York University’s Markham Campus welcomes community to first Spring Showcase

May 30, 2023

York University’s Markham Campus held its first Spring Showcase on May 18, 2023, at Yspace Markham, inviting the community to learn about the new campus and its programs. The event drew in hundreds of community members eager to learn more about a world-renowned higher education institution like York University establishing roots in Markham and York Region.

Student volunteers, staff and faculty members showcased the unique programs and features that will make Markham Campus an exciting addition to the region. The buzz from families and prospective students contributed to an evening of excitement and anticipation for the new campus.

High school students shared enthusiasm for the convenient location of the campus, as well as the opportunity to learn more about the programs it will offer.

Students and professors mingle at the Markham Campus Spring Showcase — Parents and prospective students speaking with program representatives at the Spring Showcase information fair

Gordon Binsted, deputy provost for Markham Campus, kickstarted the event with an insightful information session delivered in the Markham Cineplex. He outlined the tech-forward and entrepreneurial programs and key features of the campus before inviting attendees to ask questions. Audience questions ranged from specific programs of interest to access to public transit to transportation between campuses to the campus’ anticipated opening date. Attendees also learned:

Markham Campus is located next to nearby transit options with increased service plans currently in the works for GO’s Unionville Station (only a five-minute walk from the campus);
plans are underway for a shuttle between the Keele and Markham campuses; and
future students can apply as soon as this fall for programs beginning at the campus in Fall 2024.

“Imagine having all the amenities and opportunities of a larger campus like Keele Campus, but in a more intimate setting at the Markham Campus,” says Binsted. ”You’ll have the opportunity to connect with professors and classmates on a more personal level and access a wide range of resources and amenities right on campus. Moreover, every program emphasizes experiential education, providing you with hands-on learning experiences in the community, labs, and work-integrated settings. This not only equips you with valuable work experience but also creates a positive impact on the surrounding community.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the information fair, featuring program booths representing Markham Campus programs. Prospective students and their parents were able to interact with faculty members and program representatives, gaining valuable insights into their programs of interest and empowering them to make informed decisions about their educational journeys. This interactive experience helped attendees envision the endless possibilities and opportunities that await them at the new campus.

Group photo of Markham Campus Spring Showcase volunteer organizers — Student volunteers, faculty, and staff members who contributed to the success of the event

“I’m really excited about the co-op placement aspect of the Markham Campus programs,” says Melissa Agaba, an international development studies student at York University. “This is especially helpful for newcomers and first-time students since they won’t have to wait until post-grad to gain valuable experience. They can avoid the frantic scramble in their final year to secure work experience.”

“This showcase was an excellent opportunity to share the excitement around art and technology, and to bring to life the collective vision we have been working on at Markham Campus,” says Rebecca Caines, professor, creative technologies. “It feels like we’re one step closer to moving into the campus and making exciting things happen.”

Anesa Albert, associate director of communications, recruitment and digital engagement, Faculty of Graduate Studies, says she was impressed with the turnout from those interested in graduate programs. Prospective graduate students expressed a keen interest in the integrated work experience component of programs, she said.

“As a biomedical student, I’m specifically interested in the new Biotechnology Management program,” says Oluwatimileyin Aina, a biomedical science student at York University. “I’m looking forward to seeing the new environment, meeting new people, and exploring new opportunities. I feel like Markham Campus will be the next big thing in Ontario.”

When Markham Campus opens its doors in Spring 2024, it will be a hub of innovation, learning and collaboration, further enriching the vibrant communities of Markham and York Region.

Visit www.yorku.ca/markham to learn more about Markham Campus.

York, Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce partner to create positive change

March 14, 2023

York University and the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create positive change for Black-owned businesses and social enterprises by reducing barriers to commerce and driving inclusive economic growth

York University has taken steps to create positive change for Black-owned businesses and social enterprises through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC).

The agreement, signed March 13, is a first between York and the CBCC and recognizes the important work the chamber does in supporting Black-owned businesses – creating a pathway for CBCC members to fast track their applications in York’s first-of-its-kind Social Procurement Vendor Portal. The new agreement also commits both organizations to share knowledge and best practices to break down barriers.

Social procurement seeks to increase community benefit by being intentional about how an organization buys its goods and services. Recognizing the way the University purchases goods and services can foster inclusive economic growth and has a positive impact on surrounding communities, York was one of Canada’s first universities to establish a comprehensive Social Procurement Policy.

Following the MOU signing, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton moderated a discussion about inclusive economic recovery featuring panelists, Doug Minter (centre), Mgt Consultant/Elevate Program Manager, Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce, Olu Villasa (right), Manager, Black Entrepreneurship Alliance, Black Creek Community Health Centre, as well as Anne Jamieson, Senior Manager, Inclusive Employment, United Way Greater Toronto, and Carol McAulay, Vice-President, Finance and Administration, York University. — Following the MOU signing, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton moderated a discussion about inclusive economic recovery featuring panelists: Doug Minter, Mgt Consultant/Elevate program manager, Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce; Olu Villasa, manager, Black Entrepreneurship Alliance, Black Creek Community Health Centre; as well as Anne Jamieson, senior manager, Inclusive Employment, United Way Greater Toronto; and Carol McAulay, vice-president, finance and administration, York University

“York is a leader in creating positive change toward a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable future and we recognize the importance of academia in convening people and ideas for meaningful action,” says York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton. “As an anchor institution, we have an opportunity and an obligation to lead by example and maximize our economic and social impact on the communities around us. I want to congratulate York’s social procurement team and the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce on this milestone agreement aimed at leveling the playing field for Black-owned businesses and social enterprises.”

By keeping community economic development as a core principle, social procurement helps create more sustainable and prosperous communities. The premise is simple: as York grows, local communities should share in the success.

“CBCC is excited to sign the MOU with our natural partner York University,” says Jamila Aman, executive director, Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce. “At CBCC we actively seek to promote, improve trade and commerce as well as the economic, civic and social welfare of Black and Afro-Canadians. We develop programs aimed at creating a high level of economic awareness at all community, educational, and political levels for the benefit of our members.”

In 2022, York launched its Social Procurement Vendor Portal, becoming the first university in Ontario – and one of the first in Canada – to open its procurement process to non-third party certified diverse vendors and social enterprises. By actively identifying and contracting with diverse-owned businesses and social enterprises, and others who disproportionately experience unemployment or underemployment and discrimination, York has prioritized vendor diversity through both its Social Procurement Policy and its Social Procurement Vendor Portal.

>>Find out how diverse-owned businesses and social enterprises can choose one of two paths to register on York’s Social Procurement Vendor Portal

This innovative drive to change how the University buys goods and services, is highlighted in how York is building its new 10-storey, 400,000-square-foot Markham Campus, set to open in Spring 2024. Through the new policy, vendors are being drawn from across the community and so far, $5.8 million has been spent at businesses headquartered and operated in York Region in fields like concrete, building supplies and technical consultations. And in response to the Social Procurement Policy, York’s construction partner Stuart Olson and their subcontractors have hired 15 equity-deserving apprentices.

Learn more at News @ York.

York celebrates Markham Campus construction milestone and major gift

February 5, 2023

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Ontario Minister of Colleges and Universities Jill Dunlop, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton and Metropia Founder and CEO Howard Sokolowski

A milestone event at the Markham Campus involved a ceremonial signing and installation of the final structural beam and a $5-million donation from Metropia.

Markham topping off — The final beam for the Markham Campus structure was moved into place during a topping off ceremony

York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, together with dignitaries, University leadership, local community members and philanthropists, marked an important phase in the building of its new Markham Campus with a topping-off ceremony Feb. 1 and the announcement of a $5-million donation toward capital construction costs from Metropia, presented by Howard Sokolowski, a York alumnus and the company’s founder and CEO.

The milestone was recognized with a ceremonial signing of the final beam of the Markham Campus structure. The final structural I-beam was then lifted and placed by a crane – completing the building’s frame.

The $5-million donation from Metropia and Sokolowski will go toward the capital construction costs of the campus. In honour of this gift, the student success centre on the first and second floors of the new building will be named the Metropia Student Success Centre.

Watch the video below for more on the topping off ceremony and gift announcement. The Markham Campus is set to open in Spring 2024.

Long-serving faculty member creates bursary award for Markham students

January 24, 2023

A new bursary award for York University’s Markham Campus students will honour the contributions and legacy of Professor Alice Pitt who currently serves as senior advisor, Markham Academic Strategic Planning.

Pitt has been a faculty member at York since 1995, serving the University in leadership roles such as vice-provost academic (2012-20), Faculty of Education dean (2008-12), and Faculty of Education associate dean (2002-07).

The award will honour her contributions to York University while expanding financial support for students.

The $25,000 donation from Pitt will create an endowed bursary to benefit continuing undergraduate students entering their final year in a Markham Campus program and experiencing financial hardship. Each year, one recipient will receive approximately $1,000 from the Alice Pitt Bursary. The award will be available through Student Financial Services once the campus opens in Spring 2024.

Pitt credits the inspiration and wisdom of colleagues and students for her successful career at York.

“Working with colleagues from every corner of the university and in conversation with the Markham and York Region communities has been such fun and gave my creativity and curious mind lots of stimulation,” says Pitt. “From designing welcoming spaces to facilitating conversations across programs about student learning and experience, I have learned so much.”

She hopes her donation will inspire others to contribute in ways that increase access to post-secondary education for future generations. In addition to her current gift, Pitt has also made arrangements in her will for a future gift to continue support for students in financial need at York’s Markham and Keele campuses.

“York University is proud of the diversity of its student body and is always looking for ways to provide what students need to flourish, to articulate their goals, and to achieve them,” says Pitt. “It is important to me that students who attend York at the Markham Campus have access to supports designed with them in mind and from the time the doors open.”

Increased access to high-quality university education in general and increased access for those who might not seek out university study stand to strengthen communities and improve opportunities, she says.

“We are very grateful for Alice’s continued support for Markham Campus,” said Gordon Binsted, deputy provost, Markham. “She has been instrumental in getting the campus off the ground and her contributions exemplify the community spirit that we hope to foster at the campus.”

Markham Campus will embed York University in the heart of one of the most diverse and dynamic urban communities in the province and country. The impressive facility will feature 10 floors of teaching and learning spaces and plenty of common areas to meet, study and collaborate.

Year in Review 2022: Top headlines at York University, September to December

January 13, 2023

As a new year emerges, YFile takes a look back on 2022 to share with readers a snapshot of the year’s highlights. “Year in Review” will run as a three-part series and will feature a selection of top news stories published in YFile. Here are the stories and highlights for September to December, as chosen by YFile editors.

September

York receives $7.25M to use AI, big data in fight against infectious diseases
At a time when the risk of emerging or re-emerging infectious diseases (ERIDs) is increasing, an international team led by York University successfully competed to receive a $7.25-million grant from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) to help tackle the issue.

Nuit Blanche at York University - photo by William Meijer — An installation at the Nuit Blanche exhibit at York University

‘Nuit Blanche comes to York University’s Keele Campus
As part of the celebrated arts festival Nuit Blanche 2022, the Art Gallery of York University (AGYU) and York University presents Streams~Nuit Blanche, an evening of campus-wide exhibitions, art installations and events featuring 34 artists and showcasing 19 projects located around the central core of the Keele Campus.

Current student Katelyn Truong pictured with York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton in front of her selected artwork for the Markham Hoarding art installation

YFile reaches 20-year milestone
York University’s source for faculty and staff news is celebrating its 20-year anniversary on Sept. 9. One of North America’s longest-running university newsletters, YFile is marking the date with a special issue.

Markham Campus art installation an expression of positive change
An art installation unveiled on Sept. 28 at York University’s Markham Campus highlights how amazing things happen when diverse communities work together to create positive change.

October

York University announces appointment of new chancellor
York University’s Board of Governors appointed Kathleen Taylor as York’s 14th chancellor to a three-year term, effective Jan. 1, 2023. The appointment follows outgoing Chancellor Gregory Sorbara, who was first appointed in 2014 and is leaving the role after more than nine years of distinguished service to York.

World’s tiniest lecture hall presents big thinking on environmental threat
Lassonde School of Engineering Assistant Professor Shooka Karimpour reflects on her experience delivering a micro-lecture in the world’s tiniest lecture hall about our world’s growing problem of microplastics.

Announcing the 2022 Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars
York University has announced Sylvester Aboagye, Landing Badji, Leora Gansworth and Graeme Reed as this year’s recipients of the Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars.

Global Strategy Lab awarded $8.7M to create AMR Policy Accelerator
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest threats humanity faces today. Decades of use, overuse and misuse of antimicrobials in animals and humans has led to the development of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that no longer respond to lifesaving antimicrobial medicines.

November

York researchers’ revamped AI tool makes water dramatically safer in refugee camps
A team of researchers from the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research and Lassonde School of Engineering have revamped their Safe Water Optimization Tool (SWOT) with multiple innovations that will help aid workers unlock potentially life-saving information from water-quality data regularly collected in humanitarian settings.

The film poster for Beyond Extinction: Sinixt Resurgence

York film professor’s documentary explores little-known struggle of the Sinixt people
Twenty-seven years in the making, School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design Film Professor Ali Kazimi’s documentary about an autonomous Indigenous people’s struggle to overturn their legal extinction is set to receive its international premiere.

Osgoode students make their mark at Supreme Court of Canada
It’s a rare experience – even for seasoned lawyers, but a select group of students at Osgoode Hall Law School can now add the Supreme Court of Canada to their resumes through their work on a case that was heard Nov. 29.

Five York PhD students receive Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
The award is intended to support first-rate doctoral students who demonstrate both leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in the fields of social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering and health. The selection criteria include academic excellence, research potential and leadership.

December

Osgoode grads earn clerkships at Canada’s highest court and beyond
Two recent graduates from Osgoode Hall Law School, Barbara Brown and Jennah Khaled, will both serve Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) justices through their upcoming 2023-24 clerkships. Many of their classmates are headed to similarly prestigious positions.

Lassonde’s k2i academy introduces teacher resources for de-streaming Grade 9 science in Ontario
EIn 2022, the Ontario Ministry of Education released the new Grade 9 de-streamed science curriculum. The k2i academy at the Lassonde School of Engineering was selected by the Ontario Ministry of Education to develop classroom-ready resources to support teachers across Ontario. After months of work, the new resource is now available.

Mohamed Sesay, co-ordinator of the African Studies Program

Black scholars form new interdisciplinary research cluster
A group of professors affiliated in various ways with York University’s African Studies Program join forces to create a unique, interdisciplinary research cluster focusing on adaptive knowledge, response, recovery and resilience in transnational Black communities.

The engine behind human gut microbiome analysis and data science
As his career unfolds, biostatistician Kevin McGregor is becoming very familiar with the human gut microbiome. His work is particularly relevant given the human biome is a community of microorganisms that inhabit our bodies and appears to be linked to numerous health concerns, both physical and mental.

This concludes YFile‘s Year in Review 2022 series. To see part one, January to April, go here. To see part two, May to August, go here.

Year in Review 2022: Top headlines at York University, May to August

January 11, 2023

May

Osgoode doctoral student named Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholar
As the daughter of Kurdish migrants who were uprooted from their home after the 1979 Iranian revolution, Roojin Habibi was naturally drawn to the study and practice of human rights law. It was only later that the accomplished doctoral researcher at Osgoode Hall Law School of York University decided to dedicate herself to the pursuit of global health justice.

A new knowledge hub at Glendon takes aim at shortage of French language teachers
Demand for French-language education is on the rise as parents hope to give their children an edge in their lives and careers, but Canada is struggling to keep up with the need for French language teachers, with an estimated shortfall of 10,000 teachers across the country. The new Camerise hub seeks to resolve the dilemma.

Immersive audio experience takes listeners into the drug overdose crisis
Cinema and Media Arts Professor Brenda Longfellow has been working with Darkfield, a U.K. theatre company specializing in immersive audio, and Crackdown, a monthly podcast covering the drug war through the eyes of drug user activists, to produce Intravene to plunge listeners into the heart of the overdose crisis in Vancouver.

Pandemic reveals systemic issues facing mothers
As families get ready to celebrate mothers this Mother’s Day with most COVID-19 pandemic related public health restrictions lifted, one York University motherhood expert says the pandemic has acted as a beacon to expose longstanding cracks in systems of caregiving, women’s rights and gender equality.

June

Graduands, alumni to cross stage in person during 2022 Spring Convocation
The long-standing tradition of graduating students crossing a stage to accept a diploma returned to York University’s Keele and Glendon Campuses when 2022 Spring Convocation was celebrated with in-person ceremonies for the first time since 2019.

Five faculty members receive 2022 President’s University-Wide Teaching Awards
Five individuals who have considerably enhanced the quality of learning for York students are recipients of the 2022 President’s University-wide Teaching Awards.

Daphene Solis works in the lab located in the Bergeron Centre for Engineering Excellence

Passion for mechanical engineering leads grad student to explore 4D-bioprinting
York PhD student Daphene Solis is researching new ways to create a novel type of material that is similar to soft contact lenses, which can be used to grow artificial blood vessels for tissue engineering applications.

New funding expands use of VR technology in undergraduate chemistry teaching
Faculty of Science chemistry Professors Kyle Belozerov and Derek Jackson have received new funding to expand the use of virtual reality (VR) technology in chemistry courses to help students understand the structure and function of biological molecules at a deeper level.

York’s 2022 Schulich Leaders share passion for entrepreneurship
With the help of the Schulich Leader Scholarship program, two graduating high school students from the Greater Toronto Area are headed to York University this fall to begin their studies.

July

Professor Steven Hoffman takes new leadership role at Public Health Agency of Canada
York Professor Steven Hoffman will began a new role as vice-president corporate data and surveillance at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). As the former scientific director of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research’s (CIHR) Institute of Population and Public Health, he brings significant expertise to the agency to help shape the future of public health responses in Canada.

Paria Shahverdi (left) and Mona Frial-Brown (right)

Mona Frial-Brown named recipient of the 2022 Lynda Tam Guiding Light and Legacy Award
The Advising Community of Practice and Peer Leader Community of Practice has selected Mona Frial-Brown, manager of student success and access programs in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS), to receive the 2022 Lynda Tam Guiding Light and Legacy Award.

Lassonde professor’s work is a field of green
Lassonde Professor Gene Cheung partnered with a fintech agricultural company to improve crop yield predictions using graph signal processing and deep learning.

Astrophysicist Sarah Rugheimer appointed new Allan I. Carswell Chair for the Public Understanding of Astronomy
On July 1, Associate Professor Sarah Rugheimer began her appointment as the new Allan I. Carswell Chair for the Public Understanding of Astronomy in the Faculty of Science at York University.

August

New funding to deliver interdisciplinary, innovative training program in microsystems engineering
Lassonde School of Engineering Professor Regina Lee, along with Associate Professor Pouya Rezai, Associate Professor Gerd Grau, Associate Professor Ozzy Mermut, Professor Peter Lian and six other faculty from across Canada, were awarded $1.65 million from NSERC to deliver an interdisciplinary, innovative training program in microsystems engineering.

Sherman extension groundbreaking — A groundbreaking ceremony for the new, two-storey, state-of-the-art Neuroscience Laboratory and Research Building took place on July 27

Extension of York’s world-class research centre underway
Construction is underway for a new, two-storey, state-of-the-art Neuroscience Laboratory and Research Building at York University that will advance research and innovation while providing students with experiential education opportunities.

York invests in Indigenous experiential education curriculum
York University’s Academic Innovation Fund (AIF) has invested in Biskaabiiyaang: The Indigenous Metaverse to develop its Indigenized curriculum and create experiential education opportunities. Professor Maya Chacaby, a Sociology Department faculty member at Glendon Campus, is the project lead and Biskaabiiyaang’s chief visionary.

Markham Campus to offer three programs at IBM Learning Space in Fall 2023
York University will welcome its first cohort of Markham Campus students in Fall 2023 with three Markham programs offered through the University’s partnership with IBM.

Check back in the next edition of YFile for Year in Review 2022: Top headlines at York University, September to December. To see part one, January to April, go here.

Welcome to the Winter 2023 term

January 8, 2023

Vari Hall Winter scene showing the Harry Arthurs Common

Dear York community,

For those of you who may be arriving at York for the first time and those of you who are returning, I wish you all a warm welcome to the start of the 2023 winter term. I hope you had an opportunity to connect with family and friends over the holiday season and feel reinvigorated for an exciting year ahead.

Many of you will have heard me talk about York’s vision as a modern and progressive international teaching and research university committed to driving positive change for our local and global communities. This year is already shaping up to be a critical time in our institution’s history.

On Jan. 1, York welcomed its 14th chancellor, Kathleen Taylor. A York alumna, Kathleen was the first woman to serve on the board for a major bank in Canada and she remains a strong advocate for diverse representation across organizations and boards. I am excited to see her continue to right the future in her new role, where she will be a valued ambassador for students at York and a champion for higher education.

We are also embarking on an important journey that will support the University’s commitment to the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and social justice. The draft Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (DEDI) 2022-2027 aims to drive transformational change by embedding DEDI principles, practices and actions at an institutional level. The DEDI Strategy, which was created in consultation with a number of groups, including the President’s Advisory Council on EDI, will strengthen our institution, support more equitable, diverse and inclusive communities, and create a place where everyone feels they belong.

The Markham Campus is progressing well. York will mark the completion of the campus structure with a Topping Off ceremony in the weeks ahead as we move closer to our official opening in spring 2024. We are excited to welcome our first cohort of students for select programs this fall – to be delivered at our state-of-the-art Learning Space in the world-class IBM Canada headquarters until they can be transitioned into the new building.

York continues to respond to the urgent needs of the future through our partnership with the Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct. The centre is a significant opportunity for York to expand urgently needed health programs including our proposal for a new School of Medicine. Designed to increase the number of family doctors and other primary care physicians, our unique population health curriculum combines data analytics and digital-health solutions with a team-based and patient-centred care model that will improve health equity for diverse and underserved communities.

These projects and many others continue to advance our University Academic Plan 2020-2025: Building a Better Future. I am excited to continue our work together as we strengthen our impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals towards building an inclusive, resilient and sustainable world.

Let me also take this opportunity to invite you to join me on Feb. 11 for York’s community skating event hosted with the City of Markham. All students, staff, faculty, course instructors, volunteers and partners are invited to attend whether you have skated before or not. More information will be shared with our community over the coming weeks.

I wish you all a happy, healthy and productive 2023.

Rhonda L. Lenton
President and Vice Chancellor

Bienvenue au trimestre d’hiver 2023

Chère communauté de York,

Je souhaite une chaleureuse bienvenue à toutes les personnes qui arrivent peut-être à York pour la première fois et à toutes celles qui sont de retour pour la rentrée du trimestre d’hiver 2023. J’espère que vous avez eu l’occasion de vous retrouver en famille et entre amis pendant la saison des fêtes et que vous avez rechargé vos batteries pour l’année à venir.

Beaucoup d’entre vous ont dû m’entendre parler de la vision de York en tant qu’université internationale d’enseignement et de recherche moderne et progressiste qui vise à promouvoir des changements positifs pour nos communautés locales et mondiales. Cette année s’annonce déjà comme un moment crucial de notre histoire.

Le 1^er janvier, l’Université York a accueilli sa 14^e chancelière : Kathleen Taylor. Diplômée de York, Kathleen a été la première femme à siéger au conseil d’administration d’une grande banque au Canada et elle défend ardemment la représentation diversifiée dans les organisations et les conseils d’administration. Dans son nouveau rôle, elle sera une ambassadrice précieuse pour la communauté étudiante de York et une championne de l’enseignement supérieur et je m’en réjouis.

Nous nous engageons aussi dans un projet important qui appuiera l’engagement de l’Université envers les valeurs d’équité, de diversité, d’inclusion et de justice sociale. Notre ébauche de stratégie de décolonisation, d’équité, de diversité et d’inclusion (DEDI) 2022-2027 vise à favoriser des changements transformationnels en intégrant les principes, pratiques et actions DEDI au niveau institutionnel. La stratégie DEDI a été créée en consultation avec plusieurs groupes, dont le Conseil consultatif de la présidente sur l’EDI. Elle consolidera l’Université, favorisera des communautés plus équitables, diverses et inclusives, et créera un espace où chaque personne éprouve un sentiment d’appartenance.

Le campus Markham progresse bien. Dans les prochaines semaines, York marquera l’achèvement de la structure du campus par une cérémonie de clôture du chantier, alors que nous nous rapprochons de l’ouverture officielle au printemps 2024. Nous nous réjouissons d’accueillir la toute première cohorte étudiante de certains programmes cet automne. Les cours seront donnés dans notre espace d’apprentissage ultramoderne au sein du siège social prestigieux d’IBM Canada jusqu’à leur transfert dans le nouveau bâtiment.

York continue de répondre aux besoins pressants de demain grâce à son partenariat avec l’espace de soins de santé de Vaughan. Il constitue une occasion exceptionnelle de développer des programmes de santé urgemment attendus, comme notre proposition d’ouvrir une nouvelle école de médecine. Unique en son genre et conçu pour accroître le nombre de médecins de famille et d’autres médecins de soins primaires, notre programme d’études sur la santé de la population associe l’analyse des données et des solutions de santé numérique à un modèle de soins axé sur l’équipe et les malades qui améliorera l’équité en matière de santé pour les communautés diverses et mal desservies.

Ces projets et bien d’autres continuent de faire progresser le Plan académique 2020-2025 de l’Université York : Bâtir un avenir meilleur. J’ai hâte de poursuivre notre collaboration tandis que nous renforçons notre contribution aux objectifs de développement durable des Nations Unies afin de bâtir un monde inclusif, résilient et durable.

J’en profite aussi pour vous inviter à vous joindre à moi le 11 février pour un événement de patinage communautaire de York organisé avec la Ville de Markham. Tous les membres de la communauté étudiante, du personnel, des corps professoral et enseignant, les bénévoles et autres partenaires sont invités à y participer, peu importe leur niveau d’expérience. Plus de détails seront communiqués à notre communauté dans les prochaines semaines.

Je vous souhaite une année 2023 heureuse, productive et en bonne santé.

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

Volunteers welcome for York’s contingent in Markham Santa Claus Parade

November 15, 2022

Help spread holiday cheer and York spirit at the Markham Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Transportation will be provided to and from Keele Campus. Kids are welcome.

Please note, space is limited.

Markham Campus art installation an expression of positive change

September 30, 2022

Artists and their artwork selected for the Markham Hoarding Art Installation "Right the Future"

An art installation unveiled on Sept. 28 at York University’s Markham Campus highlights how amazing things happen when diverse communities work together to create positive change.

York students, staff, faculty and alumni are making things right for local communities, the planet and the future through artistic expressions on display in front of the University’s new campus, currently under construction in the heart of Markham.

York University has partnered with STEPS – an award-winning cultural organization that facilitates public art initiatives across Canada – to showcase community artwork on the construction hoarding on Enterprise Boulevard, in front of the Markham Campus site. Earlier this year, an invitation for artistic expressions from the York community was issued asking artists to consider what it means to right the future at the Markham Campus.

“York University is rooted in the longstanding core values of social justice, equity and sustainability and we are proud of how our students and alumni are seeking to create a more sustainable and inclusive world through these artistic expressions,” says Rhonda Lenton, York’s president and vice-chancellor. “Markham Campus represents the very best of what York has to offer – enhanced 21st century learning that prepares the next generation for the jobs of the future while expanding the region’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems. This public art installation will spark important community reflection and conversation while strengthening our impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and driving positive change for our local and global communities.”

Eight artworks were selected to be part of the final exhibition, titled “Right The Future.” Featured artists received an honorarium per selected image and were credited on-site as well as in all exhibit materials. The artists are:

Lisa Cristinzo – a queer painter and installation artist and first-generation Canadian settler living in Tkaronto. She has a BFA from OCADU and an MFA from York University.
Wendy Lu – a Hard of Hearing, Taiwan-born, Toronto-based multimedia artist who graduated with specialized honours from York University with a bachelor of fine arts in visual arts.
Marissa Magneson – is a Cree-Métis artist, photographer, educator, and workshop facilitator. She has a BFA honours degree from York University and a master’s degree in Canadian and Indigenous studies from Trent University. She is pursuing a doctoral student in the Faculty of Education at York University.
Sabeel Sadicote – is a self-taught artist who experiments with assorted media. She is an MBA candidate at the Schulich School of Business.
Jasmine Swimmer – is an Afro-Indigenous multi-disciplinary artist specializing in digital art and animation. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from York University.
Mark Terry – is a digital artist, documentary filmmaker and adjunct professor at York’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change.
Katelyn Truong – is a Toronto-based illustrator who graduated from OCAD University and is currently working toward a bachelor of education at York University.
Julija Valdmanis – is a registered nurse currently enrolled in York University’s Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner program. Valdmanis is a self-taught artist.

Student Julija Valdmanis talks about her artwork that was selected for the Markham Hoarding art installation

During the Sept. 28 event, Lenton offered acknowledged those involved in the project, and referred to the unveiling ceremony as a high point in York’s history. The construction hoarding, she noted, tells a series of stories that come from the imaginations and lived experiences of talented artists from the York community.

Lenton said: “In the artist statement that accompanies her work ‘Reflection,’ Sabeel writes, ‘The choices we take today will determine what the future holds for us. Our actions will either flow towards the road of darkness or flow into the future that is ‘right’ for all. So, what actions will lead us to a future that is ‘right’ for us? What actions can enrich lives, make all communities prosper, and make nature bloom?’

“Powerful words and work from Sabeel and the seven other artists.”

By challenging the traditions of what a university campus can offer, Markham Campus will act as a unique meeting place for students to interact directly with employers, start-up companies, and community partners from across York Region. It will also provide space for unexpected and creative encounters, interdisciplinarity and collective learning experiences.

The new campus will embed York U in the heart of one of the most diverse and dynamic urban communities in the province and country. As the City of Markham continues to develop, it also retains a rich history and heritage that informs its growth. Acknowledging that the University will be part of this tapestry, York U students, staff, faculty and alumni were invited to share their artistic expressions of positive change, for a chance to have their artwork featured in the community art project. Artists were encouraged to think outside the box about what it means to right the future at this new campus, while contemplating the dimensions of time (past, present and future), interdisciplinarity, sustainability and reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

A street view of the Markham Hoarding art installation

York U is the highest-ranked university in the GTA in the Times Higher Education Impact rankings, and in the top three Ontario universities. On a global scale, York U is ranked in the world’s top 35 universities – ranking 33 out of 1,406 universities, moving up 34 spots from last year in terms of addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“We are thrilled to partner with the City of Markham, York Region and business and community leaders to deliver exciting projects and initiatives that reflect the diverse voices within our communities. I am pleased to see this community art collaboration come to life as we continue to build momentum toward the opening of the campus in Spring 2024,” says Gordon Binsted, deputy provost, Markham Campus. “Thank you to the talented and dedicated artists within York University’s community for submitting such compelling art that contemplates how Markham Campus will right the future.”

The artwork will be displayed on the construction hoarding until it is no longer required on site. To learn more about Markham Campus, visit yorku.ca/markham.

Markham Campus to offer three programs at IBM Learning Space in Fall 2023

August 26, 2022

York University will welcome its first cohort of Markham Campus students in Fall 2023 with three Markham programs offered through the University’s partnership with IBM.

The following Markham programs will be delivered at York’s state-of-the-art Learning Space in the world-class IBM Canada headquarters:

Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Technologies, offered by the Lassonde School of Engineering,
Master of Science in Management Practice, offered by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies,
Graduate Diploma in Management, offered by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies.

The IBM Learning Space is a high-profile and dynamic environment populated by academic researchers, entrepreneurs, startups and developers. Located in Markham, the IBM building is also home to Innovation York and ventureLAB, a start-up tech incubator, and the IBM Innovation Space, a hub that provides more than 40 tech companies with resources such as access to IBM cloud and cognitive business technologies.

The Markham Campus will include four new research clusters designed to offer exceptional research, training, experiential learning and collaboration opportunities. The research clusters include AI & Society, FinTech, Digital Cultures and Public Policy and will provide students and faculty with close proximity to innovative companies within these fields to spur new collaborations and partnerships.

“York has seen significant strides in the development of the new Markham Campus, which includes a number of new course offerings and research that will pair advanced technology with interdisciplinary approaches to support a future that is sustainable, responsible and inclusive,” says Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor. “We look forward to welcoming the first cohort of Markham Campus students in 2023, with all Markham programs and students on-site in the 2024 academic year.”

Applications for the 2023 academic year will open this fall, and space is limited.

“These initial offerings are a sample of the innovative and job-ready academic programming that will be a hallmark of the Markham Campus,” said Gordon Binsted, deputy provost, Markham Campus. “Almost all Markham programs have already been approved by Senate and the University continues to explore opportunities to introduce additional programming at the new campus.”

The new campus will open in Spring 2024 and will include programs that offer flexible learning formats, small class sizes and the opportunity to round out classroom learning with workplace experiential education.

The construction team continues to make progress on the campus building, with the concrete pouring of the eighth floor underway and plumbing rough-ins and electrical wiring progressing well for the lower levels.

The Markham Campus will embed York University in the heart of Markham, Ontario, one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in Canada and an ideal home for a community of positive changemakers. The high-tech, research-intensive campus located in the fast-growing York Region will offer opportunities for students, faculty and staff to collaborate directly with employers, startups and community partners with a shared commitment to right the future.

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