Staff, instructors and students at the York University English Language Institute and the School of Continuing Studies are mourning the sudden passing of their colleague and friend, Babak Milani, on Oct. 23.
Babak was a dedicated educator since 1998, teaching English at universities and colleges in Tehran, Dubai, Sharjah and Toronto. Since 2013, he had been with the York University English Language Institute as an instructor, teaching across its programs. During this time, Babak had a profound impact on the Institute, his students and the larger York community.
He taught hundreds of students eager to pursue their higher educational goals at York and beyond. Through patience, kindness and his immense skill as an educator, he helped many students improve their English language skills and sent them down a path to achieve their educational and personal goals. His expertise in this field, from assessment to technology, impacted so much of the institute’s programming, including the recent transition to online learning.
Babak’s friends and colleagues remember him as a thoughtful, generous, kind, reliable and supportive co-worker who was always ready to help whenever he was needed. He leaves behind a large network of friends and family, including his young daughter.
Staff, instructors and students have been touched by Babak’s collaborative spirit, passion and kindness. He will be deeply missed by his community; however, his accomplishments and memory will continue to inspire those he touched.