York U in the news: Omicron, DNA in the air and more

An image of a woman with a laptop that shows the YFile website

Are micro-credentials really the answer? | Canadian HR Reporter
Tracey Taylor-O’Reilly, assistant vice-president of Continuing Studies at York University, was quoted in Canadian HR Reporter Jan. 9.

How scientists can identify rare animals by vacuuming the air | CBC News
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in CBC Jan. 9.

Scientists vacuum zoo animals’ DNA out of the air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in NPR Jan. 9.

At Ferris Wheel Press, Deborah Lau-Yu brings Chinese tradition and Canadian influences to luxury stationery
York University alumna Deborah Lau-Yu was featured in Toronto Star Jan. 9.

Klassen: What will dominate the news in 2022?
Professor Thomas Klassen contributed to London Free Press Jan. 9.

Omicron has completely changed the pandemic — it’s time to change how we respond to it
Steven Hoffman, director of the Global Strategy Lab and a global health law professor at York University, was quoted in CBC Jan. 8.

Sniffing out animal DNA in the air could help monitor endangered species
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in CBC’s Quirks & Quarks Jan. 7.

Saskatchewan Roughriders release Brayden Lenius to pursue NFL opportunities Receiver
York University was mentioned in Cochrane Times Jan. 7.

PUC Services investing $100 million, partners with ASI to reduce carbon footprint
York University alumna Heidi Ivany contributed to SaultOnline.com Jan. 7.

Animals can be detected from DNA in the air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in BBC Jan. 7.

Sucking DNA from air can revolutionize how researchers track biodiversity
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in Treehugger Jan. 7.

Omicron changes a lot of what we knew
Associate Professor Dasantila Golemi-Kotra  spoke to CBC, Ontario Morning, Jan. 7.

DNA through air: Scientists propose new way of tracking endangered animals in the wild
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in The Science Times Jan. 7.

‘Vacuuming animal DNA out of air’ may be a way to track wild endangered species
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare spoke to NPR Jan. 6.

Why Ontario university, college athletes aren’t ‘elite’ is a question province won’t answer  
Christa Eniojukan, head coach of the York Lions women’s basketball program, was quoted in CBC Jan. 11.

What is virtual learning doing to Canadian kids?
Associate Vice-President Research and Professor Rebecca Pillai Riddell spoke to CityNews Jan. 11.

How Winnie-the-Pooh highlights flaws in U.S. copyright law — and what that could mean for
York University Associate Professor Carys Craig was quoted in CBC Jan. 10.

Scholarships available for international and domestic students experiencing challenges during the pandemic
York University was mentioned in The Medium Jan. 10.

Scientists capture airborne animal DNA for first time
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in WIRED Jan. 10.

Blue Jays hire first female coach as Jaime Vieira joins minor-league staff
York University alumna Jaime Vieira was featured in Sportsnet Jan. 10.

York revises plans for campus return amidst Omicron surge
York University was mentioned in Excalibur Jan. 10.

Canadian bobsledder Appiah hopes to break stereotype of what Winter Olympian looks like
York University alumna Cynthia Appiah was featured in CBC Jan 10.

Team Canada launches 2022 Winter Olympics ad campaign as the Games draw closer
York University alumna Cynthia Appiah was featured in The Globe and Mail Jan. 10.

A change in who can offer degrees aimed to stave off Ontario’s nursing crisis. Here’s why it …
York University was mentioned in Waterloo Chronicle Jan. 10.

Near North Board names new Chippewa principal
York University PhD candidate Krista Tucker Petrick was featured in BayToday.ca Jan. 10.

Is online voting reliable?
York University Professor Agnès Whitfield was published in The Lawyer’s Daily Jan. 11.

Musician chronicles the city’s history on Instagram and YouTube with Old Toronto series
York University alumnus Morgan Cameron Ross was featured in Toronto Star Dec. 19.

York, Qatar Universities launch first International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry

Heart image

York University and Qatar University collaborate to launch the first-ever International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry.

With the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, researchers from Qatar and York Universities have led the development of the first International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry (ICRR). Designed for cardiac rehabilitation programs in low-resource settings, programs can assess the quality of their programs and benchmark it against other programs around the world, thereby improving outcomes for patients.

Cardiac rehabilitation is an outpatient chronic disease management program, where a team of experts support patients to adopt life-saving heart-health practices such as exercise, healthy eating, medication adherence and stress management. Participation in these programs improves quality of life, as well as reduces hospitalization and death by 20 per cent.

To ensure that patients get the greatest benefit out of their rehab, international guidelines recommend programs evaluate the quality of their services. The registry enables this, which is particularly important for programs in low- and middle-income countries where resources to do this may not be available, yet there are so many patients to treat. Through the registry, programs can identify areas where they might be struggling, and the registry team will then support them to improve their processes.

Development and now the operation of the registry is led by experts from Qatar University, Karam Turk-Adawi (co-PI), and York University, Professor Sherry L. Grace (co-PI), with others from the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, with financial resources through a collaborative fund by Qatar University, Qatar, and York University, Canada (the International Research Collaborative Co-Fund, IRCC-2020-005). More details about the registry can be found online and are published in the journal Global Heart.

Sherry Grace
Sherry Grace

“A stepwise, evidence-based process was followed to develop the registry,” said Grace, who is also affiliated with University Health Network. “A research protocol was approved, an international panel of experts was convened to finalize the variable list, a governance structure was implemented, and usability testing undertaken to ensure the best registry.”

“The registry will also enable international research, so we can better understand the impact of cardiac rehab in countries where it has never been studied, long-term patient outcomes, what cardiac rehab practices are associated with better outcomes, and what quality improvement strategies work,” said Turk-Adawi.

Qatar’s Professor Al Thani also said that tackling global issues through partnerships is embedded in Qatar University’s strategic plan. “Collaboration with York University and the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation will impact chronic disease management worldwide.”

About ICCPR

The International Council of Cardiovascular and Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) brings together societies around the world dedicated to the secondary prevention of heart diseases. Central to their mission is promoting high-quality cardiac rehabilitation services where they are needed most. Learn more at globalcardiacrehab.com

Year in Review 2021: Top headlines at York University, May to August

2021 stamped on a journal

As a new year emerges, YFile takes a look back on 2021 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 May to August, as chosen by YFile editors.

May

A group of people wearing face masks
York researchers tested several materials to find which one is more efficient at filtering aerosols and more breathable

York researchers test best materials for filtration and breathability in mask inserts
York University researchers tested several materials to find which one is more efficient at filtering aerosols and more breathable for use as a middle layer or filter for cloth-based masks.

York University advances plans to establish a new School of Medicine supported by GTA health and government leaders
York University and Greater Toronto Area (GTA) health sector and local government leaders signalled positive momentum and growing support for a new School of Medicine at York that will focus on training family and community doctors in an integrated setting.

School of Nursing creates new approach to mentorship
An initiative out of the School of Nursing in York University’s Faculty of Health enhanced professional development during the pandemic and shows holds promise for post-pandemic learning and mentorship.

Indigenous students shine online in virtual pilot program
This eight-week virtual pilot program brought together 16 Indigenous students from various countries and communities to learn about their commonalities and differences.

June

An injection of hope: Herd immunity – where are we now?
In this three-part series, YFile investigates the COVID-19 vaccine as an injection of hope for recovery. Read part two, An injection of hope: What we learned from the vaccine rollout; and part three, An injection of hope: COVID-19 and the road to recovery.

York University graduate student receives Trudeau Doctoral Scholarship
Cristina Wood, a PhD candidate in York University’s Department of History, was awarded the prestigious Trudeau Doctoral Scholarship, presented by the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation, which recognizes top doctoral students in Canada and abroad in the fields of humanities and social sciences. This was the first time since 2016 that a York student had been chosen for this scholarship. Several other students were recognized with awards in June, including Health Studies graduate Hanaa Ameer who earned the Murray G. Ross Award, three undergraduate changemakers who received Governor General’s silver medals, and three York graduate students who were awarded Governor General’s Gold Medals.

Schulich Professor David Johnson
Schulich Professor David Johnson is the George Weston Ltd Centre for Sustainable Supply Chains inaugural director (image: Gordon Hawkins)

Schulich launches George Weston Ltd Centre for Sustainable Supply Chains and announces its research Chair
Building on Schulich’s unique Master of Supply Chain Management (MSCM) program, its deep relationships with industry and George Weston Ltd’s world-class expertise in supply chain management, the new centre is poised to be a global leader in supply chain education. David Johnston, program director of the MSCM, was named the new George Weston Ltd Chair for Sustainable Supply Chains and is the centre director.

July

Morgan Fics and Nicole Alexander
Morgan Fics (left) and Nicole Alexander (right)

Like mother, like son: Introducing the first mother-son MFA screenwriting graduates in York history
As many York University graduates geared up for the final hurrah of their academic careers, Nicole Alexander breathed a sigh of relief after defending her four-years-in-the-making master’s thesis. She followed rather untraditionally in the footsteps of her eldest son, Morgan Fics, making them the first mother and son in York history to both graduate with their MFA in screenwriting.

York scholars receive Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
York University Postdoctoral Fellows Mohammad Naderi and Vasily Panferov were recipients of the prestigious Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship awarded by the Government of Canada. The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is valued at $70,000 per year for two years, supporting postdoctoral researchers who will positively contribute to Canada’s social, economic and research-based growth. As well, York PhD students Debbie Ebanks Schlums and Maureen Owino were awarded prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and 11 students received the Robert J. Tiffin Student Leadership Award.

Eleven athletes with ties to York University are competing in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan
Athletes with affiliation to York University included Jason Ho-Shue (Badminton), Katie Vincent (Canoe-Kayak), Brandie Wilkerson and Melissa Humana-Paredes (Beach Volleyball), Shady El Nahas (Judo), Brittany Crew (Shot Put), Pierce Lepage (Decathlon), Bismark Boateng and Khamica Bingham (Track & Field), Arthur Szwarc (Indoor Volleyball) and Syed Muhammad Haseeb Tariq (Swimming). Alumna Andrea Prieur, a certified athletic therapist, was part of the Health Services team and alumna and former Lion Natalie Ghobrial was an athletic therapist with the Women’s Softball team.

August

Funding supports York project to advance gender equality in pandemic recovery
A project out of York University that will advance gender equality in the social and economic response to COVID-19 was one of 237 projects that received funding under Women and Gender Equality Canada’s $100-million Feminist Response and Recovery Fund.

The prototype household filtration unit developed by Pratik Kumar and Professor Satinder Kaur Brar
The prototype household filtration unit developed by Pratik Kumar and Professor Satinder Kaur Brar

Lassonde postdoctoral Fellow earns award for research that improves drinking water
Pratik Kumar, a postdoctoral Fellow in Professor Satinder Kaur Brar‘s lab in the Lassonde School of Engineering, won an award for his work on improving the quality of drinking water.

Children’s health course tackles SDGs with an assist from globally networked learning
Pairing York University students with Universidad San Francisco de Quito students for a rich and meaningful learning experience focused on children’s health was the the work of Cheryl van Daalen-Smith, associate professor in the Children, Childhood and Youth Studies program, with support from the globally networked learning team in York International.

Check back in the next edition of YFile for Year in Review 2021: Top headlines at York University, September to December. To see part one, January to April, go here.

DNA collected from air offers novel approach to studying animal biodiversity

Molecule of DNA forming inside the test tube equipment

Two new studies published Jan. 6 in the journal Current Biology show environmental DNA (eDNA) collected from air can be used to detect a wide range of animal species and offers a novel, non-invasive approach to monitoring biodiversity. 

The findings were made by two independent groups of researchers, one based in Denmark, the other based in the United Kingdom and Canada. Both research groups set out to test whether airborne eDNA could be used to detect terrestrial animal species. To do this, the research teams collected air samples from two European zoos, Hamerton Zoo Park, U.K., and Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark.

Elizabeth Clare

The U.K. study was led by Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare from York University, then-senior lecturer at Queen Mary University of London, while the Danish study was led by Associate Professor Kristine Bohmann from the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen.

Each team used a different method of filtering airborne eDNA, but both succeeded in detecting the presence of numerous animal species within and beyond the confines of the two zoos.

Bohmann’s team collected air samples using three different air sampling devices; one commercial water-based vacuum and two blower fans with filters attached – the smallest one of these two was the size of a golf ball. They collected air samples in three locations: the okapi stable, the Rainforest House and outside between the outdoor enclosures.

Clare’s team used sensitive filters attached to vacuum pumps to collect more than 70 air samples from different locations around the zoo, both inside animal sleeping areas and outside in the general zoo environment.

The results from both studies exceeded their expectations.

“When we analyzed the collected samples, we were able to identify DNA from 25 different species of animals, such as tigers, lemurs and dingoes, 17 of which were known zoo species. We were even able to collect eDNA from animals that were hundreds of metres away from where we were testing without a significant drop in the concentration, and even from outside sealed buildings. The animals were inside, but their DNA was escaping,” says Clare.

See videosHow eDNA testing works to detect even endangered mammals and Researchers extract eDNA of mammals from air at UK zoo

“We were astonished when we saw the results,” says Bohmann. “In just 40 samples, we detected 49 species spanning mammal, bird, amphibian, reptile and fish. In the Rainforest House, we even detected the guppies in the pond, the two-toed sloth and the boa. When sampling air in just one outdoor site, we detected many of the animals with access to an outdoor enclosure in that part of the zoo, for example, kea, ostrich and rhino.”

Many of the detected species were kept at the zoos, but remarkably both teams also detected species from areas surrounding the zoo. The Eurasian hedgehog, endangered in the U.K., was detected from outside of Hamerton Zoo, U.K., while the water vole and red squirrel were detected around the Copenhagen Zoo. Both teams also picked up the presence of food items for zoo animals, such as chicken, cow, horse and fish. The wide range of detected species shows the potential that airborne eDNA could be used to detect and monitor terrestrial animal species in the wild. This would ultimately support global conservation efforts.

“The non-invasive nature of this approach makes it particularly valuable for observing vulnerable or endangered species as well as those in hard-to-reach environments, such as caves and burrows They do not have to be visible for us to know they are in the area if we can pick up traces of their DNA, literally out of thin air,” says Clare. “Air sampling could revolutionize terrestrial biomonitoring and provide new opportunities to track the composition of animal communities as well as detect invasion of non-native species.”

Living organisms shed DNA into their surrounding environments as they interact with them, and in recent years, eDNA has become an important tool for species detection in a wide range of habitats. For instance, eDNA analysis of water samples is routinely used to map species in aquatic environments. However, while air surrounds everything on land, it is only now that airborne eDNA has been explored for animal monitoring.

One of the main things when demonstrating a novel eDNA sample type is to ensure that results are reliable as eDNA analyses are very sensitive and prone to contamination.

“Air is a challenging substrate to work with as air surrounds everything, which means that contamination risk is high. We wanted to ensure that the species we detected were from the zoo and not for example from the lab. To ensure that we did not have any contaminant DNA floating in the air in the lab, we sampled air from within the lab and sequenced that too,” says Christina Lynggaard, who is part of the Danish team.

For these early studies, being able to replicate the work is key. The teams had no knowledge of each other’s work until the studies were completed but were thrilled by the parallel nature of the experiments. Clare and Bohmann agree that having two research teams independently demonstrate that airborne eDNA can be used to monitor a range of animal species greatly enhances the strength of their work and clearly show the potential of the technique.

“We did not think that vacuuming animal DNA from air would work,” Bohmann adds, “This was high risk, high reward science with the potential to push the boundaries of vertebrate biomonitoring. Clearly, the sky is not the limit.”

The use of airborne eDNA sampling in natural environments will need further research to unlock its full potential, but both research teams believe it could transform the way researchers study and monitor animal biodiversity.

Both research papers, Measuring biodiversity from DNA in the air, led by Clare, and Airborne environmental DNA for terrestrial vertebrate community monitoring, led by Lynggaard, were published in the journal Current Biology.

Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies welcomes the secretariat of the International Council for Canadian Studies

Canadian flag blowing in the wind

The Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies officially welcomes the secretariat of the International Council for Canadian Studies (ICCS) to York University. The initiative to bring ICCS to the Robarts Centre began in the fall 2021, furthering opportunities to expand Canadian Studies at home and abroad. 

For the Robarts Centre, an organized research unit at York University, supporting the ICCS and the field of international Canadian Studies is in line with its mandate. As York’s hub for enhancing the scholarly understanding of Canada and its place in the world, the Robarts Centre will benefit greatly from this agreement.  

“We are thrilled to welcome the ICCS at the Robarts Centre. How Canada is studied, researched and represented abroad is a key component to a complete and holistic study of the country and of Canadian society. This relationship also fits well with our current approach to the study of Canada at York, which is critical, collaborative and interdisciplinary,” says Jean Michel Montsion, director of the Robarts Centre.  

Established in 1981, the ICCS is a not-for-profit organization composed of 23 member associations and five associate members in 39 countries dedicated to the promotion and support of research, education and publication in all fields of Canadian Studies around the world. The ICCS network links more than 7,000 academics and researchers in 70 countries. These Canadianists publish hundreds of scholarly articles and books on Canadian topics; organize seminars and conferences on Canada; and through their teaching and seminars reach more than 150,000 students. 

“We are very glad that the Robarts Centre has offered to host our secretariat for the coming years. Our move from Ottawa to Toronto will have many advantages, among them the close link with one of the top Canadian universities, being housed together with excellent York U research centres and, most importantly, allowing for close research cooperation with the Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies,” says Kerstin Knopf, president of ICCS and professor at the University of Bremen in Germany. 

The Robarts Centre and the ICCS have a long-standing relationship. In 2013, the ICCS held its annual general meeting at York University with the support of the Robarts Centre. York students have also won The Brian Long Best Doctoral Thesis in Canadian Studies award, including Jane Griffith (2015), Brittany Luby (2016) and Warren Bernauer (2018). 

Additional initiatives are underway to support research collaboration, joint events for future ICCS annual general meetings and workshops for graduate students.  

To learn more about the Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies, click here

Richard Leblanc

Richard Leblanc
Richard Leblanc

York University Professor Richard Leblanc of the School of Administrative Studies, joins BNN Bloomberg to discuss the challenges ahead of corporate board members amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

York U in the news: Animal DNA, Omicron and more

An image of a woman with a laptop that shows the YFile website

Airborne animal DNA could help biologists track endangered species
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in Popular Science Jan. 6.

Wildlife can now be detected by sniffing DNA in the air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in The Economist Jan. 6.

DNA can now be pulled from the very air we breathe. It could help track endangered animals
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in CNN Jan. 6.

Scientists say they’re able to pull animal DNA out of thin air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in CTV News Jan. 6.

Two research teams independently used vacuums to measure biodiversity
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in Ars Technica Jan. 6.

Scientists identify zoo animals using solely DNA sucked from the air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in ZME Science Jan. 6.

With so many cryptocurrencies, why do any of them have value?
York University Associate Professor Henry Kim was quoted in CBC Jan. 6.

Opening schools should be a priority, but Omicron requires extra safety: experts
Beyhan Farhadi, a post doctoral fellow at York University was quoted in Toronto Star Jan. 6.

Nursing, education students push forward despite pandemic challenges
Lale Tuner, a nursing student at York University was quoted in CTV News Jan. 6.

Confronting Canada’s history of forced adoption
York University alumna Valerie Andrews was featured in TVO Jan. 6.

Scientists ID Dozens of Plants, Animals from Free-Floating DNA
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in The Scientist Magazine Jan. 6.

Omicron turbulence makes air travel a bumpy ride
Associate Professor Fred Lazar was quoted in Toronto Star Jan. 6.

Boards are conducting exit surveys and regular outreach to employees
Richard Leblanc, York University professor and graduate program director spoke to BNN Bloomberg Jan. 6.

Getting back to fieldwork
Assistant Professors Cora Young and Trevor VandenBoer were quoted in University Affairs Jan. 5.

Fired Mount Royal University professor says she plans to appeal
York University was mentioned in CTV News Calgary Jan. 5.

Obit: Former agriculture minister Bob Speller was ‘a good friend to farmers’
York University alumnus Bob Speller was featured in Hamilton Spectator Jan. 4.

Tips to maximize your experience as a mentee
Former York University professor Alan Middleton was quoted in Canadian Immigrant Jan. 4.

Here are some of the political events that will dominate headlines in 2022
York University Professor Thomas Klassen was quoted in National Post Jan. 4.

Waterloo region police partner with human rights experts to improve race data collection system
Lorne Foster, professor and director at the Institute for Social Research at York University was mentioned in CBC Jan. 3.

Opinion: Kids growing up in the pandemic have a different view of the world
York University professor Rebecca Pillai Riddel was quoted in The Globe and Mail Jan. 3.

Canada’s food future
Associate professor Roderick MacRae was quoted in CBA National Magazine Jan. 3.

Scientists Pull Animal DNA Out of Thin Air
York University Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was featured in Smithsonian Magazine Jan. 6.

Scientists can now track animals using only air
Assistant Professor Elizabeth Clare was quoted in Fast Company Jan. 6.

Rozdilsky: No choice but hunkering down
York University Graduate Program Director and Associate Professor Jack Rozdilsky contributed to London Free Press Jan. 2.

Beware bad diets: Here are some health regimens to watch out for
York University Adjunct Professor Sean Wharton was quoted in TheRecord.com Jan. 1.

‘I hope he grows healthy and happy’: Elated mother shares birth story of Toronto’s first 2022 baby …
York university student Sreyphea Chheang was featured in CityNews Toronto Jan. 1.

Group in BC looks to build smaller, homelike long-term care units after COVID-19 – Orillia Matters
York University Professor Pat Armstrong was quoted in Orillia Matters Dec. 31.

New nurses on graduating into the COVID-19 pandemic
Birgit Umaigba, clinical course director at York University was quoted in Toronto Star Dec. 31.

Peel police to collect race data during traffic stops amid efforts to address disparities
York University Professor Lorne Foster was quoted in Toronto Star Dec. 30.

Clarington residents receive Canada’s highest honour 
York University alumnus William Humber was mentioned in Toronto Star Dec. 30.

St. James CHS sending two teams to CWOSSA in May 
York University was mentioned in Wellington Advertiser Dec. 29.

Connor Bedard, 16, scores four as Juniors beat Austria 11-2
York University was mentioned in The South Bayview Bulldog Dec. 29.

Choosing Kindness is good for you
York University Professor Myriam Mongrain spoke to CBC Dec. 28.

What’s a negative leap second and why might we need one?
York University Assistant Professor Elaina Hyde was quoted in CTV News Dec. 28.

These Richmond Hill teens were high achievers during COVID-19
York University was mentioned in YorkRegion.com Dec. 27.

Canadians eager to be nurses facing tougher entry requirements, fewer training spots
York University was mentioned in CBC Dec. 27.

B.C. floods among world’s most devastating climate events of 2021 – Vancouver Is Awesome
Courtney Howard, community researcher in planetary health at York University was quoted in Vancouver is Awesome Dec. 26.

What were the costliest extreme weather events in 2021? – Victoria Times Colonist 
Courtney Howard, community researcher in planetary health at York University was quoted in Times Colonist Dec. 26.

To get through the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to learn how to live in an ongoing disaster
York University Graduate Program Director and Associate Professor Jack Rozdilsky contributed to National Post Dec. 27.

The James Webb Space Telescope has a bit of Canadian in it – University Affairs
York University was mentioned in University Affairs Dec. 23.

University community update regarding campus attendance and operations

Vari Hall Winter scene showing the Harry Arthurs Common

La version française suit la version anglaise.

Dear York community members, 

I hope that you were able to find some time to unwind and re-energize during the holiday break. I would also like to wish you a happy new year.  

Unfortunately, our new year begins amidst a surge in cases because of the omicron variant of COVID-19. As a consequence, the province has recently announced a return to a modified Step 2 of its reopening plan. 

Since York made the decision to delay the resumption of most in-person activities in the winter term, the immediate impact of the new provincial guidelines is minimal and limited to non-instructional and non-research activities and spaces. Nevertheless, the new restrictions do affect some University operations such as restaurants as well as other sectors. York has therefore made the following additional changes to in-person teaching, learning, research, and work: 

  • With some exceptions where the student learning outcomes cannot easily be realized without in-person instruction, courses will remain online until Jan. 31. Faculty members and instructors will receive additional details directly by email in the coming days. Teaching supports will continue to be offered through the Teaching Commons in addition to Faculty-level services.
  • Staff who are not required to be in-person will continue to work remotely and will receive additional details from managers directly by email in the coming days.  
  • Researchers can continue on-campus research; however, everyone is asked to attend only to essential activities. 
  • Libraries are offering contactless curb-side pickup only, with few exceptions, until Jan. 10. Please use the following email askusyul@yorku.ca for assistance. 

The school closures in K–12 have also added more responsibilities to those balancing work with childcare and other caregiving responsibilities. As we have done previously, the University encourages leaving 12 to 1 p.m. unscheduled and free of meetings to support general wellbeing and to help caregivers. A reminder to all employees that resources and support are available, and additional supports can be accessed through York’s Employee and Family Assistance Program

I am pleased to announce a dedicated York community vaccination clinic will run from Jan. 10 through to Jan. 28 at the Keele Campus. More information about the clinic will be communicated in the coming days. 

As we continue to do what we can to blunt the impact of the omicron variant, I urge everyone to continue to follow the most current public health guidance. Please ensure you receive a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are able, maintain physical distance where possible, and wear a high-quality mask. Please do not come to campus unless you must and, if you do come to campus, complete your screening on YU Screen. Most importantly, please do not come to campus if you feel unwell. 

These are challenging times as the pandemic continues to test us with new and continuing strains and stress. Thank you for your cooperation, flexibility, and shared commitment to community health and safety.   

The administration will be continuing to monitor developments and is in frequent contact with government, public health officials, and other PSE institutions regarding the trajectory of the pandemic. Please continue to check the YU Better Together website for the most current information and ongoing updates. 

Sincerely, 

Rhonda Lenton
President and Vice-Chancellor 


Mise à jour à la communauté universitaire concernant la fréquentation et le fonctionnement du campus

J’espère que vous avez pu trouver du temps pour vous détendre et pour faire le plein d’énergie pendant le congé des fêtes et je vous souhaite une bonne année. 

Malheureusement, cette année commence dans un contexte de recrudescence des cas dus au variant Omicron de la COVID-19. Par conséquent, la province a récemment annoncé un retour à la deuxième étape modifiée de son Plan d’action pour le déconfinement. 

Comme York a pris la décision de retarder la reprise de la plupart des activités du trimestre d’hiver en personne, l’impact immédiat des nouvelles directives provinciales est minime et se limite aux activités et aux espaces non liés à l’enseignement et à la recherche. Néanmoins, les nouvelles restrictions affectent certaines activités et certains secteurs, comme les restaurants. York a donc apporté les changements additionnels suivants à l’enseignement, à l’apprentissage, à la recherche et au travail en personne : 

  • À quelques exceptions près — lorsque les résultats d’apprentissage des étudiantes et étudiants ne peuvent être facilement atteints sans un enseignement en personne — les cours resteront en ligne jusqu’au 31 janvier 2022. Les membres du corps professoral et les chargés de cours recevront d’autres détails par courriel dans les prochains jours. Les supports d’enseignement continueront d’être proposés par le biais de Teaching Commons, en plus des services des facultés.  
  • Les membres du personnel qui ne sont pas tenus d’être présents en personne continueront à travailler à distance et recevront plus de détails de leurs gestionnaires par courriel dans les prochains jours.  
  • Les membres de la communauté de recherche peuvent poursuivre leurs recherches sur le campus, mais ils sont priés de ne participer qu’aux activités essentielles. 
  • Les bibliothèques proposent uniquement la collecte en bordure de trottoir sans contact, à quelques exceptions près, jusqu’au 10 janvier 2022. Veuillez envoyer un courriel à askusyul@yorku.ca pour obtenir de l’aide. 

Les fermetures d’écoles de la maternelle à la douzième année ont également accru les responsabilités des personnes qui doivent concilier travail, garde d’enfants et autres responsabilités familiales. Comme précédemment, l’Université encourage les membres de sa communauté à ne pas prévoir de réunion entre 12 h et 13 h pour favoriser le bien-être général et pour appuyer les personnes aidantes. Nous rappelons aux membres du personnel que des ressources et du soutien sont disponibles et que de l’aide supplémentaire est accessible par le biais du Programme d’aide aux employés et à la famille de York. 

J’ai le plaisir d’annoncer qu’une clinique de vaccination pour la communauté de York se tiendra du 10 au 28 janvier 2022 sur le campus Keele. De plus amples informations sur cette clinique seront communiquées dans les prochains jours. 

Alors que nous continuons à faire notre possible pour atténuer l’impact du variant Omicron, je vous demande instamment de continuer à suivre les conseils de santé publique les plus récents. Veuillez vous assurer de recevoir une troisième dose du vaccin contre la COVID-19 dès que possible; pratiquez la distanciation physique; portez un masque de bonne qualité. Ne vous rendez sur les campus qu’en cas de besoin et, si vous devez absolument y aller, faites votre dépistage sur YU Dépistage. Surtout, ne venez pas sur les campus si vous ne vous sentez pas bien. 

Nous traversons une période difficile et la pandémie continue de nous mettre à l’épreuve avec de nouveaux variants et un niveau de stress permanent. Nous vous remercions de votre collaboration, de votre flexibilité et de votre engagement envers la santé et la sécurité de la communauté.   

L’administration continuera à surveiller l’évolution de la situation. Nous sommes en contact fréquent avec le gouvernement, les responsables de la santé publique et d’autres établissements d’enseignement postsecondaire relativement à la trajectoire de la pandémie. Veuillez continuer à consulter le site Mieux ensemble de York pour obtenir les informations et les mises à jour les plus récentes. 

Veuillez agréer mes sincères salutations,

Rhonda Lenton 
Présidente et vice-chancelière 

York community third dose vaccine clinic opens Jan. 10

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

York University is pleased to host a dedicated vaccination clinic for York community members who are 18 years of age and older and meet the eligibility requirements to receive a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. 

The clinic will take place at the Aviva Centre and runs daily (Monday-Friday) beginning Jan. 10 through to Jan. 28. Appointments are required. 

Due to the high demand for third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, all adults 30 years of age and older can expect to receive Moderna. Pfizer will only be available to those between the ages of 18 and 30 years.

Community members can book an appointment here: Book your appointment.

For more information about the York community vaccination clinic, including eligibility requirements, please read more here.

As always, please visit www.yorku.ca/bettertogether for the most current information and updates regarding York’s response to COVID-19.

Year in Review 2021: Top headlines at York University, January to April

A journal cover that says 2021

As a new year emerges, YFile takes a look back on 2021 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 January to April, as chosen by YFile editors.

January

York University, Mackenzie Health launch innovative health collaboration in York Region
York University joined forces with Mackenzie Health in an innovative new community-focused health collaboration that will aim to enhance health services, training of highly qualified personnel, research and innovation and healthier outcomes for York Region residents, and beyond.

York University launches new international Indigenous Student Exchange Program with virtual pilot
The exchange program is funded by the federal government-sponsored Outbound Student Mobility Pilot Program. Ten Indigenous students at York University joined Indigenous students from partner universities worldwide to participate in a series of facilitated online workshops on a variety of themes.

Image shows two people talking over video chat
As a succession of government and public health measures and guidelines came into effect, the Emergency Management Team met regularly over evenings and weekends to plan and implement changes

Recognizing hard work and dedication in York University’s 2020 COVID-19 Emergency Management Team
As the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly impacted all aspects of daily life in 2020, York University moved quickly to assemble an emergency team that would prove instrumental in its ability to respond to the crisis. Throughout the pandemic, the emergency team managed preparedness and response efforts, working evenings, weekends to mobilize efforts to protect University community members.

Dahdaleh Institute research on improving water safety in humanitarian operations published in leading journal
Groundbreaking new research from York University’s Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research providing recommendations to improve the safety of household water supplies in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps was published in Water Research, the leading water science and engineering journal.

February

Faculty member Mark Terry’s documentary film was recognized during the UN SGD 2020 Action Awards

Youth Climate Report, documentary film project led by York faculty member Mark Terry, recognized with UN SDG Action Award
The Youth Climate Report, a documentary film project led by Mark Terry – explorer, award-winning filmmaker and contract faculty member and course director at York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change – earned an Honourable Mention from the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2020 Action Awards.

York University announces new Postdoctoral Program for Black and Indigenous Scholars
York University launched a new Postdoctoral Fellowship Program for Black and Indigenous Scholars, as part of a wider commitment to promoting justice and embracing a variety of scholarly perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences.

Lassonde’s K2I Academy launches Helen Carswell STEAM Program for Black and Indigenous Youth
The K2I Academy welcomed 25 Black and Indigenous students from the York Region District School Board (YRDSB) to participate in a 14-week paid research program. The high school students worked on research projects related to engineering, computer science, earth science and/or atmospheric science under the guidance of undergraduate research assistant mentors, supervised by Lassonde faculty.

Compelling content across communication platforms earns York Communications & Public Affairs eight awards
York University creates content that matters and earned eight prestigious awards in recognition of the high-quality work produced by Communications & Public Affairs (C&PA).

March

Charles Hopkins
York’s UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability, Professor Charles Hopkins

York named founding partner of new global UNESCO network on education for sustainable development
York University announced it is one of six founding partners of a global UNESCO network on Education for Sustainable Development led by Leuphana University in Lüneburg, Germany.

Researchers at York University receive $9 million in Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) funding
Three major research projects at York University received more than $9 million in research infrastructure funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced more than $518 million in research infrastructure funding on March 3 supporting 102 projects at 35 post-secondary institutions and research hospitals across the country.

Celebrating experiential education’s pandemic successes
Experiential education was the star of two celebratory events held at York University. Both events showcased how students and faculty have been able to pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep experiential education thriving during a year of teaching and learning remotely.

New Research & Innovation resource documents York’s unique contribution in fight against COVID-19
A vital resource created in the Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation is a comprehensive, ever-expanding and searchable list documenting COVID-19 research and expertise undertaken across York University.

April

York University Lions men's hockey player Kaleb Dahlgren and women's track and field athlete Monique Simon-Tucker were named York's top graduating student-athletes at the 53rd annual Varsity Athletics Banquet April 8, 2021
York University Lions men’s hockey player Kaleb Dahlgren and women’s track and field athlete Monique Simon-Tucker were named York’s top graduating student-athletes at the 53rd annual Varsity Athletics Banquet April 8, 2021

Three student-athletes nominated for York’s Heart of a Lion award
Three York University Lions student-athletes have been nominated for York’s Charles Saundercook Memorial Trophy: men’s hockey player Kaleb Dahlgren, women’s track and field athlete Simone Da Silva and women’s hockey player Kelsey McHolm. Four student-athletes also received the 2021 Lions Legacy awards: men’s hockey player Kaleb Dahlgren, women’s hockey standout Lauren Dubie, women’s soccer player Teni Odetoyinbo and track and field athlete Monique Simon-Tucker.

York University researchers leading national infectious disease modelling efforts
Researchers in York University’s Faculty of Science were awarded federal government funding to lead national disease modelling efforts that will help us better predict, prevent and respond to emerging infectious disease.

New student-driven initiative offers a hub for students to take action on the SDGs
The SDG Student Hub was launched in fall 2020 as part of the partnership between York and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) to bring world-class initiatives in sustainable development to its communities. The SDSN works with universities and other knowledge centers to help them activate sustainable development initiatives through knowledge mobilization; problem-solve partnerships with governments, business and civil society; and encourage local social entrepreneurship.

Check back in the next edition of YFile for Year in Review 2021: Top headlines at York University, May to August.