York University endowed with US$250,000 prestigious fellowship from Meta

May 31, 2022

VISTA will propel Canada as a global leader in the vision sciences

Meta has endowed York University with a fellowship of US$250,000. This new endowment establishes the first-ever corporate-sponsored graduate fund for sustaining vision research at York.

The University has chosen to dedicate the fund to its Centre for Vision Research (CVR).

York’s Vice-President of Advancement Susana Gajic-Bruyea remarks, “we are delighted to welcome Meta’s gift in support of graduate students in the field of vision research. Meta’s gift amplifies the groundbreaking work being done here at York University while signalling the importance of support for the ever-growing field of vision sciences. Meta’s gift follows on the heels of their announcement of their investment to the expanding VR (virtual reality) and tech sectors here in the GTA. This gift is the University’s first endowed graduate fellowship in vision sciences funded by a corporation, and we look forward to welcoming more leaders to partner and grow with us.”

The CVR continues to play a leading role in vision research for decades by undertaking groundbreaking studies in a variety of fields from 3D displays to computer vision to cognitive neuroscience to multisensory integration. The CVR training programs offer unique, hands-on opportunities and a collaborative environment that facilitates students’ research efforts by providing access to a variety of neuroimaging tools (structural and functional MRI, EEG, TMS). Fundamental research that merges techniques in human psychophysics, visual neuroscience, computer vision and computational theory is supported by innovative facilities from a 3T fMRI scanner to a wide array of visuo-robotic platforms. 

The CVR has named the fund in honour of Kevin MacKenzie, with the support of family and his colleagues. MacKenzie is a York alumnus and Meta employee who passed away Aug. 25, 2021. The fellowship is a way to acknowledge the innovative work in vision research at York University undertaken by the CVR and remember MacKenzie.

The York alumnus received his PhD in psychology from CVR. His graduate research focused on depth perception, specifically how the human visual system integrates information from stereopsis and motion to define surfaces in depth.

“Kevin enjoyed the challenges of scientific inquiry and did not back down from difficult problems. He also loved the comradery of working with a team and was an enthusiastic participant in outings, and events – he was the life of the party and a solid friend to those who knew him,” recalls Department of Psychology Professor Laurie Wilcox, who was MacKenzie’s MA and PhD supervisor.

MacKenzie went on to several careers, most recently with Meta Reality Labs where he was working as the lead research scientist of the Applied Perception Sciences team, focusing on vision research involving augmented reality and virtual reality. Throughout his time working in the industry, MacKenzie was a great supporter of individual research labs and the vision science community through the Vision Sciences Society.

Robert Allison, a professor at York University’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering as well as director of the CVR, worked in the same area and was MacKenzie’s close colleague during his time at the CVR. Allison says, “This generous fellowship will allow students to work at the forefront of vision research and its applications under the guidance of the world-class researchers at York’s Centre for Vision Research.”

The fund will also contribute to the broader intellectual community at the University and provide leadership in the VISTA program, the interdisciplinary Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) funded Vision: Science to Applications program. VISTA’s work is dedicated to advancing vision science through computational and biological research perspectives that result in real-world applications.  Scholars who participate in the program are involved in the production of patents, inventions, licences and companies that positively impact industry, health care and society.

In collaboration with over 50 academic, public and for-profit partners from around the world, VISTA aims to integrate visual neuroscience with computer vision to drive innovation and propel Canada forward as a global leader in the vision sciences. This donation provides additional opportunities for future researchers who will contribute to progressive discoveries. More graduate students interested in vision science and its applications will be able to benefit from getting involved in the space where cutting-edge research is created.

“Vision Science is moving increasingly towards an era of integration and real-world application,” stated Wilcox. “In addition to supporting individual talented junior scientists this fund will help advance the quality and scope of their research endeavours,” adds Allison.

For more information on the globally impactful research performed at York visit the CVR and VISTA’s program sites.

Staff volunteers needed for Spring Convocation at York University

May 17, 2022

University Events & Ceremonies office is responsible for overseeing the planning and logistics for York’s Convocation ceremonies. In order to make these ceremonies memorable for graduates and their guests, the University relies on a caring team of volunteers who work in various roles.

Planning for Spring Convocation 2022 is well underway and the organizers of this year’s convocation are seeking staff volunteers to a part of the team that is responsible for making the ceremonies a memorable experience for all of York attendees. It is truly a rewarding experience and offers volunteers an opportunity to support students as they cross the stage and become University alumni.

On Friday, May 27, at 10 a.m., there will be onsite training for volunteers to become convocation key coordinators. The training will take place at the Sobeys Stadium (formerly known as the Aviva Centre). The training will be led by the University’s Events & Ceremonies staff and experienced convocation key coordinators.

On Convocation ceremony days, volunteers are provided with a light lunch, as well as snacks and coffee.

Volunteers should review the convocation ceremony schedule for 2022 graduates and the additional ceremonies for 2020 and 2021 alumni, and then submit their availability to Spring Convocation 2022 – CKC Volunteers (yorku.ca)

Supporting students in times of crisis

April 29, 2022

York University is launching a fundraising campaign to establish the York Emergency Student Support Fund, which will provide essential financial support to those impacted by global conflicts and crises.

York University is an exceptionally diverse community, with students and scholars from around the world. Consequently, current and prospective members of the university community may be impacted by global conflicts and crises in several ways, including but not limited to involuntary displacement, destruction of homes, and loss of work.

With this in mind, York is launching a fundraising campaign to establish the York Emergency Student Support Fund, which will provide essential financial support to those impacted by global conflicts and crises.

“York is a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment that delivers superior student support and services,” says Susana Gajic-Bruyea, vice-president advancement. “When situations arise that put students at risk or in any kind of jeopardy, York endeavours to support them in many ways, including financially. Our goal with this fund is to enhance the financial support available to students when they need it most.”

The fund will help support students affected by conflicts, such as the ones currently happening in Afghanistan, Ukraine and Syria, natural disasters, and other geopolitical events and crises. Specific criteria will be available once the fund is established.

“The York Emergency Student Support Fund will provide essential support to these students on an as-needed basis,” says Gajic-Bruyea. “With the support of donors, the fund will help ensure the most at-risk and affected students can pursue or continue their education safely and with much-needed financial support.”

To find out more about the fund, or to make a donation, visit the website.

Existing supports remain in place for students affected by international crises, including but not limited to:

Financial Supports: including bursaries and tuition deferrals;
Mental Health Supports: York’s Student Counselling, Health and Well-Being office has counsellors and group supports available for students seeking mental health resources. For support in the evenings, on weekends, or anytime, all York students have access to KeepMeSafe, a free 24/7 service that offers online resources and supports as well as a phone line to connect to a mental health professional in their region;
Academic Advising: Academic Advisors are available to answer student questions about courses, exam deferrals, leaves of absence (e.g. for supporting family, health reasons, etc.), or anything related to their study; and
Visa and Immigration: International Student Advisor and Immigration Specialists are available to help answer immigration, visa, and study permit–related questions.

$3.12M in renewed support for York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace

April 19, 2022

Cinespace Featured image shows a series of posters highlighting films

As Dean of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design (AMPD), Sarah Bay-Cheng knows the importance of an empty stage.

“An empty stage is beautiful because no choices have been made yet,” said Bay-Cheng. “That’s when everything is possible. Every idea is possible. Every dream is possible.”

That’s what students see when they walk into the York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace.

This week, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton announced a new commitment from Cinespace Film Studios that will see $3.12 million invested to enhance the York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace and elevate the student experience.

“Over the past two years – as change has accelerated around us and new global challenges have emerged – we have witnessed just how powerful artistic expression can be in generating new knowledge, ideas, and cultural artifacts that expand our understanding of the world, enrich the experiences of the communities we serve, and drive positive change both locally and globally,” said Lenton. “Cinespace’s generous new donation means that each student who has access to this studio will continue to have the opportunity to develop a creative voice, contribute to our collective cultural history, and affect positive change.”

From left to right: Associate Director, Motion Media Studio at Cinespace and AMPD Assistant Professor Ingrid Veninger; York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton; President and co-managing partner of Cinespace Film Studios Ashley Rice; Director of the York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace and AMPD Assistant Professor Kenneth Rogers; AMPD Dean Sarah Bay-Cheng — From left to right: Associate Director, Motion Media Studio at Cinespace and AMPD Assistant Professor Ingrid Veninger; York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton; President and co-managing partner of Cinespace Film Studios Ashley Rice; Director of the York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace and AMPD Associate Professor Kenneth Rogers; AMPD Dean Sarah Bay-Cheng

With Toronto’s multi-billion-dollar film, television and digital media industry set to grow significantly in the near future, the Motion Media Studio will serve as an incubator for diverse talent development, hands-on training, industry partnerships, community engagement, and research excellence within burgeoning media production facilities and mixed reality spaces.

The Motion Media Studio – established by Cinespace Film Studios (currently owned by TPG Real Estate Partners) and the Mirkopoulos Family in 2016 – is located in the heart of Cinespace in the GTA’s west end.

Jim Mirkopoulos, whose family was instrumental in establishing the initial commitment from Cinespace, knows the importance of providing the next generation of talent with the space to experiment and learn by doing.

“Since the pandemic, we have experienced increased demand for content, and content production,” said Mirkopoulos. “One of the key investments we can make in supporting our industry is to support its emerging talent and its next leaders.”

Ashley Rice, the new president and co-managing partner of Cinespace Film Studios, is ready to focus on the future. For Rice, the future lies with the next generation of talent in film, television and digital media.

“Giving back to the community has always been a part of Cinespace’s DNA, and when my partners and I took over leadership at Cinespace, we knew we wanted to keep that core tenet alive,” said Rice. “We believe there is a space for every emerging leader in film, television and digital media, and we hope this donation will empower students to take advantage of the opportunities at the York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace to learn and create.”

Students will continue to benefit from hands-on learning in Toronto’s booming film-and-television production industry

This renewed support for the Motion Media Studio will enable access to state-of-the-art technology, such as markerless motion-performance capture; augmented reality, virtual reality, immersive environments and motion simulation; and more. Students will also find production process support, a suite of digital post-production equipment, and high-performance computing technology.

Most importantly, in this space, students will have the opportunity to interact with industry leaders and a network of support as they embark on their careers in film, television and digital media.

“The York University Motion Media Studio at Cinespace has offered our students unparalleled access to experiential learning opportunities, hands-on training in new media technologies, and direct exposure to industry professionals – experiences that will position them to lead in a competitive global economy that is increasingly affected by emerging technologies, digital innovation and artificial intelligence,” said Lenton.

Toronto Mayor John Tory sees the importance of partnerships like the one between York and Cinespace in supporting emerging talent in Toronto’s growing film, television and digital media industry.

“This continued partnership between York University and Cinespace Film Studio will give students access to incredible technology, as well as access to some of the industry’s greatest talents. Our film and TV sector is growing and thriving and to ensure that we can keep up with the demand, we must foster and cultivate new talent across the city. Beyond that, a space like this will help bolster our local economy by infusing the film, television and digital media industry with home-grown talent – this is good for our city and good for our residents. Thank you to York University and Cinespace for partnering together to remove barriers to access and for investing in students eager to take on the industry,” said Tory.

Bay-Cheng added, “With Cinespace’s support, we will fuel the future of storytelling by supporting student success, connecting the next generation of media talent to industry career opportunities, and sharing the diverse stories of these creators with global audiences.”

York University announces 2022’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30

April 3, 2022

La version française suit la version anglaise.

The 30 outstanding graduates, including author Kaleb Dahlgren and Olympian Melissa Humana-Paredes, are working to right the future in a variety of fields and highlight the many career and life paths made possible with a York degree.

York University has announced its list of Top 30 Alumni Under 30. The remarkable group of civically engaged young leaders are tackling complex societal challenges in a world facing a convergence of unprecedented trials, all before the age of 30.

“York’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program aims to recognize inspiring young alumni who are working to right the future in varied and significant ways,” says Julie Lafford, executive director, Alumni Engagement. “From business leaders championing equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, to social entrepreneurs, environmental advocates and community builders, alumni across all sectors are making meaningful differences in their communities and beyond.”

Representing every Faculty at the University, these alumni are applying the education, skills and experiences they received at York to meaningful careers and community service endeavours demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the public good.

Alamgir Khandwala

“I am honoured and humbled to be selected for this award and recognition,” says Alamgir Khandwala (BAS ’17), manager, Corporate Accounting and Financial Reporting at Moneris. Through his significant volunteer work, Khandwala advocates for underprivileged communities and advances equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives to help create an equitable and sustainable future. “Meeting the rest of the cohort and learning about the amazing work they are doing in their respective communities has helped me revive my passion for continuously making an impact at every opportunity possible, whether it be one person, or thousands of people around the world.”

Launched in 2021, York’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program seeks to highlight the success and diversity of the University’s alumni community, while inspiring the next generation of young alumni leaders to make a positive difference locally and globally.

For more information on the 2022 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, visit the website.

L’Université York annonce les 30 meilleurs diplômés de moins de 30 ans pour 2022

Les 30 diplômés exceptionnels, dont font partie l’auteur Kaleb Dahlgren et l’athlète olympique Melissa Humana-Paredes, s’emploient à être présents pour l’avenir dans des domaines variés. Ils et elles mettent en évidence les nombreux parcours de carrière et de vie rendus possibles par l’obtention d’un diplôme à York.

L’Université York annonce sa liste des 30 meilleurs diplômés de moins de 30 ans. Ce groupe remarquable de jeunes leaders engagés civiquement s’attaque à des défis sociétaux complexes dans un monde confronté à une convergence d’épreuves sans précédent, tout cela dans la vingtaine.

« Le programme des 30 meilleurs diplômés de York de moins de 30 ans vise à reconnaître les jeunes diplômées et diplômés inspirants qui s’efforcent d’être présents pour l’avenir de façons diverses et concrètes », déclare Julie Lafford, directrice générale des relations avec les diplômés. « Des chefs d’entreprise qui défendent l’équité, la diversité et l’inclusion sur le lieu de travail, aux entrepreneuses sociales, en passant par les défenseurs de l’environnement et les bâtisseuses de communautés, les diplômés et diplômées de tous les secteurs apportent une différence dans leurs communautés et au-delà. »

Représentant toutes les facultés de l’Université, ces diplômés et diplômées appliquent l’éducation, les compétences et les expériences acquises à York à des carrières intéressantes et à des projets de service communautaire démontrant un engagement de longue date envers le bien collectif.

Alamgir Khandwala

« C’est un honneur pour moi d’avoir été sélectionné pour ce prix et cette reconnaissance, que je reçois avec humilité », a déclaré Alamgir Khandwala (B.A.S. 2017), directeur, comptabilité d’entreprise et rapports financiers chez Moneris. Grâce à son importante contribution bénévole, M. Khandwala défend les communautés défavorisées et fait avancer les initiatives d’EDI pour créer un avenir équitable et durable. « Rencontrer le reste de la cohorte et découvrir le travail extraordinaire qu’elle accomplit dans ses communautés respectives a ravivé ma passion pour changer les choses à chaque occasion qui se présente, qu’il s’agisse d’une personne ou de milliers de personnes dans le monde. »

Lancé en 2021, le programme des 30 meilleurs diplômés de moins de 30 ans de York vise à mettre en évidence le succès et la diversité de la communauté des jeunes diplômés de l’Université, tout en inspirant la prochaine génération de leaders à agir concrètement au niveau local et mondial.

Pour plus d’information sur le palmarès 2022 des 30 meilleurs diplômés de moins de 30 ans, visitez le site Web.

York Cares United Way Campaign surpasses goal, raises over $183,000

January 28, 2022

Each year, the York University community engages in the York Cares United Way Campaign to raise funds to help vulnerable members of the community facing crisis. The 2021 campaign, which ran from Oct. 26 to Nov. 30, was a success bringing in more than $183,000.

United Way is committed to supporting residents so they can come together to improve the well-being of their neighbourhood. (Photo courtesy of United Way

Faculty, staff and students came together to support the campaign, surpassing the $150,000 goal, and showcasing York’s commitment to creating positive change for its students and local communities.

York members responded to the call to right the future with overwhelming support, and participated in GetUP – United Way’s virtual physical challenge, tried the MaketheMonth.ca online poverty simulation tool, and used their personalized links to the pledge form to donate.

Dedicated staff worked together to plan and make this campaign possible. The 2021 York Cares United Way Campaign Committee, Division of Advancement’s Caterina Elzbet and Nadia Dar engaged many volunteers across the University and were assisted by the following staff: Stephen Childs, Karen Furlong, Tien Do-Ky, Alexandra Lucchesi, Ashley Goodfellow Craig, Vanessa Thompson, Ayesha Amanulla, Mario So Gao, Caitlin Drake Smith, Marion Frankian, Isabelle Montagnier, Johanne Roberge, Sue Bulof, Sharon Elliot, Vina Sandher, Lyna Truong, Donna Cope, Meaghan Morris, Mike Kasaboski, Scott Labron, Amal Awini, Farah Rafiq, and 30 executive assistants across the University who engaged their teams.

“On behalf of the York Cares United Way Campaign Committee, thank you York University for supporting our local communities,” said Elzbet. “We are truly a community of changemakers.”

Funds raised during the campaign were directed to United Way Greater Toronto in support of social services and organizations in Peel, Toronto, and York Region, some of which directly impact York community members.

To see the change made possible by supporting United Way Greater Toronto, visit the Alumni and Friends York Cares website.

27 York community members invested to the Order of Canada

January 16, 2022

Order of canada medal laid out on black background

Twenty-seven individuals with connections to York University are among the 135 new appointments to the Order of Canada, announced Dec. 29, 2021, by Governor General of Canada Mary Simon.

The new member list includes one Companion (C.C.), nine Officers (O.C.) and 17 Members (C.M.). The Order of Canada is one of the highest honours awarded to Canadian citizens. Created in 1967, it recognizes people whose service shapes society, whose innovations ignite imaginations and whose compassion unites communities.

Companions of the Order of Canada

The Honourable Murray Sinclair, C.C., M.S.C. – honorary alumnus
For his commitment to the representation of Indigenous legal issues, and for his dedication to reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

Officers of the Order of Canada

Neil Devindra Bissoondath, O.C., C.Q. – alumnus, honorary alumnus
For his contributions to Canadian literature through his groundbreaking examinations of multiculturalism and diversity.

Evelyn L. Forget, O.C. – alumna, donor
For advancing anti-poverty initiatives in Canada and around the world as a leading health economics researcher.

Victoria Grant, O.C. – alumna, donor
For bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous culture, business and communities through her facilitation and mediation.

Frances Henry, O.C. – professor emerita, donor
For her groundbreaking contributions to the study of racism in contemporary democratic society.

Edward J. Ratushny, O.C., O.Ont., Q.C. – donor
For his contributions to the field of administrative law, and for his leadership in sports arbitration and law.
This is a promotion within the Order of Canada.

Helga Stephenson, O.C., O.Ont. – former staff
For her enduring contributions to Canadian film and television as a leader, advocate and ambassador.

Angela Swan, O.C. – adjunct professor
For her long-standing contributions to the legal profession, particularly in the area of contract law, as a professor, lawyer, author and mentor.

Carol M. Tator, O.C. – faculty, donor
For her advocacy of social justice, and for her commitment to identifying and dismantling systemic racism in Canadian society.

Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, O.C. – alumna, honorary alumna, donor
For her ongoing commitment to improving the child welfare system and supports for Indigenous people in British Columbia.

Members of the Order of Canada

Harold Bassford, C.M. – former dean, donor
For his leadership as a university administrator and for his contributions to applied ethics in the health field.

Ann Buller, C.M. – alumna, donor
For her lifelong dedication and commitment to post-secondary education and to improving the lives of others through learning.

The Honourable Sandra Chapnik, C.M., O.Ont. – alumna, donor
For her leadership in the community and in the legal sector, where she has promoted the advancement of women and encouraged best practices in the field.

Max T. Eisen, C.M. – donor
For his contributions to Holocaust education, and for his promotion of transformational dialogue on human rights, tolerance and respect.

Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl, C.M. – alumnus, donor
For his spiritual and community leadership as head of the Beth Tzedec Synagogue in Toronto, and for fostering interfaith dialogue throughout Canada and beyond.

Janice R. Fukakusa, C.M. – alumna, honorary alumna, donor, Schulich School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council member
For her leadership and mentorship in banking, and for her boundless community engagement, notably in education and health care.

Leo Joel Goldhar, C.M. – donor
For his philanthropic contributions to health care, education and social services, notably as chair of the United Jewish Appeal Federation’s Tomorrow Campaign.

William Arthur Humber, C.M. – alumnus
For his contributions as Canada’s premier baseball historian, who has highlighted the key ways in which the sport’s history is linked to our nation.

Lawson A. W. Hunter, C.M., Q.C. – donor
For his distinguished career in government, business and private practice as one of the country’s leading competition and antitrust lawyers.

Barbara Landau, C.M. – alumna, donor
For her contributions to dispute resolution and family law reform as both a psychologist and lawyer, and for her advocacy of interfaith initiatives.

Nona Macdonald Heaslip, C.M. – donor
For her ongoing philanthropic contributions to the Canadian arts sector and for supporting numerous academic scholarships across the country.

Robin Poitras, C.M. – alumna
For her creative contributions to contemporary dance in Canada, and for her leadership as artistic director of New Dance Horizons.

Lynn Posluns, C.M. – honorary alumna
For her contributions to research on women’s cognitive health and aging through the founding of Women’s Brain Health Initiative.

Robert Small, C.M. – alumnus
For his long-standing commitment to highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of Black people in all sectors of Canadian society.

Harriet H. Stairs, C.M. – donor
For advancing women’s opportunities within the financial sector, and for creating equitable and inclusive policies within corporate and community-based initiatives.

George M. Thomson, C.M. – donor
For his contributions to family law in Canada, and for his innovative leadership as a judicial educator and mentor.

Janet Walker, C.M., C.D. – faculty, alumna, donor
For her expert legal authority in commercial arbitration and conflict of laws, and for advancing legal procedural standards in Canada.

Since its inception, more than 7,500 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order of Canada. Appointees to the Order of Canada wear a striking, six-point white enamel insignia that symbolizes Canada’s northern heritage and diversity. Recipients will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony to be held at a future date. The full list of appointees can be viewed here.

Year in Review 2021: Top headlines for York University, September to December

January 12, 2022

As a new year emerges, YFile takes a look back on 2021 to share with readers a snapshot of the year’s highlights. “Year in Review” will run as a three-part series and will feature a selection of top news stories published in YFile. Here are the stories and highlights for September to December, as chosen by YFile editors.

September

An image of a woman with a laptop that shows the YFile website — *YFile* marked a major milestone in its 19-year history with the debut of a lively new website and newsletter in September

Welcome to the new and improved YFile
York University’s journal of record, YFile, marked a major milestone in its 19-year history with the debut of a lively new website and newsletter. Both feature a modern design, improved functionality and an enhanced experience for the York University community.

York University’s groundbreaking Academic Innovation Fund turns 10
York University’s Academic Innovation Fund celebrated an important anniversary in 2021. The program has promoted exceptional innovation in teaching, learning and the student experience, and it continues to grow and thrive.

New partnership to advance fight against global financial crime and support equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM
Funding from Scotiabank provided $980,000 to support critical research into global financial crimes and security. It is named the Scotiabank Lassonde Financial Crimes Research Initiative and supports research into global financial crimes and computer security, while also providing support for programs that advance equity, diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

The Royal Society of Canada elects five York professors into its ranks
Faculty members elected included: Philip Girard, a professor at Osgoode Hall Law School; Jennifer Hyndman, associate vice-president research and a professor in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change and the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS); Michele Johnson, associate dean of students and a history professor in LA&PS; and Christina Petrowska Quilico, a music professor in the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design. Appointed to the RSC College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists is Jane Heffernan, a professor of mathematics and statistics in the Faculty of Science.

October

UNESCO Chair Charles Hopkins recognized with lifetime achievement award
York University’s UNESCO Chair Charles Hopkins was the recipient of the Clean50 Lifetime Achievement Award for his work on a global scale to reorient education towards sustainable development. This prestigious award recognized Hopkins’ focus on creating a better future for all.

York University launches first-of-its-kind initiative to address barriers for Black youth across Canada
The national, pan-University program is backed by $1.2 million from the RBC Foundation as part of RBC Future Launch. The initiative is led by Professor Carl E. James, the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora in the Faculty of Education.

Announcement of deputy provost, Markham Campus
Following an extensive search the University announced that Gordon Binsted will take on the role of deputy provost Markham for a five-year term, commencing Jan. 1, 2022. The York community also learned about updates to the Markham Campus and how the Markham Campus building was starting to take shape.

Daughters for Life Scholarships offer women life-changing opportunities
Four young women who received the Daughters for Life Scholarships reflect on their journey to York University and how their studies position them to be future changemakers.

November

York U Class of 2021: A pandemic can’t keep this Tamil grandma from graduating
Varathaledchumy Shanmuganathan, known as Varatha, was among the more than 4,000 resilient students, some young enough to be her grandchildren, who celebrated their graduation during York University’s virtual fall convocation on Nov. 2.

Planting the seeds for a better tomorrow
The actions of Sovann Muon and the Grounds Maintenance team at the Glendon Campus show that with passion, innovation and just a seed of an idea, anything can grow.

York University and Oak Valley Health to advance medical education and health research in York and Durham regions
York University and Oak Valley Heath announced a local health partnership aimed at advancing innovative medical education and research collaboration opportunities as well as improving the health and health care of citizens in Markham, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Uxbridge and beyond.

Lassonde professor advances research in predicting cancer treatment outcomes
The quantitative MRI biomarker developed in this project led by Lassonde School of Engineering Professor Ali Sadeghi-Naini can predict whether a patient’s tumor is likely to be controlled by stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) or if the treatment is likely to fail.

Building future pathways for nursing education
The launch of York University’s new stand-alone four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree was announced. The new program builds on Ontario’s recent changes allowing both publicly assisted colleges and universities to offer a baccalaureate degree in nursing to increase opportunities for students to access a high-quality education.

December

York invests more than $3.5M to support interdisciplinary research clusters
York University will fund new and groundbreaking research through the Catalyzing Interdisciplinary Research Clusters (CIRC) program. Seven proposals will receive $150,000 per year over three years. An additional six other proposals will receive $75,000 for one year.

Announcing York University’s Action Plan on Black Inclusion
York University launched its Action Plan on Black Inclusion: A Living Document for Action. The document outlines a series of strong and accountable commitments and is informed by input received from the community.

DARE research project continues into grad studies for sociology student
An undergraduate summer research project selected for the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies’ (LA&PS) Dean’s Award for Research Excellence (DARE) program in 2020, has shown that mentorship between faculty and students can have a long-lasting impact.

York University scientist helps build instrument on new James Webb Space Telescope
The state-of-the-art telescope is the result of a collaboration between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency and is the most powerful telescope ever built and there is an expert research connection with Associate Professor Adam Muzzin of the Faculty of Science.

This concludes YFile‘s Year in Review 2021 series. To see part one, January to April, go here. To see part two, May to August, go here.

Make your donation to York before Dec. 31 for 2021 tax receipt

December 19, 2021

Though the year is quickly coming to a close, there is still time to join the hundreds of faculty, staff and retirees who have already made their 2021 donation. Thank you to all of you who have chosen to create positive change at York University this year.

Together, we are a community of changemakers who have adapted, innovated and persevered through the many challenges created by COVID-19. Our faculty, staff and students continue to pursue academic, research and professional excellence while always looking out for one another, our friends and families.

Advancement staff are preparing for a well-deserved break over the holidays. Our office will be closed from Friday, Dec. 24 to Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022. While our office is closed, you can make your donation in two ways:

By visiting our online donation page;
By telephone at 416-650-8210

To ensure you receive a 2021 tax receipt for your donation, take note of the following requirements:

Donations must be received on or before Dec. 31, 2021, with the cheque or credit card authorization dated Dec. 31, or earlier. This includes donations made online and by telephone.
Mailed donations can be received in January 2022 but must have a valid postmark of Dec. 31, or earlier.
Cheques must be made payable to York University.

Note to faculty and staff receiving donations in their departments:

Forward any gifts received in your departments to Advancement Services (located at the West Office Building on York’s Keele Campus) by noon on Thursday, Dec. 23 to ensure timely processing and receipting. If you are expecting a credit card donation over the closure period, please direct the donor to the online donation page.

To have a receipted for 2021, all cheques must be accompanied with the original envelope.

Thank you to all of you who have already chosen to create positive change at York University this year. Happy Holidays from the York University Division of Advancement.

York Cares United Way campaign extended to Dec. 10

December 5, 2021

Staff and faculty have raised an impressive amount for the campaign – more than $125,000 through pledge forms and by participating in the GetUP virtual physical challenge – but help is still needed to reach the fundraising goal of $150,000.

Members of the York University community can show support for our community by supporting United Way’s neighbourhood-strengthening work across the GTA. (Photo courtesy of United Way)

The 2021 York Cares United Way Campaign has been extended to Dec. 10.

Staff and faculty have raised an impressive amount for the campaign – more than $125,000 through pledge forms and by participating in the GetUP virtual physical challenge. However, more help is needed to reach the fundraising goal of $150,000 to support the United Way Greater Toronto in funding local organizations that make a difference in the lives of friends, families, neighbours, students and colleagues. York University is a community of changemakers committed to creating a positive change for our students, our communities and the world around us. Everyone is encouraged to participate and make every dollar count.

A personalized link to the pledge form will be sent today, and again in a final email Dec. 10. The last day to donate by payroll is Dec. 10, but credit card donations can be made towards the campaign until Dec. 31.

Your donation will:

Provide flexible funding to community services so they can respond quickly to emerging needs.
Ensure basic needs – such as food, shelter and employment – are accessible.
Help vulnerable people find shelter and stay housed.
Help residents in their efforts to support and strengthen their neighbourhoods.
Get people working again, including youth.

York University is home to 7,497 staff and faculty. Below is a breakdown of the top five groups with highest dollars raised and highest participation rates so far. Note that some Faculties and groups are larger than others.

Top five groups with highest dollars raised:

Office of the Dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies – $20,158
Office of the Dean, Faculty of Science – $17,424
Office of the Dean, Faculty of Health – $12,221
Office of the Dean, Schulich School of Business – $11,245
Office of the Vice-Provost Students – $7,046

Top five groups with highest participation rate:

Office of the President – 8.21 per cent
Osgoode Hall Law School – 5.19 per cent
Office of the Vice-President Advancement – 4.65 per cent
Office of the Vice-President Equity, People & Culture – 4.30 per cent
Faculty of Education – 3.37 per cent

For more information and to see stories of people who faced barriers and overcame them, visit https://www.yorku.ca/alumniandfriends/united-way/. Questions and inquiries can be directed to yucares@yorku.ca.

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Tag: Advancement