Libraries event celebrates ‘precious moments’ of Vivienne and Neville Poy

An image of the Scott Library on the Keele Campus

On Oct. 17, Vivienne and Neville Poy will have dialogue with Jack Leong, associate dean of Libraries, to share the remarkable life stories that lead to their collaboration of the Precious Moments book project.

York University Libraries invite members of the University community to the event.

From their childhood memory of Hong Kong and Southern China, the stroke of luck that brought them to Canada, the remarkable services and achievements in their professions and community services, to their enthusiastic pursuit of gardening and photography, Vivienne and Neville Poy share with Leong the events that lead to their collaboration of the Precious Moments book project.

The Precious Moments of Vivienne and Neville Poy will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on the second floor of Scott Library and will feature remarks from Joy Kirchner, dean of Libraries, and other University leaders.

The event will include a Q-and-A discussion, a book donation ceremony and reception. Proceeds from book sales at the event will support the development of distinctive collections at York University Libraries. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by Oct. 10.

“Vivienne and Neville Poy have a special relationship with the Libraries,” said Leong. “I am excited for members of the York community to join us and learn about their remarkable lives.”

Precious Moments is an art-quality coffee table book made of the finest quality materials showcasing the photography of fine art photographer Neville Poy and accompanied by the observations of nature and tranquility, including gardening techniques of Vivienne Poy.

Vivienne Poy is an author, entrepreneur, historian, fashion designer, board member of for-profit and non-profit institutions, and community activist. In 1998, she was the first Canadian of Asian heritage to be appointed to the Senate of Canada where she focused on gender issues, multiculturalism, immigration and human rights. She was instrumental in having the month of May recognized as Asian Heritage Month across Canada. She is Chancellor Emerita of the University of Toronto and the author/co-editor of numerous publications. Since her retirement from the Senate in September 2012, she remains an active participant in communities across Canada. 

Dr. Neville Poy received his medical degree from McGill University in 1960. He completed his training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the same university and practised his specialty in Toronto until his retirement in 1995. He played leadership roles in both medical and non-medical communities, receiving recognition for his contributions to medical education, the visual and the performing arts, the military, philanthropy and voluntarism.

This event is hosted by York University Libraries, with support from York’s Division of Advancement, and co-sponsored by York’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies and the York Centre for Asian Research.