York makes substantial leap forward in latest QS World University Rankings

Ariel shot of Keele Campus

York University continues to strengthen its global position as a leading research-intensive university as highlighted in the 20th edition of the QS World University Rankings. This year, York climbed more than 100 spots, moving up to 353rd out of 1,500 universities – a 25 per cent improvement in the University’s standing over the past eight years.

“With an unparalleled commitment to creating positive change, York has once again been recognized by the QS World University Rankings for academic and research excellence along with highly valued student outcomes,” said Rhonda Lenton, York University president and vice-chancellor.

According to the QS World University Rankings, this year’s results saw the largest-ever methodological enhancement, introducing three new metrics: Sustainability, Employment Outcomes and International Research Network. The changes were intended to align with evolving student and societal priorities.

This latest ranking news also comes on the heels of York’s impressive results in the 2023 Times Higher Education Impact Ranking and QS’ Subject Report Rankings, both results that were revealed earlier in the year.

York placed in the world’s top 40 universities for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals according to this year’s Impact Rankings released in June. The University achieved an especially strong global standing as a result of University initiatives tied to fighting poverty, reducing inequalities and building more sustainable communities.   

Released in March, the 2023 QS Subject Report Rankings evaluated more than 15,000 programs from 1,594 institutions and York ranked among the top 100 in the world in three subject areas: English language and literature, philosophy, and for the first time, performing arts.

“These latest QS World University Rankings build on York’s positive global momentum. The impressive results are a testament to the high quality, interdisciplinary research, teaching and learning that take place at York,” said Lenton.

Guided by a University Academic Plan that strives to both inspire and deliver positive change, York’s high-quality academic programming continues to position the institution as a leader in post-secondary education in Canada and around the world.

President congratulates Spring Convocation’s Class of 2023

Class of 2023

The following is a message from York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton to the Class of 2023:

To the Class of 2023, my warmest congratulations! It is my privilege and absolute pleasure to congratulate you in marking this major milestone in your life.

Reaching this important stage in your life is no small feat. But I am confident that no matter what path you pursue from here, you have cultivated skills over the last number of years that will contribute to your success.

President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton

It is common for people to talk about the significant global problems facing the world now – climate change, geopolitical tensions, health crises and systemic inequity. These and other disruptors such as automation and artificial intelligence are contributing to the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) of the world today.

York has been responding to these changing conditions to ensure that our students graduate with the knowledge and broad essential skills that they need through, for example, expanded international and Experiential Education (EE) opportunities. Our C4 course, the Cross-Campus Capstone Classroom, provides students with the opportunity to work in interdisciplinary teams to solve real world challenges with social impact, and our Globally Networked Learning courses bring students from different countries together on Zoom.

At the same time, we are seeking new solutions to address those emerging problems through innovative research and creative works. Most recently, we launched a $318.4-million research project including more than $100 million from the federal government, Connected Minds, with diverse partners to study how AI can benefit society in ways that are socially responsible particularly for vulnerable populations.

Our students have similarly cultivated their own vision of purpose throughout their studies demonstrating ingenuity, determination and resiliency, perfectly positioning them to help reimagine our world into a place that is more equitable, inclusive and sustainable – values that are core to this University.

These values are exemplified by our honorary doctorates, award recipients and the Faculties we are celebrating.

So to our newest grads, you have now joined a network of more than 360,000 York alumni who are making a meaningful difference across diverse spheres of life. I want to encourage each of you to think about what matters to you – whether it is the fight against climate change or social justice or something else – and what contribution you want to make … the world really needs your fresh ideas.

In closing, let us join together to recognize all those who have supported your higher education journey: the community of professors, teaching assistants, administrative staff, classmates, family, partners and friends who have championed you and helped you achieve this transformative accomplishment.

Thank you for choosing York. We look forward to seeing what you will do next!

Congratulations. Bonne chance. Miigwech.

President’s University-Wide Teaching Award recipients honoured

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Five York University faculty members will be recognized during the 2023 Spring Convocation ceremonies with a President’s University-Wide Teaching Award for enhancing the quality of learning and demonstrating innovation in teaching.

The President’s University-Wide Teaching Awards are chosen from four categories: full-time faculty with 10 or more years of teaching experience, full-time faculty with less than 10 years of experience, contract and adjunct faculty, and teaching assistants. They are selected by the Senate Committee on Awards. The goal of the awards is to provide significant recognition for excellence in teaching, to encourage its pursuit, to publicize such excellence when achieved across the University and in the wider community, and to promote informed discussion of teaching and its improvement.

This year, the recipients of the awards are: Professor Kathy Bischoping of the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS); Professor Steve Gennaro of LA&PS; Professor Andrea Kalmin of LA&PS; Daphene Solis of the Lassonde School of Engineering; and Farwa Sajadi of the Faculty of Science. The recipients were chosen from numerous nominations, and each winner will have their name engraved on the University-Wide Teaching Awards plaques displayed in Vari Hall. They will each be recognized during a convocation ceremony this spring.

This year’s recipients are:

Full-time tenured faculty with 10 or more years full-time teaching experience
Katherine Bischoping
Kathy Bischoping

Professor Kathy Bischoping is the recipient of this award for her impact on student learning in the Department of Sociology as well as the graduate program in sociology. Bischoping is known for her dedication to mentoring and scholarship of teaching and learning, in addition to curriculum and program development. Nominator Professor Lesley Wood, former Chair of the department, credits Bischoping with inspiring passion and relevance in her teaching and the design of her courses, and her critical analysis of pedagogy.

“One such notable project has been her research into how vicarious traumatization affects instructors, specifically in genocide studies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Bischoping played a leading role in mentoring faculty in her department in the transition to online teaching,” reads the notice from the Senate Committee on Awards.

Bischoping has earned a number of honours and awards, including the Parents’ Association University-Wide Teaching Award and the John O’Neill Award for Teaching Excellence.

Contract and adjunct faculty

This award will recognize two faculty members for 2023: Professor Steve Gennaro, Department of Communication Studies/Humanities (LA&PS) and Professor Andrea Kalmin, Department of Social Science (LA&PS).

Steve Gennaro
Steve Gennaro

Gennaro received two separate nominations for this award in recognition of his contributions to teaching, and for his demonstration of a consistent drive to improve his teaching practice throughout his long-term employment at York. He is noted for regularly speaking and writing about pedagogical innovation, with a specific focus on the areas of online and digital learning. Both nominators – Professor Alison Halsall and Professor Rob Heynen – speak to the “immeasurable and long-lasting impact Professor Gennaro had on the University’s transition to remote teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic,” reads the announcement from the Senate Committee on Awards. Gennaro has been nominated for multiple teaching awards in the past, including the Minister of Colleges and Universities’ Awards of Excellence and the LA&PS Dean’s Excellence in Teaching Award.

Andrea Kalmin
Andrea Kalmin

Kalmin will receive the award for her role as a core member of the C4 (Cross-Campus Capstone Classroom) leadership team, where she was involved in all decision-making processes and led initiatives to support the success of C4. She is a classroom coordinator, and the “primary architect of the structures that undergird C4, including standardizing collective lesson planning processes and syllabi and assignment templates,” reads the announcement from the Senate Committee on Awards. She was nominated by Professor Danielle Robinson, who noted Kalmin’s involvement in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) research team for C4, which sets the research agenda, oversees the interpretation of data and steers publication. Her contributions have been recognized previously with awards including the 2021 LA&PS Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and the John O’Neill Award for Teaching Excellence.

Teaching assistants

Two teaching assistants have been selected to receive this award for 2023: Daphene Solis in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Lassonde School of Engineering and Farwa Sajadi in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science.

Daphene-Solis
Daphene Solis

Nominated by Professor Aleksander Czekanski, Solis has earned this award for her passion for teaching both in and out of the classroom. She is noted to have a remarkable grasp of technical subjects, as well as being resourceful, and seeks out leadership roles as a TA. “She takes the initiative while being recognized for her empathy and ability to deal with conflict,” reads the announcement from the Senate Committee on Awards. She has participated as a graduate student representation at the Technology-Enhanced, Experiential and Active Learning (TEAL) Committee, and has completed numerous training programs in teaching. In 2022, Solis was the recipient of the Best TA Award from the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Farwa Sajadi
Farwa Sajadi

Sajadi will be recognized for being a TA who fosters an academically enriched environment for learning, advancing student critical thinking and implementing creative approaches to promote student scholarship and engagement. According to her nominator, Professor Jean-Paul Paluzzi, she has excelled in her roles as lab demonstrator, lab coordinator and course director in biology for undergraduate students. “She is also highly innovative and collaborative in her teaching practices, as is demonstrated by her work during the COVID-19 pandemic to plan for labs being delivered in a hybrid format with limited in-person occupancy and students spread across three different rooms,” the Senate Committee on Awards says in the announcement. She is further known to take initiative to help students and is a leader in volunteerism. In 2022, she earned the Richard Jarrell Excellence in Teaching Award.

York University to address budget deficit over next three fiscal years 

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La version française suit la version anglaise. 

The following is a communication from York University:

York University, like many post-secondary institutions across Canada, is facing short-term financial pressures related to a variety of internal and external factors. Fortunately, the University maintains healthy reserves to help mitigate enrolment fluctuations, support strategic opportunities and priorities that will continue to advance our vision and reduce our exposure to future risks.  

The key drivers of the revenue shortfall include provincial operating funds that have been outpaced by inflation, a decline in international student enrolment exacerbated by slow visa processing times and a concurrent three-year tuition freeze. York has a clear plan to respond to the challenges we face. A number of immediate measures are being taken to reduce the expected gap in revenue compared to expenditures that will see the budget balanced by 2025-26. The aim is to strengthen our enrolment, diversify revenue, and to minimize the impact on the high-quality education we provide where reductions in expenditures are necessary.   

Consequently, to bridge the gap, administrative units will face an average of 2.5 to 4 per cent reduction in expenditures, with the Faculties and School of Continuing Studies absorbing up to a 2 per cent expenditure reduction. Budget reductions include a temporary pause or reduction in employee professional development, limiting the hiring of tenure stream faculty and staff to only urgently needed appointments, and a reduction in advertising that is not directly related to strategic enrolment management. It will also include the deferral of minor renovations and some equipment renewals. 

Strategies to drive new revenue will also be enhanced including program innovation, expanding capacity in high-demand programs, advancing 21st century learning such as microcredentials, launching our Markham Campus, student success and retention initiatives, strengthening our global engagement and internationalization strategy, implementing our Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) Strategy, building our profile and reputation, increasing our success in research and commercialization, intensifying University Advancement, and progress on our Campus Vision and Strategy. While each of these will contribute to our future financial sustainability, it will take time to realize the full benefit of our efforts.

“York University has seen tremendous success and growth over the past few years, and I am confident we can maintain our momentum while navigating this short-term challenge. Our leadership in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and our commitment to decolonization, equity, diversity and inclusion has helped propel York as the first-choice university for domestic students. These successes are a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our community and their commitment to driving positive change,” says Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor. “It will be important for us not to lose sight of our long-term goals and delivering on our vision to provide students with access to a high-quality, research-intensive learning environment committed to the public good.” 

Based on current university application data, York is in a strong position for the 2023-24 academic year with domestic first choice applications up 11.2 per cent. Converting these applications to enrolled students will have a positive budget impact. 

“Mitigating current financial pressures require all Faculties, divisions and units to do their part,” says Lisa Philipps, provost and vice-president academic. “We will work with units and Faculties to ensure their individual goals, plans and initiatives are supported through a temporary pause of some activities. We have faced these challenges in the past with success and have identified a strategic way forward that allows us to continue to advance the priorities set out in the University Academic Plan.” 


L’Université York va gérer son déficit budgétaire au cours des trois prochaines années fiscales

L’Université York, tout comme de nombreux autres établissements d’enseignement supérieur au Canada, fait face à des pressions financières à court terme liées à divers facteurs internes et externes. Fort heureusement, l’Université conserve des réserves saines pour atténuer les fluctuations des inscriptions, appuyer des possibilités stratégiques et les priorités qui continueront à faire progresser sa vision et à réduire son exposition aux risques futurs.

Les principaux facteurs à l’origine de ce manque à gagner sont les fonds de fonctionnement provinciaux qui ont été insuffisants pour faire face à l’inflation, la baisse des inscriptions d’étudiants internationaux exacerbée par la lenteur du traitement des demandes de visa et le blocage parallèle des frais de scolarité pendant trois ans. York a un plan d’action clair pour répondre aux défis auxquels elle est confrontée. Plusieurs mesures immédiates sont actuellement mises en place pour réduire l’écart attendu entre les recettes et les dépenses, et cela permettra d’équilibrer le budget d’ici 2025-2026. Même si des réductions de dépenses sont nécessaires, l’objectif demeure de renforcer nos effectifs, de diversifier nos revenus et de minimiser l’impact sur l’enseignement de qualité que nous offrons.  

Par conséquent, pour combler ce déficit, les unités administratives devront réduire leurs dépenses de 2,5 à 4 % en moyenne, tandis que les facultés et l’École de formation continue devront absorber une réduction des dépenses allant jusqu’à 2 %. Les réductions budgétaires prévoient une suspension temporaire ou une réduction du développement professionnel des employés, l’embauche de professeurs et d’employés permanents restreinte à des nominations indispensables, et la réduction de toute publicité n’ayant pas de lien direct avec la gestion stratégique des inscriptions. Elles comprennent également le report de rénovations mineures et du renouvellement de certains équipements.

Les stratégies visant à générer de nouveaux revenus seront également consolidées, notamment : l’innovation en matière de programmes; l’augmentation de la capacité de programmes très recherchés; la promotion de l’apprentissage au 21e siècle (comme les microcrédits); le lancement de notre campus Markham; les initiatives de réussite et de rétention étudiante; le renforcement de notre engagement mondial et de notre stratégie d’internationalisation; la mise en œuvre de notre stratégie de décolonisation, d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion (DEDI); l’amélioration de notre profil et de notre réputation; l’augmentation de nos succès en matière de recherche et de commercialisation; l’intensification des activités d’avancement de l’Université; et la progression de notre Vision et stratégie du campus. Chacun de ces éléments contribuera à notre future viabilité financière, mais il faudra un certain temps pour que nos efforts portent leurs fruits.

« L’Université York a connu un succès et une croissance extraordinaires au cours des dernières années. Je suis convaincue que nous continuerons sur notre lancée tout en relevant ce défi à court terme. Notre leadership dans la promotion des objectifs de développement durable des Nations Unies et notre engagement envers la décolonisation, l’équité, la diversité et l’inclusion ont contribué à faire de York un choix privilégié pour les étudiantes et étudiants nationaux. Ces succès témoignent du dévouement et de la persévérance de notre communauté et de son engagement à susciter des changements positifs, déclare Rhonda Lenton, présidente et vice-chancelière. Il est important de ne pas perdre de vue nos objectifs à long terme et de concrétiser notre vision, à savoir donner à la communauté étudiante l’accès à un environnement d’apprentissage de haute qualité, axé sur la recherche et engagé en faveur du bien public. »

Sur la base des données actuelles sur les demandes d’inscription, l’Université York est en bonne posture pour l’année universitaire 2023-2024 avec des demandes nationales de premier choix en hausse de 11,2 pour cent. La conversion de ces demandes en inscriptions aura des incidences budgétaires positives.

« Pour atténuer les pressions financières actuelles, toutes les facultés, divisions et unités doivent faire leur part, déclare Lisa Philipps, rectrice et vice-présidente aux affaires académiques. Nous travaillerons avec les unités et les facultés pour nous assurer que leurs objectifs, plans et initiatives individuels sont appuyés par une suspension temporaire de certaines activités. Dans le passé, nous avons relevé ces défis avec succès et nous avons tracé une voie stratégique nous permettant de continuer à faire avancer les priorités définies dans le Plan académique de l’Université. »

Pride Month a time to celebrate, reflect, learn

Pride Month banner 2023

Dear York community,

June marks Pride Month, a time to celebrate and reflect on the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and to learn about the history, culture and contributions they have made to our campuses and to Canadian society. 

Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have been historically, structurally and systematically excluded. These barriers very much exist today in Canada and around the world. For example, more than 70 countries today still criminalize same-sex conduct, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community still experience disproportionately high rates of gender-based violence and harassment.

York continues to fight for the equal rights and safety of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community standing against all forms of homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, discrimination and racism. These actions are central to York’s core values of equity, diversity, inclusivity and social justice.

York is focussing on ways to remove systematic barriers to ensure that our campuses are experienced as safe spaces where everyone feels that they belong. This focus can be seen through York University initiatives such as the Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) Strategy, the Provostial Fellows Program: 2023-24, and the newly announced President’s award for Excellence in Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) which recognizes sustainable and measurable change on campus, with an intersectional social justice lens, especially for equity-deserving groups such as women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

We invite you to visit the Pride website to learn more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and their ongoing work and accomplishments. We also encourage you to attend the events that are happening during Pride Month through the Central Events Calendar and Student Event Calendar. Join us for the Pride 2023 Opening Ceremony on June 7 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Vari Hall. The Ceremony is hosted by The Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion in collaboration with Student Community & Leadership Development.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Lenton
President and Vice-Chancellor

Alice Pitt
Interim Vice-President Equity, People & Culture


Déclaration à l’occasion du Mois de la Fierté

Chers membres de la communauté de York,

Le mois de juin est le mois de la Fierté, une période de célébration et de réflexion sur les expériences vécues par les membres de la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+, et de découverte de leur histoire, de leur culture et de leurs contributions à nos campus et à la société canadienne. 

Ces personnes ont été historiquement, structurellement et systématiquement exclues. De telles barrières existent encore aujourd’hui au Canada et dans le monde. Par exemple, plus de 70 pays criminalisent encore aujourd’hui les comportements homosexuels, et les membres de la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+ subissent encore des taux disproportionnés de harcèlement et de violence basée sur le genre.

York continue de lutter pour l’égalité des droits et la sécurité de la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+ en s’opposant à toutes les formes d’homophobie, de biphobie, de transphobie, de discrimination et de racisme. Ces actions sont au cœur des valeurs fondamentales de York, à savoir l’équité, la diversité, l’inclusion et la justice sociale.

York se concentre sur les moyens d’éliminer les barrières systématiques afin de garantir que ses campus soient des espaces sécuritaires où tout le monde se sent à sa place. Cette orientation se traduit par des initiatives de l’Université York comme la Stratégie de décolonisation, d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion (DEDI) et le programme de bourses de la rectrice  2023-2024, ainsi que le nouveau prix de la Présidente pour l’excellence en matière de décolonisation, d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion (DEDI), qui récompense les changements durables et mesurables sur les campus, dans une optique de justice sociale intersectionnelle, en particulier pour les groupes en quête d’équité (les femmes, les minorités visibles/racialisées, les peuples autochtones, les personnes en situation de handicap et les personnes 2ELGBTQIA+).

Nous vous invitons à visiter le site Web de la Fierté pour en savoir plus sur la communauté 2ELGBTQIA+, ainsi que sur son travail et ses réalisations. Nous vous encourageons également à participer aux événements du Mois de la Fierté en consultant le calendrier central des événements et le calendrier des événements pour les étudiantes et étudiants. Joignez-vous à nous pour la cérémonie d’ouverture du Mois de la Fierté 2023 le 7 juin de 12h30 à 14 h au pavillon Vari. La cérémonie est organisée par le Centre des droits de la personne, de l’équité et de l’inclusion, en collaboration avec Développement de la communauté étudiante et du leadership (SCLD).

Sincères salutations,

Rhonda Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

Alice Pitt
Vice-présidente intérimaire de l’équité, des personnes et de la culture

National Indigenous History Month honours histories, cultures, contributions

La version française suit la version anglaise. 

Dear York community,

June is National Indigenous History Month. It is a time to honour Indigenous histories, cultures and contributions to society.

York University is taking important steps to integrate Indigenous knowledges and perspectives as part of our well-being strategy and commitment to decolonization.

In early May, the University launched the Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) Strategy. York University is among the first post-secondary institutions in Canada to include decolonization in a meaningful and thoughtful way within an equity strategy. Doing so acknowledges that decolonization is essential to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion.

We have continued to make progress on the recommendations in the Indigenous Framework and the Decolonizing Research Administration Report. In July, the first wholly autonomous Indigenous Research Ethics Board (IREB) will launch at York University – a first for a post-secondary institution in Canada. York also completed the pilot round of Indigenous Research Seed Grants and secured an additional three years of funding at $250,000 per year. A full-time traditional counsellor position was also created for the Centre for Indigenous Student Services. These actions will support decolonization in research and administration while enhancing the experiences of Indigenous students.

While progress is being made, the journey towards decolonization and reconciliation is ongoing and requires consistent action and a conscious commitment to meet our goals.

We invite you to visit the Indigenous History Month website to learn about and participate in the events around campus, including a lecture titled “Writing Home: How to begin a conversation with the Land, a personal journey of walking, listening, looking and making” featuring keynote speaker Bonnie Devine, an Anishinaabe artist, painter and curator. The lecture will take place on June 12, 4 to 6 p.m. at the Helliwell Centre, Room 1014, Osgoode Hall Law School.

We are grateful for the opportunities to continue dialogue, raise awareness and take meaningful action.  

Thank you. Merci. Miigwech, Anushiik.

Rhonda Lenton
President and Vice-Chancellor

Alice Pitt
Interim Vice-President Equity, People and Culture

Susan D. Dion
Associate Vice-President Indigenous Initiatives


Déclaration à l’occasion du Mois national de l’histoire autochtone

Chers membres de la communauté de York,

Juin est le Mois national de l’histoire autochtone à York. C’est l’occasion de rendre hommage à l’histoire, à la culture et aux contributions des Autochtones à la société.

L’Université York prend des mesures importantes pour intégrer les savoirs et les perspectives autochtones dans le cadre de sa stratégie de bien-être et de son engagement en faveur de la décolonisation.

Au début du mois de mai, l’Université a lancé la Stratégie de décolonisation, d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion (DEDI). L’Université York est l’un des premiers établissements postsecondaires au Canada à inclure la décolonisation de manière réfléchie dans une stratégie de DEDI. Ce faisant, elle reconnaît que la décolonisation fait partie intégrante des principes d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion.

Nous ne cessons de mettre en œuvre les recommandations du Cadre stratégique autochtone et du Rapport pour la décolonisation de l’administration de la recherche. En juillet, un comité inaugural d’éthique de la recherche autochtone (IREB) entièrement autonome verra le jour à l’Université York, une première pour un établissement d’enseignement supérieur au Canada. York a également conclu le projet pilote du Fonds de stimulation de la recherche autochtone et a obtenu un financement supplémentaire annuel de 250 000 $ pour trois ans. Un poste de conseiller traditionnel à temps plein a également été créé pour le Centre de services aux étudiants autochtones. Ces actions soutiendront la décolonisation dans la recherche et l’administration tout en améliorant l’expérience des étudiantes et étudiants autochtones.

Bien que des progrès aient été accomplis, le parcours vers la décolonisation et la réconciliation se poursuit et nécessite une action cohérente et un engagement conscient pour atteindre nos objectifs.

Nous vous invitons à consulter le site Web du Mois de l’histoire autochtone pour en savoir plus sur les événements organisés sur le campus et y participer, notamment une conférence intitulée Writing Home:  How to begin a conversation with the Land, a personal journey of walking, listening, looking and making” avec l’oratrice principale Bonnie Devine, artiste, peintre et conservatrice anishinaabe. La conférence (en anglais) aura lieu le 12 juin, de 16 h à 18 h, au Centre Helliwell, salle 1014, École de droit Osgoode Hall.

Nous nous réjouissons des possibilités qui nous sont offertes de poursuivre le dialogue, d’encourager la sensibilisation et de prendre des mesures significatives. 

Thank you. Merci. Miigwech, Anushiik.

Rhonda Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

Alice Pitt
Vice-présidente intérimaire de l’équité, des personnes et de la culture

Susan D. Dion
Vice-présidente associée aux initiatives autochtones

Congress panel explores pathways to equitable and sustainable world

tablet united nations sustainability goals unsdgs

From the climate crisis to the next pandemic, how can individuals work together to solve complex global problems while ensuring the promotion of an equitable and sustainable world? Zeynep Güler Tuck, a producer, journalist, social entrepreneur and York alum will unpack these issues during Congress 2023.

The President’s Office at York University sat down with Güler Tuck to delve into what to expect at this engaging and thought-provoking session on June 1.

President’s Office: At Congress, you will moderate a panel discussion that aims to understand and address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) through the lens of decolonization, equity, diversity and inclusion (DEDI). Why is this topic so timely and important right now?

Title
Zeynep Guler Tuck - headshot
Zeynep Güler Tuck

Güler Tuck: For those who have been working toward these goals with organizations, NGOs, and institutions since the SDGs were introduced by world leaders in January 2016, these goals have either become second nature or have gone through a number of interpretations and iterations over the years. The same goes for DEDI. Especially for those who have been directly impacted by inequitable, colonial practices, policies and systems, this work has been ongoing for quite some time. However, the last decade has brought many more of us face-to-face with the kinds of disasters, pandemics, injustices and crises we might have only seen on CNN. For some, it took a crisis or emergency to happen right in their own backyards to realize the importance of centering our communities and their needs. Taking an intersectional approach to the SDGs with a DEDI lens is top of mind as a result of the social and environmental reckoning of recent years. The intersectional DEDI lens is long overdue, which has put the development goals at risk. It has never been more timely and important to address and take action toward prioritizing DEDI in the advancement of SDGs.

President’s Office: How are you advancing the SDGs in your personal and professional life? What are you hoping to learn from the panel?

Güler Tuck: Professionally, I’ve supported the SDGs through my work in the media and non-profit spaces. With Microsoft News, I collaborated with global news outlets to curate ethical story packages that raised awareness and over $1 million in funds for causes like COVID-19 relief, disaster recovery, racial justice, poverty, climate action, LGBTQ+ representation, and STEM education for girls. When Microsoft laid off MSN’s digital producers in the height of the pandemic due to automation and AI systems, I was one of them. I adapted to the change by starting my own social impact business to support organizations working in the gender equity space.

With non-profits, I have supported the economic advancement of equity-deserving entrepreneurs who run impact-driven startups in North America’s tech and innovation sector.

Personally, when it comes to SDGs and humanitarian aid, I sprung into action when the devastating earthquakes hit Turkiye and Syria in February 2023. While the Turkish community across the world was mourning, we knew we needed to act fast. I mobilized community organizations, private-sector partners, allies, neighbours and the Turkish Consulate in support of relief and recovery efforts. We continue to rely on this support as we fundraise and implement long-term projects that help earthquake survivors, including refugee families to Canada and child amputees.

For this panel, I’m eager to learn from each of the illustrious speakers about the ways organizations, institutions, and individuals have started to reframe the SDGs in the context of DEDI, and perhaps dive deeper into why it has taken this long to bring this intersectional approach to these global issues. 

President’s Office: How has your experience as a York U student and now an alum prepared you to take on these challenges in your own way?

Güler Tuck: I didn’t realize until after I graduated that my experience at York had given me more than a higher education. While York taught me about the media landscape in North America, it also taught me a lesson in adapting to changes in the industry. I experienced these changes first-hand when the decline of print media met the mercurial rise of digital media, requiring me to transition from a role as the editor-in-chief of a magazine to the digital producer of an online content platform.

Though, my “a-ha” moment occurred when I realized that my BA in communications and sociology could lead me into purpose-driven work for social good. It was a revelation and came later in my career than I had expected. So, I hope more students in comms and humanities can make the connection sooner because we need all hands on deck.

The transition wasn’t overnight. I knew I wanted to be a storyteller, so I began building narratives in the sales pits of PR firms then devising content strategies in the boardrooms of the private sector. However, it wasn’t until I came head-to-head with challenges and barriers as a woman in tech – and saw many other women facing those same obstacles – that I recognized how storytelling and narrative-building could lead to change in the world. I began mentoring and championing other women in the field, speaking at conferences and volunteering with women in STEM organizations to help amplify their work. One of the highlights of my career was releasing the Gender Equity Roadmap with Women in Tech World in 2018. As the most extensive qualitative data set on the experiences of Canadian women in tech, it was based on research collected from 1,600-plus voices in 30-plus tech communities across Canada with the collaboration of 100-plus community and national partners. In regions like the Yukon, New Brunswick and northern Ontario, partnerships allowed us to cater action plans to advance the women and gender-diverse folks working in these areas.

Now, as I double down on my advocacy and DEDI work in line with the SDGs, I am grateful that I’ve been able to come back to York as a speaker, moderator and a stakeholder in the future of this great institution.

President’s Office: Congress will include thousands of scholars, students and experts in the social sciences and humanities. How will their perspectives, research and knowledge be critical to solving complex societal issues from pandemics and global health and climate change to political conflict and racism?

Güler Tuck: This is definitely a question that keeps me up at night. However, it starts with showing up. Whether virtually or in person, Congress facilitates a crucial opportunity for us to come together to spark dialogue, share stories, have difficult yet important conversations, and walk away with actionable ideas for the future. When we bring the right people together, the discourse can have a butterfly effect that can impact how we approach a number of critical environmental and social issues. I cannot speak directly to how Congress might help resolve political strife and conflict in our world, but I can speak to the importance of acting fast, as we speed toward 2030, to use opportunities like Congress 2023 to ideate community-first action plans at local, regional and global levels that can serve as roadmaps for governments, private sectors, civil societies and individuals to visualize their next steps.

President’s Office: What action do you hope students and scholars will take from the panel discussion, and from the experience of Congress?

Güler Tuck: Luckily, this is a question that gets me up in the morning. Understanding the full scope of the SDGs as a whole can be a lot for people to wrap their heads around in the context of their everyday lives. It’s not easy to find time to end poverty or fight injustice when you are rushing to get the kids off to school, running a small business, relocating to a new country, finishing your degree or living paycheck to paycheck. Distilling them down to the impact you and I can make in our local communities and neighbourhoods makes them more digestible. Then, once we see that change, we’ll be empowered to take on larger-scale projects. The head of World Wildlife Fund-Canada, Megan Leslie, had the perfect response when I asked her in an interview how we can reverse the damaging effects of the climate crisis. She suggested that simply planting a Black-Eyed Susan flower in your garden or on your balcony can trigger a chain of natural events that could lead to the creation of a micro-habitat for the animals in your neighbourhood. You can also support businesses owned by underrepresented founders, get involved with a neighbourhood fundraiser, or join one of your company’s ERGs. There are many ways to advance these development goals at the local level. It just takes showing up. By attending Congress, either virtually or in person, students and scholars will have taken a crucial first step toward these goals. All they have to do is keep up that momentum.

President’s Ofice: Anything else you wish to add?

Güler Tuck: I’m incredibly privileged to get to host this panel at Congress and want to thank all the incredible people who made it possible. It’s always been an honour to be an active part of the York U community. It all started with the Mid-Career Conversations Series, organized by the amazing team at the York U Alumni Engagement Office.

Finally, as a takeaway for Congress attendees, I encourage you to choose one or two of the development goals to focus your efforts on at the local level this year. We all need to get involved to reach these goals. It’s better if we do it together.

The panel “Understanding the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) through the lens of Decolonization, equity, diversity & Inclusion (DEDI) is taking place on Thursday, June 1, 10 to 11 a.m. and features panelists and experts: President & Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton;  Founder and Co-Director of Future Ancestors Larissa Crawford; Deputy Minister & Commissioner of Emergency Management Bernie Derible and York Associate Professor of Biology Sapna Sharma.

York University releases new strategic research plan

FEATURED image Research theses

York University’s strategic research plan, Knowledge for the Future: From Creation and Discovery to Application, has now been finalized and is publicly available for download.

The plan was officially approved by the Senate on May 25 after a series of open forums, public consultations and faculty presentations that first began in September 2022, and engaging with over 1,500 York community members.

“As an international leader in purposeful research, York University is a modern and progressive institution ranked among the top universities in the world for its impact on advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton. “York’s reputation for excellence in research and related creative activities is rooted in interdisciplinary and intersectional approaches focused on driving positive change. Our faculty work with local and international partners building cross-sector networks that enhance our efforts to build equitable, inclusive, and sustainable communities. The new research plan lays out York’s strategy for intensifying our scholarly activities over the next five years continuing to propel the University forward as one of the most influential universities in Canada and beyond.”

The plan was developed with the help of an advisory committee made up of members from across the University. It showcases the depth and breadth of research at York and will be utilized beginning this year through to 2028.   

“The strategic research plan offers a comprehensive and clear vision for York to grow its global impact and excel in its high standing as a research-intensive university,” said Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif. “York stands ready to further its expertise and leadership in such fields as artificial intelligence, digital cultures, global health, Indigenous futurities, sustainability and more.”

The plan identifies six areas of existing research strengths, in addition to six areas of opportunity for the University to prioritize.

The six research areas of strength include:

  • Advancing Fundamental, Discovery and Theoretical Research and Scholarship
  • Illuminating Cultures and Cultivating Creativity
  • Building Healthy Lives, Communities and Reimagining Futures
  • Reaching New Horizons in Science, Technology and Society
  • Pursuing Justice, Equity and Sustainability: From Urban Dynamics to Global Challenges
  • Elevating Entrepreneurship Through Socially Responsible Innovation

The six areas of research opportunity include:

  • Digital Cultures and Disruptive Technologies
  • Healthy Communities, Equity and Global Well-being
  • Indigenous Futurities
  • Climate Action for a Sustainable Planet
  • Social Justice, Peace and Equitable Relations
  • Inter and Transdisciplinary Research Innovation 

To learn more about the plan and download it, visit yorku.ca/research/SRP.

The strategic research plan brings the York community together around a shared vision and is used as a tool by senior administration and the University Secretariat to make decisions about the institution’s research investments, infrastructure and services. The plan supports the University Academic Plan (2020-2025), which outlines York’s overall strategic objectives.

“I want to thank the advisory committee for their work and their passion, as well as to the entire York community who helped to develop and contribute to this plan alongside us,” said Asif. “I am confident that this community of changemakers can take this strategic research plan and bring it to life.”

York community gathers to celebrate Connected Minds

Partners from Queens University and York University at the May 15 event to celebrate the Connected Minds project

York community members gathered on May 15 to celebrate Connected Minds, the largest York-led research program in the University’s history.

Connected Minds: Neural and Machine Systems for a Healthy, Just Society is a first-of-its-kind interdisciplinary research program, funded in part by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF), that will work to ensure technological progress and the future of AI is fair and equitable. For more about the program and the researchers, see this story: York University leads groundbreaking research to ensure technology revolution leaves no one behind.

Attendees had the opportunity to enter an Indigenous metaverse in an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience, test their skills behind the wheel in a driving simulator, take in a VR art installation, jumble their senses in a tumbling room that can spin 360 degrees, interact with some of the latest robots used in University research, and more.

Click here to watch the full event recap on YouTube. To see photos from the event, view the gallery below.

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Kathleen Taylor installed as York’s 14th chancellor in historic ceremony

Senate Chair Poonam Puri, Board of Governors Chair Paul Tsaparis, Chancellor Kathleen Taylor, President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton

York alumna Kathleen Taylor was officially installed as the University’s first woman chancellor during a May 10 ceremony held on York’s Keele Campus.

Kathleen Taylor in chancellor's robe
Kathleen Taylor

“I have always been attracted to organizations that know they are part of something bigger than themselves; that dedicate their time, talent and treasure to advancing the ambitions of the individuals and communities they serve,” Taylor told the assembled audience, which included government and post-secondary officials, alumni and friends, and staff, faculty and students. “York is one such organization. Every person here is a changemaker, working toward a more just, sustainable and innovative world.”

A graduate of the JD/MBA program offered by Osgoode Hall Law School and the Schulich School of Business, Taylor became the first woman to Chair the board of one of Canada’s big five banks when she took the helm of the Royal Bank’s governing body a decade ago. She also served as the first president and CEO of the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts chain following its iconic founder and was the first woman to lead a major branded international hotel company.

“Kathleen is well-positioned to lead in this prestigious capacity, to galvanize our community to realize its vision to providing students with access to a quality education at a research-intensive institution committed to the public good,” said Rhonda Lenton, York University president and vice-chancellor. “I am excited to see her continue to right the future in her new role, where she will be a champion for higher education.”

The event commenced with Knowledge Keeper Amy Desjarlais, Waabaakaakakzhe zhaashkeezhgokwe (White Raven Woman with Turquoise Eyes) Ojibway/Potowotomi from Wasauksing First Nation, performing an honour song.

Bringing greetings from staff at the ceremony was Stefanie Lamonaca Caputo, a student success and academic advisor in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, while Lauren Sergio, professor in the Faculty of Health, spoke on behalf of York faculty.

Also delivering remarks were Board of Governors Chair Paul Tsaparis, Senate Chair Poonam Puri, Associate Vice-President Indigenous Initiatives Susan Dion and Chancellor Emeritus Gregory Sorbara, whose more than eight-year term as chancellor concluded in December.

Issa Abdi Jamaa, who recently completed his studies in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, brought greetings to the new chancellor on behalf of York students.

“Kathleen, as chancellor, you will also meet thousands of students as they end their studies and walk the stage to receive their degrees at convocation,” said Jamaa. “For graduating students, shaking the chancellor’s hand to mark the transition to the next chapter of our lives is an experience we all strive for. Personally, I will be a part of the first cohort of students to cross the stage in about a month from now, I am excited to share this experience with you, Kathleen.”

Chancellor Taylor's Installation 6

Taylor’s first public act as chancellor will be conferring degrees on thousands of new graduates, including Jamaa, at Spring Convocation, June 9 to 23. She will also serve as a member of both Board and Senate, bringing her vast experience and knowledge to both of the University’s governing bodies.

“Our collective success relies on our common mission, inspired by the power of collaboration between and across faculty, staff, students, alumni, government and of course our friends in the broader community,” said Taylor. “That means standing side-by-side, seeing eye-to-eye, being truthful and transparent, building on commonalities while respecting differences, and placing each and every one of our stakeholders at the centre of our success.”

Taylor also spoke about her hopes for the future and her time as chancellor.

“I believe in the transformative power of a York education and York University’s resolve for constant renewal,” she said. “And I know by working alongside you and our broader community, we will forge a better future for our great institution, and for all of those we are here to serve.”