York University celebrates its 10th annual Inclusion Day on Jan. 24. The signature community event will kick off the University’s 60th anniversary festivities by exploring the theme innovation through inclusion.
Three internationally recognized leaders representing the interconnected pursuits of higher education, community engagement, entrepreneurialism and the arts will guide guests through a journey into the creative potential of belonging.
The guest speakers are experts from Canada, the United States, Mauritius and Rwanda. They will offer compelling testimony and evidence about the power of inclusion as a catalyst for innovation, and include:
- Sarah Kaplan, director, Institute for Gender and the Economy; Distinguished Professor of Strategic Management, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto;
- Adrian Fung, associate dean, associate professor, Arts Executive, Concert Artist;
- Usha Srinivasan, vice-president, Venture & Talent Programs, MaRS Discovery District; and
- Fred Swaniker, founder and CEO, African Leadership University, Mauritius and Rwanda.
Inclusion Day brings together students, staff, and faculty from across York University’s campuses as well as members of other universities, representatives of government, industry and beyond, to question, comprehend and imagine well-being, attainment and fulfillment for all in community. During the 2018 celebrations, more than 300 people attended in person with thousands interacting online.
The practice of inclusion is central to York University’s mission to be an institution that aspires to: promote access to education to all who are eligible; connect communities locally and globally; embody excellence in research, teaching, learning governance; and generate impact.
Inclusion Day 2019 marks the beginning of York University’s rededicated commitment to this continuous project and encourages community members to reflect with renewed hope and celebrate with pride.
This free event is open to all members of the York community as well as to the general public. A light lunch will be provided. To register, visit www.yorku.ca/rights/forms/view.php?id=79.
The event is presented by the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion (REI) at York University and takes place at 11:15 a.m. at the Keele Campus Second Student Centre, 15 Library Lane.