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Reminder: The next Virtual Town Hall will take place Wednesday, Oct. 21

Vari Hall new image
Vari Hall new image

The following is a message from York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton: 

I would like to remind you that the next Virtual Town Hall takes place this Wednesday, Oct. 21.

An opportunity to learn more about the University’s plans and initiatives, the Town Hall provides students, staff and faculty the chance to have questions answered directly by the senior leadership team. We encourage you to submit questions in advance using this form.

Date: Wednesday, Oct. 21
Time: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Zoom Webinar: https://yorku.zoom.us/j/96721857030?pwd=VHdWV09HdkRlREIzSWhTSjBDcmV2QT09

Webinar ID: 967 2185 7030

Telephone Dial-In: 647-374-4685

Password: 243293

Livestream: https://conversations.info.yorku.ca/

Vice-President Academic and Provost Lisa Philipps, Vice-President Finance and Administration Carol McAulay, Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif, Vice-President Equity, People & Culture Sheila Cote-Meek, Vice-President Advancement Jeff O’Hagan, and University Registrar Darran Fernandez will also be in attendance to help answer your questions.

If you have any accessibility needs, notes or comments, please let us know.

We will be hosting this Town Hall via the video conferencing platform, Zoom Webinar. You can learn about downloading and using Zoom here. The Webinar will also be livestreamed on the Town Hall website.

The latest community updates, resources and answers to frequently asked questions can always be found on our YU Better Together website.

I look forward to your questions.

Sincerely,

Rhonda L. Lenton 
President & Vice-Chancellor

RAPPEL: Rejoignez-nous ce mercredi pour une conversation communautaire virtuelle

 

J’aimerais vous rappeler que notre prochaine conversation communautaire virtuelle aura lieu le mercredi 21 octobre.

Les conversations communautaires sont une occasion d’en savoir plus sur les plans et les initiatives de l’Université. Elles donnent la chance aux membres du corps étudiant, du personnel et du corps professoral de poser des questions directement à l’équipe de la haute direction. Nous vous encourageons à soumettre vos questions à l’avance à l’aide de ce formulaire.

Date : Mercredi 21 octobre 
Heure : 14 h 30 à 15 h 45 

Webinaire Zoom : https://yorku.zoom.us/j/96721857030?pwd=VHdWV09HdkRlREIzSWhTSjBDcmV2QT09

 Code du webinaire : 967 2185 7030

Numéro de téléphone : 647-374-4685

Mot de passe : 243293

Lien pour la diffusion en direct : https://conversations.info.yorku.ca/

La rectrice et vice-présidente aux affaires académiques, Lisa Philipps, la vice-présidente aux finances et à l’administration, Carol McAulay, le vice-président de la recherche et de l’innovation, Amir Asif, la vice-présidente de l’équité, des personnes et de la culture, Sheila Cote-Meek, le vice-président à la promotion, Jeff O’Hagan, et le registraire de l’Université, Darran Fernandez, seront également présents pour m’aider à répondre à vos questions.

Si vous avez des besoins, des remarques ou des commentaires en matière d’accessibilité, veuillez nous le faire savoir.

Cette conversation communautaire aura lieu grâce à la plateforme de visioconférence Zoom Webinar. Vous pouvez télécharger Zoom et apprendre à vous servir ici. Le webinaire sera également diffusé en direct sur le site Web des conversations communautaires.

Vous trouverez les dernières mises à jour, ressources et réponses aux questions fréquemment posées sur notre site Web YU Better Together.

J’attends vos questions avec impatience.

Veuillez agréer mes sincères salutations, 

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

Call for nominations for the President’s Research Excellence Awards

Featured image for the postdoc research story shows the word research in black type on a white background
Featured image for the postdoc research story shows the word research in black type on a white background

The Senate Committee on Awards invites current or emeritus tenure-stream faculty members to nominate colleagues for the President’s Research Awards: the President’s Emerging Research Leadership Award, the President’s Research Impact Award, and the President’s Research Excellence Award.

The 2018-19 competition marked the introduction of two disciplinary clusters for the President’s Emerging Research Leadership Award and the President’s Research Excellence Award: 1) Engineering, Science, Technology, Health and Biomedicine, and 2) Social Sciences, Art & Design, Humanities, Business, Law and Education.

The President’s Emerging Research Leadership Award (PERLA) recognizes full-time faculty members within 10 years of their first academic appointment, who have had a notable impact on their field, and made a significant contribution to advancing the University’s international reputation for research excellence and the York community’s intellectual life. The PERLA will be conferred to two researchers, one from each disciplinary cluster.

The President’s Research Impact Award recognizes full-time, active faculty members whose body of research or scholarship has translated into a notable impact on communities, individuals, public policies or practice beyond academe, or translated successfully into impactful commercial or other applications, while contributing to the University’s research culture and reputation.

The President’s Research Excellence Award (PREA) recognizes senior full-time faculty at the rank of Professor, with distinguished scholarly achievements who have had a notable impact on their field, and made a significant contribution to advancing the University’s international reputation for research excellence and the York community’s intellectual life. The PREA will be conferred in alternating years between the two disciplinary clusters. This year, the PREA is open to researchers in Cluster 2: Social Sciences, Arts & Design, Humanities, Business, Law and Education.

The criteria and nomination forms can be found on the Senate Committee on Awards website. The deadline for the submission of nominations is Friday, Nov. 27 at 4:30 p.m.

President’s message on rising COVID-19 cases in Toronto

Image: CDC
An image of the COVID-19 virus. Image: CDC

La version française suit la version anglaise.

Dear York Community,

Toronto Public Health (TPH) tracks and reports on positive COVID-19 cases daily including ongoing reporting of cumulative cases by specific neighbourhoods. Through this reporting we are aware that there are a high number of positive cases in the area adjacent to our Keele Campus, known as York University Heights. As a result, I would like to reiterate the important precautions we all must continue to take to keep each other safe and how York is doing its part.

At York University, we continue to be guided by public health and government guidelines. This spring, the University made the decision to offer more than 97 per cent of our 3,500 undergraduate courses through online and remote delivery for the 2020-21 academic year. Thanks in part to this proactive measure, cases on our campus remain low. We must however continue to be vigilant.

In the daily briefing, the City of Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health consistently underscores the importance of:

  • Physical distancing: Maintain two (2) metres (or six feet) apart or wear a mouth and nose cover;
  • Mandatory mouth and nose covers in indoor public spaces;
  • Washing hands frequently with soap and water and/or using hand sanitizer.

York University continues to work closely with TPH while continuing to take active measures to keep our community members as safe and informed as possible. Recently, we added a page to our Better Together website that provides a daily update on the number of reported positive COVID-19 cases of any individuals who have recently been on campus. The website also provides more detail on the steps that TPH takes to assess any risk to York University community members, and to advise the University or individuals accordingly of any mitigating steps that should be taken.

We also have contingency plans in place to respond to a number of potential scenarios to identify, isolate and contain health and safety situations that may occur for those who come onto our campuses and for those who live on campus.

If any positive COVID-19 diagnoses are reported to the University, we immediately provide that information to TPH who are responsible for contact tracing/case management. Contact tracing, notification, and follow up is a process that TPH uses to identify, educate, and monitor anyone who has had close contact with someone infected with COVID-19 virus. If TPH determines there is a potential community risk of transmission, the University follows their direction to help mitigate any identified risk.

Anyone with a confirmed case of COVID-19 will be contacted by TPH and instructed to self-isolate immediately. Using contact tracing, TPH identifies any persons with whom the individual was in close contact and potentially exposed to the virus. TPH also provides active daily monitoring of confirmed cases, providing each individual with instructions including how to self-monitor and how to prevent further spread, until the positive case is resolved, and the isolation period ends. TPH does not routinely disclose the locations that the individual with COVID-19 visited unless there is some specific risk identified where individuals cannot be identified – for example, riders on a bus where a passenger tests positive.

For more information, please visit: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus/contact-tracing-initiative. I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for making the safety of the campus a priority. When we all do our part and take precautionary measures, we protect everyone.

I also want to remind you about the importance of the safety protocols we have in place for community members permitted to be on campus. Those approved to return to campus must:

Complete the COVID-19 Screening Checklist each time they attend York
Wear a non-medical mouth and nose covering in shared spaces and within buildings
Practise physical distancing and hand hygiene.

If you are symptomatic, you should contact Toronto Public Health, Telehealth Ontario, or your doctor, for advice as soon as possible. If you become ill and live in residence, go immediately to your room to self-isolate, contact reslife@yorku.ca, your Don or Community Assistant on duty to report your symptoms. Residents are provided immediate direction and support. If you are a student experiencing anxiety or stress, please reach out to Student Counselling & Development at 416-736-5297 or visit the website https://counselling.students.yorku.ca/ to learn about remote access of services.

For faculty and staff in need of support, please call the Employee and Family Assistance Program toll-free 24 hours a day, seven days a week for immediate, confidential help at 1-800-268-5211; TTY Service is available at 1-800-363-6270.

As always, individuals who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or feeling ill in general are requested to not attend our campuses.

For the most current information, we encourage community members to visit the Better Together website on a regular basis.

Sincerely,
Rhonda L. Lenton
President and Vice-Chancellor

 

Chère communauté de York,

Le Bureau de santé publique de Toronto (TPH) surveille et rapporte quotidiennement les cas positifs de COVID-19, y compris les cas combinés par quartiers. Ce rapport nous indique qu’il y a un nombre élevé de cas positifs dans le quartier voisin du campus Keele, qui est connu sous le nom de York University Heights. Par conséquent, j’aimerais réitérer les précautions importantes que nous devons tous continuer à prendre pour assurer notre sécurité et vous rappeler le rôle joué par York.

L’Université York suit toujours les directives de la santé publique et du gouvernement. Ce printemps, l’Université a pris la décision d’offrir plus de 97 % de ses 3 500 cours de premier cycle en ligne et à distance pour l’année universitaire 2020/2021. C’est en partie grâce à cette mesure proactive que le nombre de cas sur notre campus a pu rester faible. Toutefois, nous devons demeurer vigilants.

Dans son bilan quotidien, la médecin-hygiéniste de la Ville de Toronto souligne continuellement l’importance de :

  • La distanciation physique : maintenir 2 mètres (6 pieds) de distance entre les personnes ou porter un couvre-visage;
  • L’obligation de porter un couvre-visage dans les lieux publics intérieurs;
  • Se laver fréquemment les mains avec du savon et de l’eau et/ou utiliser un désinfectant pour les mains.

L’Université York continue de collaborer étroitement avec le TPH et de prendre des mesures actives pour assurer la sécurité des membres de sa communauté et les tenir informés autant que possible. Récemment, nous avons ajouté une page à notre site Web Better Together qui fournit un bilan quotidien du nombre de cas positifs de COVID-19 parmi des personnes ayant fréquenté récemment le campus. Le site Web donne également plus de détails sur les mesures prises par le TPH pour évaluer les risques existants pour les membres de la communauté de l’Université York et pour conseiller l’Université ou les individus à propos des mesures d’atténuation devant être prises.

Nous avons également mis en place des plans d’urgence pour répondre à un certain nombre de scénarios possibles afin de déterminer, d’isoler et de maîtriser les situations relatives à la santé et la sécurité qui pourraient concerner les personnes visitant nos campus et celles qui y vivent.

Lorsque des diagnostics positifs de COVID-19 sont signalés à l’Université, nous avertissons immédiatement le TPH qui se charge de la recherche des contacts et de la gestion des cas. La recherche des contacts, la notification et le suivi font partie du processus utilisé par le TPH pour identifier, informer et encadrer toute personne ayant eu un contact étroit avec une personne infectée par le virus de la COVID-19. Si le TPH détermine qu’il existe un risque communautaire potentiel de transmission, l’Université suit les directives du Bureau de santé publique pour limiter ce risque.

Tout cas confirmé de COVID-19 sera contacté par le TPH et prié de s’auto-isoler immédiatement. La recherche des contacts permet au TPH d’identifier les personnes avec lesquelles l’individu a été en contact étroit et qui ont potentiellement été exposées au virus. Le TPH assure également une surveillance quotidienne active des cas confirmés et fournit à chaque individu des instructions, notamment sur la manière de s’autosurveiller et de prévenir toute nouvelle propagation jusqu’à ce que le cas positif soit résolu et que la période d’isolement prenne fin. Le TPH ne divulgue pas systématiquement les endroits fréquentés par la personne ayant le COVID-19 à moins qu’il existe un risque particulier empêchant l’identification des personnes — par exemple, les passagers d’un autobus dans lequel se trouvait un cas positif.

Pour plus d’information, veuillez visiter https://www.publichealthontario.ca/fr/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus/contact-tracing-initiative. Je tiens à profiter de cette occasion pour vous remercier d’avoir donné la priorité à la sécurité du campus. En faisant tous un effort et en prenant des précautions, nous protégeons tout le monde.

Je veux aussi vous rappeler l’importance des protocoles de sécurité que nous avons mis en place pour les membres de la communauté qui sont autorisés à être sur le campus. Toute personne autorisée à revenir sur le campus doit :

Remplir le questionnaire de dépistage de la COVID-19 chaque fois qu’elle vient à York.
Porter un couvre-visage non médical dans les espaces partagés et les bâtiments.
Pratiquer la distanciation physique et une bonne hygiène des mains.

Si vous présentez des symptômes, vous devriez contacter le plus rapidement possible le TPH, Télésanté Ontario ou votre médecin pour obtenir des conseils. Si vous vivez en résidence et vous tombez malade, rendez-vous immédiatement dans votre chambre pour vous isoler et contactez reslife@yorku.ca, votre responsable de résidence (Don) ou l’assistant/assistante communautaire de service pour leur rapporter vos symptômes. Les résidents et résidentes reçoivent une assistance et un soutien immédiats. Si vous êtes étudiante ou étudiante et vous éprouvez de l’anxiété ou du stress, veuillez contacter le Student Counselling & Development Centre au 416-736-5297 ou visitez le site Web https://counselling.students.yorku.ca/ pour en savoir plus sur l’accès aux services à distance. Pour le Centre accessibilité, bien-être et counseling de Glendon, composez le 416-487-6709 ou envoyez un courriel à counselling@glendon.yorku.ca.

Les membres du corps professoral et du personnel ayant besoin de soutien peuvent contacter le Programme d’aide aux employés et à la famille en composant le 1-800-268-5211, 7 jours sur 7 et 24 heures sur 24 pour obtenir immédiatement une assistance confidentielle. Service ATS : 1-800-363-6270.

Comme toujours, les personnes qui présentent les symptômes de la COVID-19 ou qui se sentent malades en général ne doivent pas fréquenter nos campus.

Pour obtenir les informations les plus récentes, nous encourageons les membres de la communauté à visiter régulièrement le site Better Together.

Veuillez agréer mes sincères salutations,

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

York University launches a brand strategy to reflect its distinct identity in the higher education landscape

new brand featured image

new brand featured imagePresident and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton issues the following message to the York University community: 

La version française suit la version anglaise.

Dear Members of the York Community,

York University has a bold vision captured in our University Academic Plan, Strategic Research Plan and other foundational planning documents. I am pleased to announce that we now also have our first-ever brand strategy to capture the distinctive identity underpinning that vision. At Monday’s virtual town hall, I had the opportunity to share this important, forward-looking work that will help position the University for long-term success.

We spent considerable time last year understanding what our many different stakeholder audiences felt was special and unique about York University, and also what they felt was of the greatest importance to them in a university. Our evidence-based approach was critical to ensuring a clear, credible and differentiated articulation of our shared sense of purpose and identity.

I believe that by providing this clarity, both to those who are part of the York community and those external to York, the value we bring to students and to the world will be clear, enhancing our reputation, driving enrolment and attracting funding and strategic partnerships. Most importantly, it is an opportunity for us to recognize and celebrate our many achievements and contributions as a community as we look to strengthen our efforts to address the challenges ahead.

Our distinctive identity is very much aligned with the new University Academic Plan 2020-2025 (UAP). It reflects our shared commitment to driving positive change for our students, our communities and the world around us, through our research and its application, the development of curriculum to reflect the needs of the 21st-century global knowledge economy, implementing innovative student learning practices, and engagement with the communities we serve.

Solidifying our identity requires a collective commitment to continually strengthen how we take up the challenges outlined in the UAP. This commitment includes contributions to the global effort to meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and to tackle urgent issues like inequality, racism and climate change. York recently ranked 33rd out of 767 universities worldwide in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, but we can do better. Fully realizing our distinctive identity requires the engagement of the entire York community. Every one of us – students, faculty and staff – are York ambassadors. Together, we can deliver on our promise to drive positive change.

Over the coming weeks and months, members of the York community will see the brand come to life in many ways. In the meantime, I encourage you to learn more about York University’s new brand strategy by watching a short video (https://yulink-new.yorku.ca/) which captures our evidence-based process.

Sincerely,

Rhonda L. Lenton
President and Vice-Chancellor

York lance une stratégie de marque repensée

Chers membres de la communauté de York,

L’Université York a une vision audacieuse qui se reflète dans son plan académique universitaire, son plan de recherche stratégique et d’autres documents de planification clés. Je suis heureuse d’annoncer que nous avons maintenant également notre toute première stratégie de marque pour mettre en valeur l’identité distinctive qui appuie cette vision. Durant la conversation communautaire virtuelle de lundi, j’ai eu l’occasion de vous parler de ce travail important, orienté vers l’avenir, qui nous aidera à positionner l’Université pour un succès à long terme.

L’année dernière, nous avons consacré beaucoup de temps à déterminer ce que nos différents auditoires considéraient comme particulier et unique à propos de York, ainsi que ce qui leur semblait le plus important dans une université. Notre approche fondée sur des preuves était essentielle pour assurer une articulation claire, crédible et différenciée de notre vocation et notre identité communes.

Je pense qu’en apportant cette clarté, tant à ceux qui font partie de la communauté de York qu’à ceux qui n’en font pas partie, la valeur que nous apportons au corps étudiant et au monde sera manifeste et améliorera notre réputation, accroîtra les inscriptions et attirera des financements et des partenariats stratégiques. Mais surtout, c’est l’occasion pour nous de reconnaître et de célébrer nos nombreuses réalisations et contributions en tant que communauté, alors que nous nous employons à renforcer nos efforts pour relever les défis à venir.

Notre identité distincte s’aligne tout à fait sur le nouveau plan académique de l’Université 2020-2025 (PAU). Elle reflète notre engagement commun à susciter des changements positifs pour nos étudiants, pour nos communautés et pour le monde qui nous entoure, grâce à nos recherches et à leurs applications, à l’élaboration de programmes d’études reflétant les besoins de l’économie mondiale du savoir au 21e siècle, à la mise en œuvre de pratiques d’apprentissage innovantes pour les étudiants et à notre engagement avec les communautés que nous servons.

La consolidation de notre identité exige un engagement collectif pour renforcer continuellement la manière dont nous relevons les défis énoncés dans le PAU. Cet engagement englobe des contributions à l’effort mondial visant à atteindre les objectifs de développement durable des Nations Unies et à s’attaquer à des problèmes urgents tels que l’inégalité, le racisme et le changement climatique. York s’est récemment classée 33e sur 767 universités du monde entier au palmarès Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, mais nous pouvons faire mieux. La pleine réalisation de notre identité distinctive nécessite l’engagement de toute la communauté de York. Chacun d’entre nous — corps étudiant, corps professoral et personnel — est un ambassadeur de York. Ensemble, nous pouvons tenir notre promesse de susciter un changement positif.

Au cours des semaines et des mois à venir, les membres de la communauté de York verront la marque prendre vie de nombreuses façons. Entre-temps, je vous encourage à en apprendre davantage sur la nouvelle stratégie de marque de l’Université York en regardant une courte vidéo (https://yulink-new.yorku.ca/) qui illustre notre processus fondé sur des preuves.

Veuillez agréer mes sincères salutations,

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière 

Updates on resources, supports and opportunities for York community provided at fall Virtual Town Hall

Vari Hall
York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton

Students, staff and faculty had an opportunity to ask York University’s senior leadership team questions about the new term and their academic, research and professional work during the all-community Virtual Town Hall on Sept. 21.

The event featured President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton, Provost and Vice-President Academic Lisa Philipps, Vice-President Research & Innovation Amir Asif, Vice-President Equity, People and Culture Sheila Cote-Meek, Vice-President Finance and Administration Carol McAulay, Vice-President Advancement Jeff O’Hagan and Vice-Provost Students Lucy Fromowitz, answering questions received through Zoom and by email.

Following a land acknowledgement, Lenton began her opening remarks by welcoming the participants to a new academic year and emphasizing that decision-making by University leadership throughout the pandemic has prioritized the safety and wellbeing of the York community. The president encouraged the use of COVID-19 tracking apps and discussed protective measures such as plexiglass barriers that have been installed to protect those accessing campuses. Lenton assured participants that the YU Better Together website, which includes a new COVID-19 case counter, has resources to keep the community fully informed about the ongoing pandemic response.

Lenton also discussed the recent disruption to the eClass platform and talked about how the UIT team will keep working to improve the performance and reliability of eClass and to prevent disruptions in the future. UIT responded quickly to the disruption and restored performance, such that the system is now working well. The president said that further funds are being invested to enhance York’s IT systems and expertise.

Regarding the University’s strategic priorities, Lenton provided an update on scenario planning around enrolment challenges and potential budget impacts, noting that the outlook has improved considerably since the spring and that York is on track to meet targets, an impressive accomplishment for the entire community.

The president also spoke to the new academic plan (UAP) for 2020 to 2025, outlining strategies to overcome the harmful legacy of systemic anti-Black racism in the context of a new Equity Plan for the University, conversations to inform an Anti-Black Racism Frameworkand the appointment of Professor Carl James as senior advisor, equity and representation, in the Division of Equity, People and Culture.

To close her remarks, Lenton discussed York’s new brand strategy, which aligns with the UAP, and centres on how York is committed to driving positive change in the world around us. Over the coming weeks and months, she said that community members can expect to see the brand come to life in many ways through training, updates on key institutional projects and a new communication campaign with vibrant new visuals and stories.

The interactive portion of the town hall began with a question from a student about which libraries and food facilities on campus will be open with social distancing protocols. McAulay answered by directing community members to the YU Better Together website, which she indicated has the most up to date information about specific buildings and services that are operating. Philipps added that library spaces are available for booking for those who require a quiet study space on campus, with more information available on the York University Libraries website.

In response to a number of questions about the opening of the archives and whether the libraries will allow students to take out and return books, Philipps elaborated that the libraries have done extensive work to expand the range of resources available electronically though agreements with publishers and a digitization service. She outlined a curbside pickup service for those who need to take out books that aren’t available digitally.

One participant asked a live question about plans for the winter term and whether most classes will be online or in person. Lenton responded to the question with assurances that, in order for everyone to know what to expect as soon as possible, a decision was made to continue with the same format and provisions as the fall term, with the majority of courses being offered online. For courses that require in-person instruction, Lenton discussed the agreement that information would be clearly marked on course outline so that students would know about their requirements and what safety precautions are being put in place. Philipps added that a survey of instructors is wrapping up so that this information will be available for students before they enrol in winter courses.

Participants asked many questions about international studies, including when international students can expect to be able to travel to Canada and experience in-person classes and when domestic students will know whether than they can participate in winter term exchanges abroad. Lenton shared that York was the first University to submit a plan to the federal government about how they would potentially support incoming international students in the quarantine process, and that the York leadership continue to work with other universities and the government to coordinate future planning. Despite uncertainty around the opening of borders, Lenton assured students that York is ready to be responsive.

One community member asked whether York will consider funding a campus-wide automated closed captioning capability for Zoom to support universal design for learning, which the president welcomed and committed to posting a fulsome answer after an opportunity for a conversation.

Several participants asked about how the community would be notified and what steps would be taken in the event that students and employees were exposed to individual who tested positive for COVID-19. Fromowitz outlined protocols in place to protect those who have been on campus, including contact tracing, immediate notification, self-isolation rooms for students in residence and updates on the YU Better Together website.

A question was asked live about York’s next steps to implement the aspects of the UAP that recognize the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the need to reorient education toward sustainability. Philipps spoke to the desire for ongoing engagement to determine how energies should be directed, staff resources assigned to continue the conversation and resources available through the Academic Innovation Fund. Asif elaborated that information would be brought forward about initiatives being done in collaboration with the UN and encourages interested students to contact his office about opportunities to work on aspects of the SDGs. Lenton added that she is excited so see how the University community will come together to think about how to make a profound difference.

Staff had questions related to remote working and how the University leadership envisions the future of the workplace, which Cote-Meek addressed by discussing opportunities to work on an employee-centred remote work policy in the near future. Lenton added that some of these issues are covered in collective agreements and that these conversations will take place with employee groups and unions. A question also arose regarding whether the University has explored early retirement for members under the York pension plan. Cote-Meek said a voluntary exit program is being explored. McAulay added that York’s pension plan would not be a vehicle for such a program as retirement age is determined by the plan.

Further to the president’s earlier remarks, several participants had questions regarding support for students and faculty using eClass. The president reiterated that that the system is behaving reliably and that it has been able to manage trials with more capacity than the current peak usage experienced in the first week of classes. Philipps encouraged users to explore information and support services available on eClass, such as a chat function. Fromowitz directed participants to a recently developed Student Guide to Remote Learning for further support.

In response to questions about students experiencing financial challenges, Lenton provided information on York University Emergency Bursaries available to students and the University’s goal of continuing to support that fund. O’Hagan provided an update on the tremendous support from the York community in helping students through this difficult time, noting that $425,000 has been raised for the Emergency COVID-19 Student Relief Fund through contributions, with matching from the University. Fromowitz explained that bursary funds are being expanded for the fall and that students can apply for financial supports through the Student Financial Profile through Student Financial Services.

Lenton closed the town hall by reminding all members of the York community to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing, and outlining remote resources to support their success, including academic support and counselling services, Teaching Commons workshops and information available at yorku.ca/MentalHealth and yorku.ca/BetterTogether.

The town hall livestream can be viewed at https://conversations.info.yorku.ca/first-page/webcast/.

York University breaks new ground in Markham

Markham Centre Campus FEATURED image

Underpinned by strong provincial, regional and municipal government support and reinforced by a traditional ceremony that took place in 2018 to formally acknowledge the traditional Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, construction on York University’s Markham Centre Campus officially began Sept. 22 with a groundbreaking event at the site for the $275.5-million project, expected to open in fall 2023.

The official groundbreaking ceremony featured representatives from all levels of government and York President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton (centre)

President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton was joined by supporters of the project representing all levels of government. Present at the ceremony were: Minister of Colleges and Universities Ross Romano; Markham-Unionville MPP Billy Pang; York Region Chairman Wayne Emmerson; Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti; and representing the federal government, Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion and International Trade and the MP for Markham-Thornhill Mary Ng.

The Ontario government announced its approval for the project in late July and site preparation work began immediately for the new campus, which will offer up to 4,200 students in the first phase a range of professionally relevant degree programs and micro-credentials.

York Region is projected to have the highest growth rate in Ontario in the 18 to 22-year-old population, increasing by 34 per cent by 2041, so Markham Centre Campus will offer students a university education close to home with work integrated learning opportunities in their communities.

York University Board of Governors Chair Paul Tsaparis with President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti
York University Board of Governors Chair Paul Tsaparis (left) with President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti

“Through the new Markham Centre Campus, York University will be helping meet the future needs of York Region by offering innovative new programs, work-integrated learning and community-engaged research,” said Lenton. “By creating new opportunities for higher learning and entrepreneurship in the heart of one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions, the new campus will continue York’s longstanding role in building more prosperous, inclusive and resilient communities.”

The 10-storey, 400,000 square foot campus building, which will be located near the corner of Enterprise Boulevard and Rivis Road in Markham, was designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects. Construction manager on the project is Stuart Olson Ltd. The built form will be a five-storey podium with a five-storey tower above, clad in bronze-anodized aluminum, with welcoming and flexible indoor spaces and a Campus Green for outdoor gatherings.

“The Ontario government is pleased to support, through the updated Major Capacity Expansion Framework, York University’s new Markham Centre Campus,” said Romano.  “This new campus will help ensure the people of York Region have further access to higher education to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Some of the milestones during construction include the following:

  • The enabling works − excavation, piles and shoring – begin immediately.
  • Construction of the building’s foundation and superstructure starts in December of 2021.
  • The building will be closed in during the spring of 2022.
  • Completion and move-in is scheduled for August 2023.

“The York University Markham Centre Campus will be York Region’s first public university and complements Markham’s highly skilled, highly educated and diverse workforce,” said Scarpitti. “It will provide students with the necessary education, skills and training they need for the jobs of the future, and will provide them with workplace-based learning opportunities while they study in collaboration with local information and communication technology (ICT) companies. This will strengthen our position as a hub for innovation, while driving the prosperity of the Province, York Region and the City of Markham.” 

Markham Centre Campus FEATURED image
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton with Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti

York University introduced a comprehensive Social Procurement Policy in January to reflect its values of equity, inclusivity and social justice by ensuring that projects such as the Markham Centre Campus support local economic and social development. The University is inviting organizations to register as a Diverse Vendor or Social Enterprise to supply goods and services for the construction of the new campus.

“Supporting and attracting post-secondary education and research opportunities has long been a priority for York Regional Council. As one of the largest business communities in Ontario and Canada’s second largest tech hub, York Region is where talent and opportunity intersect,” said Emmerson. “Together, with the Government of Ontario, York University and the City of Markham, we are strengthening opportunities for students and showcasing York Region as a destination of choice for higher learning.”

Dr Lenton responds to media questions about the new Markham Centre Campus
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton responds to media questions about York University’s new Markham Centre Campus

New programs to be offered at the Markham Centre Campus will feature a blend of technology and business. Degree programs and microcredentials will be part of the programming offered. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in strong experiential learning in high demand areas such as digital technologies, business, entrepreneurship, new media, communications and data analytics.

Public, private and government partnerships and a focus on learning that provides students with essential real-world skills will be part of the DNA of the new Markham Centre Campus. Innovation York and the University’s community innovation hub, YSpace, are already firmly rooted in Markham and York Region, and in 2019, academic programming in Markham began in the IBM Canada headquarters.

To learn more, visit https://www.yorku.ca/markham/.

Reminder: Virtual Town Hall on Monday, Sept. 21

Vari Hall new image
Vari Hall new image

The following is a message to the community from York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton:

La version française suit la version anglaise.

I am writing to remind you that the first Virtual Town Hall of the academic year takes place Monday, Sept. 21.

We look forward to coming together as a community to connect and discuss the University’s plans and initiatives. Please submit questions in advance of the event using this form.

Date: Monday, Sept. 21

Time: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Zoom Webinar: https://yorku.zoom.us/j/93072822686?pwd=SjJZYXY1Z1BVNzNRVUd0RlEvRU9CUT09

Webinar ID: 930 7282 2686

Telephone Dial-In:  647-374-4685

Password: 742065

Livestream: https://conversations.info.yorku.ca/first-page/webcast/

Vice-President Academic and Provost Lisa Philipps, Vice-President Finance and Administration Carol McAulay, Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif, Vice-President Equity, People & Culture Sheila Cote-Meek, Vice-President Advancement Jeff O’Hagan and Vice-Provost Students Lucy Fromowitz will also be in attendance to help answer your questions.

If you have any accessibility needs, notes or comments, please let us know.

We will be hosting this Town Hall via the video conferencing platform, Zoom Webinar. You can learn about downloading and using Zoom here. The webinar will also be livestreamed on the Town Hall website.

The latest community updates, resources and answers to frequently asked questions can always be found on our YU Better Together website.

I look forward to your questions.

Sincerely,

Rhonda L. Lenton 
President & Vice-Chancellor

RAPPEL: Conversation communautaire virtuelle le lundi 21 septembre

 

Je vous écris pour vous rappeler que vous êtes invités à la première conversation virtuelle de l’année universitaire qui aura lieu le lundi 21 septembre.

Nous nous réjouissons de réunir la communauté pour prendre contact et discuter des projets et initiatives de l’Université. Veuillez soumettre vos questions à l’avance à l’aide de ce formulaire.

Date: Lundi 21 septembre

Heure: 14 h 30 à 15 h 45 

Webinaire Zoom: https://yorku.zoom.us/j/93072822686?pwd=SjJZYXY1Z1BVNzNRVUd0RlEvRU9CUT09

Code du webinaire: 930 7282 2686

Numéro de téléphone: 647-374-4685

Mot de passe: 742065

Lien pour la diffusion en direct: https://conversations.info.yorku.ca/first-page/webcast/

La rectrice et vice-présidente aux affaires académiques, Lisa Philipps, la vice-présidente aux finances et à l’administration, Carol McAulay, le vice-président de la recherche et de l’innovation, Amir Asif, la vice-présidente de l’équité, des personnes et de la culture, Sheila Cote-Meek, le vice-président à la promotion, Jeff O’Hagan, et la vice-rectrice aux affaires étudiantes, Lucy Fromowitz, seront également présents pour m’aider à répondre à vos questions.

Si vous avez des besoins, des remarques ou des commentaires en matière d’accessibilité, veuillez nous le faire savoir.

Cette conversation communautaire aura lieu grâce à la plateforme de visioconférence Zoom Webinar. Vous pouvez télécharger Zoom et apprendre à vous servir ici. Le webinaire sera également diffusé en direct sur le site Web des conversations communautaires.

Vous pouvez trouver les dernières mises à jour, ressources et réponses aux questions fréquemment posées sur notre site Web YU Better Together.

J’attends vos questions avec impatience.

Veuillez agréer mes sincères salutations,

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière

 

New dean appointed to the Faculty of Education

Drone image shows Vari Hall and the Ross Building on Keele Campus

York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton issues the following announcement:

I am pleased to inform members of the Faculty of Education and the York community that the search for dean of the Faculty of Education has reached a successful conclusion.

In 2019, I established a search committee, comprised of members of the Faculty of Education (faculty, staff and students), one member appointed by me, and chaired by Provost Lisa Philipps. The committee undertook an extensive national and international search which attracted outstanding candidates.

Dr. Robert Savage
Dr. Robert Savage

On Sept. 9, the Executive Committee of the Board of Governors concurred with my recommendation, based on the recommendation of the search committee, that Dr. Robert Savage be appointed to the position of dean. I am delighted to announce that Dr. Savage has accepted our invitation to take up a five-year term appointment, commencing July 1, 2021.

Dr. Savage brings significant leadership and international experience to the deanship. He will join York University from University College London, a leading U.K. research and teaching university, whose Institute of Education has ranked first in Education for the past seven years in the QS World University subject rankings.

He is a full professor at UCL and has served as head of the Department of Psychology and Human Development in its Institute of Education since 2017. As head, he has been responsible for all aspects of departmental leadership and administration, including budget and human resources management and oversight, strategic plan development and implementation, and space and technology planning. He has led a renewal of the department’s pedagogical vision and reputation, a doubling of successful research grant applications, and revitalization of its collegial governance structures and partnerships with communities. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to equity and inclusivity. Before his appointment at UCL, Dr. Savage held an appointment at McGill University from 2003 to 2017, undertaking several administrative roles including program director inclusive education and program director human development.

Dr. Savage holds a PhD in developmental experimental psychology, as well as an MSc in professional educational psychology, from the University of London; he also has a post-graduate certificate in education from Cambridge University. He brings to the position of dean an excellent teaching record, having taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses on language and literacy development, inclusive education and exceptionalities; and an outstanding international reputation for collaborative, multi-disciplinary and policy-relevant scholarship in areas such as cognitive processes in reading and spelling, reading interventions, learning disabilities, inclusive education, the impact of French immersion and information technologies for literacy. He is the author or co-author of over 100 highly cited peer-reviewed journal and web articles, chapters and reviews, and frequently presents his research to international conferences. He is currently serving as president of the Society for Scientific Study of Reading.

It is an important time in the development of the Faculty of Education, as it builds on its teaching and research successes and its outstanding reputation to provide leadership concerning pressing social issues like anti-Black racism, Indigenous education and educational innovation in the current challenging context.

I look forward to welcoming Dr. Savage and working closely with him in the coming years. I invite all members of the Faculty and the University to join me in congratulating him and wishing him well as he undertakes this important leadership role.

Sharon Murphy will continue in the role of interim dean of the Faculty of Education until Dr. Savage takes office. I want to express my profound appreciation to Professor Murphy for her outstanding service to the Faculty and the University in this role.

Finally, I would like to thank the members of the search committee for their contributions to this crucial process.

President’s University-Wide Teaching Award recipients exemplify excellence

the word teach spelled out in scrabble blocks

Four exceptional York University faculty members who have demonstrated enthusiasm and innovative approaches to teaching have been named the recipients of the President’s University-Wide Teaching Awards (PUWTA).

This year’s recipients are: Professor Paula Wilson in the Department of Biology in the Faculty of Science; Michael Boni, an assistant professor in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science in the Faculty of Health; Lee Frew, a contract faculty member in the Department of English at Glendon College; and Roger Carrick, a teaching assistant in the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Lassonde School of Engineering.

York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton

“As we moved to online and remote formats in the face of the pandemic, York’s instructors have remained innovative and resilient. They have continued to provide high-impact and transformative learning experiences, connected to the future needs of the workforce and focused on finding solutions to the urgent challenges facing our society,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton. “On behalf of all of us at the University, I want to congratulate this year’s recipients of the University-Wide Teaching Awards and thank them for their unwavering commitment to student success.”

The awards are adjudicated by the Senate Committee on Awards with the goal of providing recognition for excellence in teaching, encouraging its pursuit, publicizing such excellence and promoting informed discussion of teaching and its improvement. The awards demonstrate the value York University attaches to teaching.

Recipients of the awards receive $3,000, have their names engraved on the University-Wide Teaching Award plaques in Vari Hall and are recognized at convocation ceremonies.

President’s University-Wide Teaching Award recipients

Paula Wilson
Paula Wilson

Professor Paula Wilson of the Faculty of Science is the recipient in the full-time tenured faculty with 10 or more years of full-time teaching experience category. Wilson is a member of the molecular and cellular biology (MCB) group at York University. The group is comprised of researchers utilizing forefront biochemical and molecular techniques to probe the structure and function of various biomolecules and cell biological processes. Topics as diverse as plant and human viruses, cancer, circadian rhythms, structure of signaling molecules and cellular differentiation are studied by group members.

Wilson’s nominators highlighted her dedication and deep commitment to engaging biology students in the classroom by way of clear learning outcomes and active learning strategies. Wilson was also praised by her nominators for her support of teaching and learning broadly in the Department of Biology and the Faculty of Science. Her contributions to curricular innovation, including the creation of a biomedical science stream and the development of resources to assist first-year students with the transition to university.

Michael Boni

Faculty of Heath assistant professor Michael Boni received the award in the full-time faculty with less than 10 years teaching experience category. Boni is a highly experienced certified athletic therapist and physiotherapist with a passion for guiding people towards success. He graduated from York University with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and health science and a certificate in athletic therapy and a completed his post-professional doctor of science degree in the field of physical therapy. His clinical treatment expertise is in the field of manual therapy focusing on neck, shoulder and back pain. Most of his time is focused on educating and mentoring athletic therapists, physiotherapists and kinesiology students. He is an examiner and chief instructor within the post-graduate diploma program of Advanced Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. His research explores the effect of soft tissue mobilization (non-painful friction massage) on muscle function. Boni has also been collaborating on various pedagogical research projects.

Boni’s nominators praised his work to create a rich learning environment for students using various technologies and hands-on learning opportunities. In addition, they lauded his contributions to curricular innovation particularly through Boni’s leadership on the restructuring of the certificate in athletic therapy has strengthened student learning and the development of critical thinking skills.

Lee Frew
Lee Frew

As the recipient of the PUWTA in the contract faculty category, Lee Frew, a faculty member in the Department of English at Glendon College, specializes in Canadian literature, postcolonial literatures and ecocriticism. Frew earned his doctorate from York University in 2011.

His nominators praised his proficiency in creating an academically rigorous learning environment that is also a safe and inclusive space for students to express and hear a wide range of perspectives. In addition, they spoke highly of his contributions to the Department of English, through the design of new courses. His nominators commended Frew for his role in benefiting the Glendon Campus community through his role as Chair of committee charged with investigating the introduction of a common first-year curriculum across the Faculty, and his work to improve the student experience at York and promote excellence in teaching and learning.

Roger Carrick
Roger Carrick

Roger Carrick, a teaching assistant in the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Lassonde School of Engineering, is the recipient of the PUWTA in the Teaching Assistant category. The award honours teaching assistants who have significantly enhanced the quality of learning for York students. Carrick’s nominators spoke of his leadership as a teaching assistant through his contributions to the development of course material, such as lab manuals, tutorials and assignments and his delivery of several lectures independently. They spoke with high regard of his continued and focused support of students and his deep commitment to curricular development that enhances the student experience at the Lassonde School of Engineering.

Carrick is the designer-in-residence in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the Lassonde School of Engineering. He holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Waterloo. Carrick has spent the last three years focusing on enhancing the training of engineers through student-centered learning, mentorship and outreach programs. He is active in the engineering education community, working primarily on enhancing pedagogical theory and promoting design thinking.

To learn more about the President’s University-Wide Teaching Awards criteria and past recipients, visit https://secretariat.info.yorku.ca/senate/awards-committee/presidents-university-wide-teaching-awards/.

President Lenton extends a warm welcome to the 2020-21 academic year

Rhonda L. Lenton

The following is a message to the University community from York President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton:

Dear York Community,

Welcome to the first day of an academic year, unlike any other in the history of York University.

2020-21 will not only be unique because the vast majority of courses will be delivered remotely. As a community, we are beginning this academic year with a renewed sense of who we are, what is important to us and how much we are truly capable of achieving.

An image showing seven members of the York U community in conversation with President Lenton
Watch the video welcome message

York’s motto is Tentanda Via: The way must be tried. As I reflect on our community’s response to a global pandemic through the spring and summer semesters, I can say with confidence that we are continuing to live up to the spirit of that bold statement of purpose, made 61 years ago. In the face of challenges and anxieties created by COVID-19, we adapted, innovated and persevered. I am grateful to be part of a community that continued to pursue academic, research and professional excellence while always looking out for one another, our friends and our families.

I know many of you are also beginning the year with the global fight against racism on your minds. Over the year, York will engage in an ongoing process of listening, learning and acting to confront the harmful legacy of institutional racism in Canadian society and to advance equity, diversity and inclusion in everything we do as an institution. I hope you will add your voice, experience and perspective to this crucial conversation.

We are a community of change leaders. I continue to be inspired by the students, staff, faculty and alumni making a positive difference in the world around us. Through the pandemic and beyond, we are using teaching, research, volunteerism, entrepreneurship and innovation to build more diverse, inclusive and resilient communities, both here at home and around the world.

If you are joining the University this fall, I know you likely imagined a different beginning to your journey at York. But even as we work remotely, the University is facilitating valuable experiential teaching and learning experiences, innovative research discoveries, and opportunities for all community members to engage with one another in a variety of ways.

Aside from a number of courses that need to be offered in-person in order to meet the student learning outcomes, we are working hard to explore safe ways to connect over the fall and winter terms. Some professors may be able to offer voluntary activities on our campuses to supplement online courses, staff will be available both remotely and in-person to meet the diverse needs of our students, and we expect there to be research and work-integrated learning opportunities both virtually and in-person.

My colleagues and I will also be holding information sessions throughout the academic year. I hope you will join me for the first Virtual Town Hall in 2020-2021 on Monday, Sept. 21, and get ready to show your #LionPride as part of our Red & White celebrations in October.

Please rest assured that we will continue to communicate regularly with you, and you can always find the latest updates, lists of resources and services, and answers to frequently asked questions on our YU Better Together website. I also encourage you to connect and engage with me on Twitter and Instagram @YorkUPresident.

If you find yourself in need of support this year, reach out to us. The pandemic is ongoing, and York will continue to be flexible and compassionate so that we can all prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our community.

I wish you the very best for good health and success in the 2020-21 academic year.

Sincerely,

Rhonda L. Lenton
President & Vice-Chancellor

La présidente Lenton vous souhaite la bienvenue pour l’année universitaire 2020-2021

Chers membres de la communauté de York,

Bienvenue en ce premier jour d’une année universitaire inédite dans l’histoire de l’Université York.

Ce qui rend l’année 2020-2021 vraiment unique, c’est non seulement le fait que la plupart des cours seront donnés à distance, mais aussi le sentiment renouvelé de qui nous sommes, de ce qui est important à nos yeux et des tâches que nous sommes capables de réaliser en tant que communauté.

An image showing seven members of the York U community in conversation with President Lenton
Regardez notre vidéo de bienvenue 

La devise de York est Tentanda Via: ouvrir des voies nouvelles. Lorsque je repense à la réponse de notre communauté à la pandémie mondiale durant les trimestres de printemps et d’été, je peux dire avec conviction que nous nous montrons à la hauteur de cette déclaration audacieuse faite il y a 61 ans. Face aux défis et aux préoccupations résultant de la COVID-19, nous nous sommes adaptés, nous avons innové et nous avons persévéré. Je suis profondément reconnaissante de faire partie d’une communauté dont les membres ne cessent de viser l’excellence académique, professionnelle et en matière de recherche tout en veillant sur les autres, leurs amis et leurs familles.

Je sais que beaucoup d’entre vous débutent aussi l’année avec le combat mondial contre le racisme à l’esprit. Tout au long de l’année universitaire, York s’engagera dans un processus continu d’écoute, d’apprentissage et d’action pour combattre l’héritage nocif du racisme institutionnel dans la société canadienne et pour faire progresser l’équité, la diversité et l’inclusion dans toutes nos activités. J’espère que vous ajouterez votre voix, votre expérience et votre point de vue à cette conversation cruciale.

Nous sommes une communauté d’acteurs du changement. Je suis constamment inspirée par les contributions positives des membres du corps étudiant, du personnel, du corps professoral et des diplômés au monde qui nous entoure. Tout au cours de la pandémie et au-delà, nous mettons à profit l’enseignement, la recherche, le bénévolat, l’esprit d’entreprise et l’innovation pour bâtir des communautés plus diverses, plus inclusives et plus résilientes, au pays et dans le monde entier.

Si vous vous joignez à l’Université cet automne, vous aviez sans doute imaginé un début différent pour votre parcours à York. Toutefois, bien que nous travaillions à distance, l’Université favorise des expériences précieuses d’enseignement et d’apprentissage, des découvertes innovantes dans le cadre de la recherche et des occasions pour tous les membres de la communauté de collaborer de diverses manières.

Hormis quelques cours offerts en personne afin de répondre aux résultats d’apprentissage des étudiants, nous faisons tout notre possible pour explorer des moyens sécuritaires de rester en contact pendant les trimestres d’automne et d’hiver. Certains professeurs souhaiteront peut-être offrir des activités volontaires sur nos campus pour renforcer les cours en ligne; le personnel sera disponible à distance et en personne pour répondre aux divers besoins du corps étudiant; nous prévoyons également la mise en place de possibilités de recherche et d’apprentissage intégré au travail à la fois virtuellement et en personne.

Mes collègues et moi organiserons aussi des séances d’information tout au long de l’année universitaire. J’espère que vous vous joindrez à moi pour la première conversation communautaire de 2020-2021, le lundi 21 septembre, et que vous vous préparez à afficher votre fierté #LionPride dans le cadre des célébrations du jour Rouge et blanc en octobre prochain.

Soyez assurés que nous continuerons à communiquer régulièrement avec vous. Vous pouvez toujours trouver les dernières mises à jour, des listes de ressources et de services, et des réponses aux questions fréquemment posées sur notre site Web YU Better Together. Je vous encourage aussi à me retrouver sur twitter et sur Instagram @YorkUPresident.

Si vous avez besoin d’aide cette année, n’hésitez pas à nous contacter. Alors que la pandémie se poursuit, York continue à faire preuve de flexibilité et de compassion afin que nous puissions tous donner la priorité à la sécurité et au bien-être de notre communauté.

Je vous souhaite une bonne santé et beaucoup de succès pour l’année universitaire 2020-21.

Je vous prie d’agréer mes sincères salutations,

Rhonda L. Lenton
Présidente et vice-chancelière