“Virtual U” is a new learning series for employees that is sponsored by Talent Acquisition & Development at York University. The series is focused on supporting University employees’ learning and development amidst the new challenges and opportunities of virtual work. The series features two themed tracks of learning. The Talent Track features talent and leadership development content such as resilience, managing one’s mindset, and virtual culture. The Tech Track features technological skill development such as running effective online meetings and collaborating more effectively using technology.
Dr. Marc Wilchesky, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in the Province of Ontario. After a career at York University spanning 34 years, Wilchesky retired on Oct. 1, 2019 from his position as the executive director of Counselling & Disability Services. In a special presentation for Virtual U, Wilchesky returns to York University to present a virtual talk titled, “Testing our Resilience: Coping with the COVID-19 Pandemic.” His talk will be delivered by Zoom and take place on May 1, from 1 to 2 p.m. There are a limited number of spots available. To avoid disappointment, register early by visiting: https://yorku.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcudOqgqzgoGNedboCBE-ReDRkQERc0sp01.
The following is a summary of his talk:
It is rare for individuals never to be confronted with adversity or challenging circumstances during their lifetime. Whether it is having to deal with major setbacks at home, school or on the job, having to cope with serious illness in self or others, grieving the loss of a loved one, or being impacted by catastrophic natural disasters, people typically must face some hardship during their lifetime. Now, the entire world is faced with the unprecedented challenges posed by COVID-19.
Individuals who are resilient tend to be able to harness their inner strengths and external resources to moderate the impact of adversity and to rebound more quickly from setbacks. Participants in Virtual U presentation will learn about the critical internal and external resources that can be nurtured and developed to help them become more resilient in meeting the many challenges posed by the “new normal” as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wilchesky is donating his speaker fee to York’s COVID-19 Student Relieve Fund.
More about Marc Wilchesky
Prior to coming to York University in 1985 to begin the first comprehensive postsecondary support program for students with learning disabilities in Canada, Wilchesky was the executive director of Integra, a mental health centre in Toronto for children and adolescents with learning disabilities.
His main areas of interest have been, support programs for students with disabilities at the postsecondary level, and counselling services for postsecondary students with mental health concerns. Wilchesky has lectured widely on topics related to accessible education as well as promoting resilience for students, faculty and staff in both the postsecondary and secondary school settings.