the need to create and support student opportunities are paramount for academic and professional success. 

The GSA also continues its priority of creating third space environments for students that speak towards the growing diversity of the student experience. We are excited to be planning events that embody this sentiment through our upcoming Welcome Weeks 2026 schedule. From cultural nights, Fifa screenings and mental health focused events the GSA looks forward towards building community and connecting graduate students socially addressing the isolation in graduate studies. 

Thank you for your understanding,

GSA Carleton