St. George

The 91�Թ� will mark Remembrance Day across its three campuses on Nov. 11 – including a ceremony on the St. George campus that will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Soldiers’ Tower.

The 44-metre tower, which houses a 51-bell carillon, was erected beside Hart House in 1924 to honour soldiers and members of the 91�Թ� community who fell in the First World War.

The monument was later expanded to include the names of 1,185 people who fell during either the First or Second World Wars, while the annual Service of Remembrance that takes place at its base honours those who served in both the Great Wars as well as other conflicts.

“The most important aspect of this day is drawing the community together,” says Peter MacLaurin, chair of the Soldier’s Tower committee and a retired lieutenant-colonel in the Canadian Army.

Beginning at 10:25 a.m., the St. George campus service will include carillon recitals before and after the ceremony – and will be followed by a free public reception in the Great Hall of Hart House. The Memorial Room in Soldiers’ Tower will be open until 4 p.m.

Meanwhile, at 91�Թ� Scarborough, the community will honour alumni, students, faculty and staff who fell in the First and Second World Wars, as well as other conflicts. The in-person ceremony begins at 10:45 a.m. at The Meeting Place, Science Wing, and features the UTSC Concert Band, Concert Choir & String Orchestra.

At 91�Թ� Mississauga, an in-person ceremony will take place at 10:45 a.m. in front of the Davis Building, near the flagpole. The UTM Indigenous Centre is also hosting a poppy-beading workshop on Nov. 8.

Flags on all three campuses will be flown at half-mast on Nov. 11.

Soldiers’ Tower

The 44-metre tower, erected beside Hart House in 1924, houses a 51-bell carillon (photo by Laura Pedersen)

Between 1923 and 1924, the 91�Թ� Alumni Association raised $397,141 to build a war memorial and establish scholarships to honour community members who served in the Great War – the equivalent of more than $7 million in today’s currency.

The tower’s carillon is played by three different carillonists, who use their hands and feet to play a keyboard that sounds the bells during spring and fall convocations and other special ceremonies, including on Remembrance Day.

The ranks, names and units of those lost to the university in the First World War are etched in stone on the memorial screen. Other features of the monument include the memorial arch and the Garden of Remembrance.

In the Staircase of Honour, stained-glass windows depict men and women who contributed to the war effort.

Portraits of several illustrious graduates are on display in the tower. They include: Lt.-Col. John McCrae, who wrote In Flanders Fields; Maj. Thain MacDowell, who earned the Victoria Cross in the battle of Vimy Ridge, the only member of 91�Թ� to receive the honour in the Great War; Maj. Fred Tilston, awarded the Victoria Cross for his efforts in Hochwald Forest (Germany), 1945; and the co-discoverers of insulin, Sir Frederick Banting and Charles Best. Both men served in the Canadian Army in the First World War.

In photos: 91�Թ� graduates celebrate fall convocation 2024

davidlee — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 18:08:02 +0000

In photos: 91�Թ� graduates celebrate fall convocation 2024

davidlee Tue, 11/05/2024 - 13:08

Cutline

Graduates capture their big day from every angle on 91�Թ�'s Front Campus (photo by Polina Teif)

Topic

Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work

St. George

91�Թ� Mississauga

91�Թ� Scarborough

As the leaves changed colour across the 91�Թ�’s three campuses, more than 4,000 members of the Class of 2024 embarked on a new chapter in their lives by crossing the stage inside Convocation Hall.

They were among more than 5,700 91�Թ� graduates to receive their 91�Թ� degrees this fall and among more than 21,500 to graduate this year – many having begun their studies during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here are some of the highlights of fall convocation ceremonies as captured by 91�Թ� photographers:

(photo by Mac Pattanasuttinont)

With the autumn leaves providing a burst of colour overhead, graduates gather outside Convocation Hall with their friends and families.

(photo by Shauna Rempel)

Eagle Feather Bearer Kaitlin Phillips, Indigenous student support specialist at 91�Թ� Mississauga, leads the chancellor’s procession into Convocation Hall.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Graduates from the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work’s master of social work, Indigenous trauma and resiliency program pose for a group shot on Front Campus.

(photo by Mac Pattanasuttinont)

New beginnings: A smiling grad shakes the hand of Wes Hall, who was officially installed as 91�Թ�’s 35th chancellor at the outset of this year’s fall convocation ceremonies.

(photo by Mac Pattanasuttinont)

Smartphone-toting friends and family members strain to capture graduates’ big moments inside Convocation Hall.

(photo by Mac Pattanasuttinont)

Eagle Feather Bearer Adrianna Lewis, left, a master’s student in the Faculty of Information, shares a laugh with Sheree Drummond, secretary of 91�Թ�’s Governing Council.

(photo by Marc Alolod)

Proud 91�Թ� Scarborough graduates celebrate their achievement with a photo op outside of Convocation Hall.

(photo by Polina Teif)

A graduating student gets a helping hand in making a heart-shaped gesture following his convocation ceremony.

(photo by Polina Teif)

91�Թ� convocation celebrations are often family affairs. This joyful embrace, with the tiniest family member joining in, says it all.

Congratulations Class of 2024! 91�Թ� prepares to celebrate graduates at fall convocation

Christopher.Sorensen — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:02:24 +0000

Congratulations Class of 2024! 91�Թ� prepares to celebrate graduates at fall convocation Christopher.Sorensen Wed, 10/23/2024 - 12:02

Topic

Subheadline

More than 4,000 students are expected to attend ceremonies in Convocation Hall between Oct. 28 and Nov. 1 - while more than 5,000 students are expected to graduate in total

The autumn air at the 91�Թ� is filled with excitement as students prepare to don hoods and gowns to cross the stage at Convocation Hall, marking the end of an academic journey and beginning of a new chapter.

Between Oct. 28 and Nov. 1, more than 5,700 students will graduate from 91�Թ�, with more than 4,000 of them expected to cross the stage at Convocation Hall during 10 scheduled ceremonies.

Students graduating this fall represent 77 countries, including Canada, and range in age from 18 to 77. By the conclusion of the final ceremony, more than 21,500 students from across 91�Թ�’s three campuses will have graduated this year – and most of them began their studies just as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold.

“On behalf of the 91�Թ�, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the members of the Class of 2024,” said 91�Թ� President Meric Gertler. “You have persevered in the face of an extraordinary challenge – and the strength, creativity and determination you have shown in your pursuit of excellence have inspired all of us.”

Throughout this week, staff and faculty will be putting the final touches on preparations, checking the printed parchments and placing them into envelopes, and readying Convocation Hall for the arrival of graduating students and their guests – up to two family members or friends per student. The convocation readers, meanwhile, will be practising and preparing to read aloud the names of each student who crosses the stage.

Fall convocation kicks off with the Faculty of Arts & Science on Oct. 28, with the installation of the new chancellor – Wes Hall. At the morning ceremony on Nov. 1, students from the School of Graduate Studies, the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, and the Faculty of Arts & Science will be joined by honorary degree recipient Jane Corkin, an internationally renowned gallerist.

The ceremonies wrap up on Nov. 1 with 91�Թ� Mississauga students the last to cross the stage, for what will mark the final convocation ceremony for John Tuttle, who is retiring after serving as the official organist for the university for 45 years.

All ceremonies will be livestreamed throughout the week on 91�Թ�’s Convocation Hub with archived versions of each ceremony available for later viewing. Viewers in mainland China can watch the broadcasts on MyMedia a day or two after the original ceremony date.

The ceremonies will feature numerous traditions, some dating back more than a century. They include colourful hoods and flowing gowns, a bedel carrying 91�Թ�’s gold-plated mace, a 51-bell carillon ringing out from atop Soldiers’ Tower, and the chancellor’s procession.

The procession will be led by an Eagle Feather Bearer carrying a ceremonial Eagle Feather – a tradition that symbolizes the university’s deep respect for Indigenous Peoples and cultural traditions and was first introduced to 91�Թ�’s convocation ceremonies in spring 2022.

The beaded stole worn by the Eagle Feather Bearer, which symbolizes the enduring partnership between the university and Indigenous Peoples, made its inaugural appearance in convocation ceremonies this past spring.

Throughout the week, the Myhal Centre for Engineering Innovation and Entrepreneurship will serve as the main hub for students before the ceremonies, with graduands collecting their gown and hood from the lobby of the building. At Alumni Plaza outside Convocation Hall, there will be designated gathering spaces for graduates and their guests, as well as pin giveaways and contest draws. Diploma and portrait framing services and a photobooth will be available at the 91�Թ� Bookstore. More information is available in a list of FAQs on the Convocation Hub.

Chancellor Hall expressed his enthusiasm at presiding over convocation for the first time in his new role.

“I’m excited to confer the degrees and to see the joy on the graduates’ faces as they cross the stage,” he said. “It’s a tremendous honour and privilege.

“On behalf of the university community, I want to congratulate each and every member of the Class of 2024 for achieving this important milestone. I’m immensely proud and I can’t wait to see what they will accomplish in their lives and careers.”

91�Թ� prepares to mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Christopher.Sorensen — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 13:06:56 +0000

91�Թ� prepares to mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Christopher.Sorensen Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:06

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The Survivors' Flag, raised at 91�Թ� Varsity Stadium on Sept. 20, will be lowered to half-mast on Sept. 30, when the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed across Canada (photo by Jill Clark)

Jelena Damjanovic

Melinda Mattos

Topic

Our Community

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Orange Shirt Day

Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education

The Survivors’ Flag, which honours Indigenous lives and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada, has been raised across the 91�Թ�’s three campuses as the community prepares to mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.

On the St. George campus, the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education (KPE), in partnership with First Nations House and the 91�Թ� Office of Indigenous Initiatives, raised the Survivors’ Flag at Varsity Stadium earlier this month.

It will be lowered to half-mast on Sept. 30 when the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is formally recognized across Canada.

91�Թ� Mississauga (photo by Julia Le)

Flags have also been raised at 91�Թ� Scarborough and 91�Թ� Mississauga.

“Recognizing the painful history of Canada’s residential school system, and the tragic consequences that are still being felt today, is a vital component of the reconciliation process,” said Professor Gretchen Kerr, dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education.

“It’s also a time for settlers to reflect on what they can do to strengthen relationships with Indigenous Peoples in order to build a better future together.”

The 91�Թ� community is invited to honour the experiences of residential school survivors by joining a tri-campus event being held in the Great Hall at Hart House on Sept. 30 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Participants will have the option to register to attend the event in person or register to watch the live-stream on YouTube.

The event will feature a keynote address by Shirley Cheechoo, Canadian Cree actor, artist, filmmaker and founder of Weengushk Film Institute, who will be introduced by Benji Jacob, a fourth-year psychology student from 91�Թ� Mississauga. There will also be a land acknowledgement by Jay-Daniel Baghbanan, a student at the Faculty of Music and vice-president of student life at the faculty’s undergraduate association, welcoming remarks from David Kim, warden of Hart House and remarks by 91�Թ� President Meric Gertler and William Gough, acting vice-president of 91�Թ� and acting principal of 91�Թ� Scarborough. 91�Թ� Chancellor Wes Hall will deliver closing remarks.

91�Թ� Scarborough (photo by Harry Xu)

While wearing any orange shirt is a show of solidarity, the Office of Indigenous Initiatives has partnered with the 91�Թ� Bookstore on a limited supply of orange t-shirts that feature an award-winning design by MJ Singleton, an Ojibwe, two-spirit student from Migisi Sahgaigan First Nation who is studying at 91�Թ� Mississauga. All proceeds from the sale of the shirts will be directed to the Orange Shirt Society.

Members of the 91�Թ� community are also encouraged to use the Orange Shirt Day virtual background and profile icon, featuring Singleton's design.

In photos: 91�Թ� campuses spring to life as students move into residence, head to first day of class

rahul.kalvapalle — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 13:00:15 +0000

In photos: 91�Թ� campuses spring to life as students move into residence, head to first day of class

rahul.kalvapalle Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:00

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Jacob Domingo Chan, third from left, was among many first-year students who received a helping hand as they moved into residences on 91�Թ�'s three campuses ahead of the new school year (photo by Polina Teif)

Topic

Undergraduate Students

University College

The 91�Թ�’s three campuses are abuzz with excitement as students from the Toronto region, across Canada and around the world kicked off a new school year.

The fall 2024 semester marked the first time that students on the St. George campus, 91�Թ� Scarborough and 91�Թ� Mississauga had their first day of classes on the same day, Sept. 3 – part of an effort to align key academic dates across the university.

AskMe Anything volunteers were also out in full force to offer tips and guidance, especially to the thousands of first-year students navigating the first day of their post-secondary education.

91�Թ� President Meric Gertler welcomed new and returning students, as well as faculty, staff and librarians, in a video message released last week.

“[91�Թ�] is an exciting place to be, and this is an exciting time to be a part of it,” he said.

Photographers were on hand across all three campuses in recent days to capture the sights – and energy – of a new academic year:

(photo by Johnny Guatto)

Welcome signs wrap 91�Թ�’s main gates on the St. George campus as students make their way to and from classes on the first day of a new school year.

(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

The weeks leading up to the first day of school featured plenty of enthusiasm as students and their families carted belongings into residences at 91�Թ� Mississauga.

(photo by Polina Teif)

At St. George, volunteers and residence staff were on hand to provide a warm welcome, refreshments and help hoisting bins and boxes.

(photo by Polina Teif)

“I was nervous at first, but everyone’s been so welcoming,” said University College student Cassidy Smith, who posed for an Aug. 25 photo with her mother as she moved into her dorm.

“There’s such a good energy around the place and I can feel that this is going to be like a second home to me."

(photo by Terrence Tong)

At 91�Թ� Scarborough, luggage carts – and several volunteers – helped ferry students’ belongings between the parking lot and residence buildings.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Gabriella Baichwal, who was born in Toronto and grew up in Chicago, joked that she “brought way too much stuff” to fill up her single room in Trinity College on the St. George campus.

“I brought all my clothes, a mini-fridge and all of this stuff, and I feel like a spoiled brat. But that’s OK – you’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do,” said Baichwal, as her parents helped unload items from their vehicle’s roof.

Her father, Ravi Baichwal, whose own father went to grad school at 91�Թ� in the 1960s after moving from India, said he was “incredibly proud” of his daughter for following in her grandfather’s footsteps.

“I have that incredible pit of anxiety and hope all mixed up into one,” he said.

(photo by Polina Teif)

There were plenty of opportunities for students to meet new friends, showcase their school spirit and learn about extra-curricular opportunities at the tri-campus cheer-off event and clubs carnival held on the St. George campus ahead of the Labour Day long weekend.

(photo by Polina Teif)

More than 300 91�Թ� clubs were present at the clubs carnival, an annual event organized by the 91�Թ� Students' Union. There is also a Student Groups Fair on Sept. 5 and 6 at 91�Թ� Mississauga, and a UTSC Clubs Fair at 91�Թ� Scarborough on Sept. 23.

(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

Orientation programs at 91�Թ� Mississauga included a painting activity that invited students to harness their creativity.

(photo by Terrence Tong)

It was all smiles at 91�Թ� Scarborough as students, friends and family settled in for the fall term.

'Your gateway to the world': President Meric Gertler welcomes 91�Թ� community to fall term

mattimar — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:43:38 +0000

'Your gateway to the world': President Meric Gertler welcomes 91�Թ� community to fall term mattimar Thu, 08/29/2024 - 11:43

Topic

As the 91�Թ� prepares to kick off a new school year, President Meric Gertler is extending a warm welcome to new and returning students, faculty, staff and librarians across the university’s three campuses.

“Each of you brings unique talents, perspectives and dreams – and each of you has a place in our academic community,” he said in a video released today. “Together, we're expanding the boundaries of knowledge in every field, challenging ourselves and each other in the adventure of learning, discovery and innovation.”

President Gertler called 91�Թ� “your gateway to the world,” highlighting its diverse community and wide range of international opportunities.

“It's an exciting place to be, and this is an exciting time to be part of it. Thank you all for joining us. I wish you all the best in the year to come.”

Learn more at UTogether

Back-to-school 2024: 6 things every 91�Թ� student should know

mattimar — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 16:37:14 +0000

Back-to-school 2024: 6 things every 91�Թ� student should know

mattimar Wed, 08/21/2024 - 12:37

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91�Թ�'s ASKme Anything booths are a great resource for help and information on all three campuses (photo by David Lee)

Mariam Matti

Topic

Our Community

Back to School 2024

91�Թ� Entrepreneurship

There’s always more to discover at the 91�Թ� – whether you’re setting foot on one of its three campuses for the first time or have been here for years.

With its diverse opportunities, expansive resources and vibrant community, there are nearly endless ways for students to make the most of their time at one of the world’s top universities.

The following list, though by no means exhaustive, is meant to serve as a starting point for those who are looking for tips on everything from answering basic questions to finding their community – and even starting their own company.

Navigating campus life

Need help finding your way around? 91�Թ�’s tri-campus map tool is a great resource when it comes to figuring out where to go – and don’t forget that most lectures start 10 minutes after the hour to make sure students have time to get where they need to be.

“Where do I get a…?”

91�Թ�'s ASKMe Anything ambassadors aim to build a warm and welcoming community for students on all three campuses (photo by David Lee)

Starting out at 91�Թ� can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming – and many students have a lot of questions.

“How do I find out about orientation events and activities?”

“What is a TCard and where do I get it?”

“How much time is there to walk from class to class?”

Fortunately, 91�Թ�’s ASKme Anything booths and ambassadors are here to help. The initiative is all about building a warm and welcoming community for students on all three campuses.

ASKme Anything booths will be operating on the St. George campus from Aug. 19 to Sept. 9 on weekdays, plus Saturday, Aug. 24 and Sunday, Aug. 25. They will be conveniently located at the campus gate at King’s College Road and College Street, at St. George and Ursula Franklin Streets and near Sidney Smith Hall at St. George and Willcocks Streets.

At 91�Թ� Mississauga, students are encouraged to visit the Hub Hello Desk in the Student Services Hub to have their questions answered and to connect with student services on campus. The desk is open from 9:30 to 5 p.m.

At 91�Թ� Scarborough, ASKme Anything booths will be set up in Scarborough Circle, the lobby of the Sam Ibrahim Building, the front vestibule of the Instructional Centre and in the Bladen Wing hallway just outside of Tim Horton's from Sept. 3 to Sept. 14.

There are also welcome booths at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Terminals 1 and 3.

Finding your community

Students attend Clubs Day at the 91�Թ� Mississauga campus (photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

Diving into university life by joining a club provides the opportunity to learn new things, connect with others and enrich the student experience. From sports and the arts to social causes, there are hundreds of community-oriented clubs and student groups across the three campuses – meaning there’s literally something for everyone.

Interested students should check out the Clubs Carnival on Aug. 30 at King’s College Circle on Front Campus. At 91�Թ� Mississauga, students are invited to the Student Groups Fair to find out more information on clubs on Sept. 5 and 6 outside the Communication, Culture and Technology Building.

91�Թ� Scarborough students will get to explore groups and clubs on campus on Sept. 23 at the UTSC Clubs Fair. The location of the event has yet to be determined.

The Student Organization Portal is a great resource to discover campus groups and includes information on what each group does and how to go about joining it.

Explore 91�Թ�’s thriving startup scene

Exhibitors gather at the True Blue Expo during 91�Թ� Entrepreneurship Week

91�Թ� Entrepreneurship (UTE) is hosting AcceleratorFest on Sept. 18 from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus.

The event offers an opportunity for aspiring and established entrepreneurs – as well as those who are merely curious about what it takes to effectively create your own job while attending university – to explore the many resources, spaces and programs available to them across 91�Թ�’s tri-campus network.

There will be representatives from more than a dozen campus accelerators, founders who turned their ideas into impactful businesses and a tour of ONRamp, UTE’s co-working and community spaced housed inside the Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus.

Stay in the know with UTogether and connect with 91�Թ� on social media

There are many ways to connect with the 91�Թ� community and stay in the loop for events happening across the three campuses.

The UTogether web page is a hub of information and helps connect students, faculty members, staff and librarians with important resources – such as health and wellness supports – as well as news and messages from 91�Թ� leadership.

The social media directory is useful for those looking to find and connect with the various university accounts on social media. Use keywords and filters to search or browse the listings. Below are the quick links to the main social media accounts on each campus.

On Instagram

On TikTok

First day of classes (now the same across all three campuses)

Students on the first day of classes at the 91�Թ� Scarborough campus (photo by Ruilin Yuan)

So when does the fall term actually begin? For the first time, students on the St. George campus, 91�Թ� Scarborough and 91�Թ� Mississauga will begin on the same day: Sept. 3.

The alignment follows a review that recommended standardizing critical dates such as the start and end of classes, exam periods, reading weeks and fee deadlines across the three campuses.

The new, more co-ordinated approach is expected to provide a more streamlined and predictable academic experience for the university community.

In photos: Student-run Black Grad event celebrates community, culture and excellence

davidlee — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 16:47:24 +0000

In photos: Student-run Black Grad event celebrates community, culture and excellence

davidlee Mon, 06/24/2024 - 12:47

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Graduating students and recent graduates from across the three campuses sit in Hart House’s Great Hall during the student-run Black Grad celebration, organized annually by 91�Թ�'s Black Student Association (all photos by Polina Teif)

Topic

Subheadline

"Your success is not just personal, but a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations"

Peals of applause reverberated through Hart House’s Great Hall as dozens of graduates and graduating students at the 91�Թ� took to the stage at the Black Student Association’s annual Black Grad celebration, which brings together 91�Թ� community members from across the three campuses.

Taking a page from their U.S. peers, students at 91�Թ� began organizing Black Grad celebrations in 2017 as a way to honour students’ resilience, diversity and academic accomplishments.

91�Թ� News writer Adina Bresge and interactive digital producer Polina Teif captured the celebration earlier this month:

(photo by Polina Teif)

Rows of graduates and graduating students waited to be called to the stage, where each was congratulated by ambassadors from across 91�Թ�’s three campuses.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Doyin Adeyemi, president of 91�Թ�'s Black Students' Association and head of the 2024 Black Grad Planning Committee, said she was honoured to be in a room filled with such Black excellence, acknowledging the challenges her fellow graduates had faced to reach this milestone.

“Your success is not just personal, but a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations,” Adeyemi said.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Meshach Homer said the significance of the occasion hit him as soon as he donned his kente stole.

“When I got here and I saw so many Black people like me, it just feels like we've achieved something so great,” says Homer, who was graduating with an honours bachelor of arts degree from the Institute of Communication, Culture, Information and Technology at 91�Թ� Mississauga.

He says the milestone was all the more special because he was sharing it with his mother, who flew in from Trinidad to see the son she’d raised as a single parent graduate from one of the world’s top universities.

“It’s a big thing to see me happy for all that I have achieved and all that she has achieved raising me the way I am.”

(photo by Polina Teif)

After the proceedings, graduates reunited with friends and family at a reception for hugs, photos and food.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Hannah Flores, a spoken word poet, scientist and life sciences student at New College in the Faculty of Arts & Science, performed a piece dedicated to “the only Black student in the room.”

In keeping with the 2024 theme, “Legacy in Motion: Passing the Baton of Excellence,” the student-run event’s speakers and performers recognized the rich tradition of Black community, culture, and excellence and reminded graduates of their role in carrying forward that mission of empowerment.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Dozens of graduates gathered in the Hart House courtyard for a Class of 2024 portrait.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Naomi Tekle Kiros said attending Black Grad felt like the culmination of a dream she’s been working toward since Grade 8.

“I felt that I was truly honoured and rewarded for what I've accomplished at this campus,” said Kiros, who is graduating with an honours bachelor of arts degree with a double major in sociology and critical studies in equity and solidarity.

Wearing the stole provided by the organizers, a traditional Ethiopian kemis and gold headpiece, Kiros said she was overwhelmed by the sense of fellowship and community permeating the hall and wanted her outfit to highlight how her heritage has shaped her vision for the future and plans to go to law school.

91�Թ� holds flag-raising ceremonies across its three campuses to mark start of Pride Month

Christopher.Sorensen — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:21:00 +0000

91�Թ� holds flag-raising ceremonies across its three campuses to mark start of Pride Month

Christopher.Sorensen Tue, 06/04/2024 - 16:21

Cutline

(photos by Nick Iwanyshyn, Don Campbell and XiaoXiao)

Jelena Damjanovic

Don Campbell

Topic

Our Community

Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education

Subheadline

"Let us celebrate the progress we have made while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead"

Flags have been raised across the 91�Թ�’s three campuses to mark the start of Pride month.

At the St. George campus, the Progress Pride flag was hoisted above Varsity Stadium during an event hosted by the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education (KPE) and the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office.

Gretchen Kerr, dean of KPE, welcomed guests at the event and noted that June is also the start of National Indigenous History Month – a reminder that fighting for 2SLGBTQ+ rights also means fighting for an end to all forms of oppression. “I’m old enough to remember the Toronto bathhouse raids in 1981 and the violence exerted against the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We’ve made progress since then, but we can’t take our feet off the gas pedal,” Kerr said.

"Raising the Progress Pride flag today at 91�Թ� is essentially important as we mark Pride within the context of our ongoing efforts to address many systems of oppression, discrimination, and harassment,” said Jodie Glean-Mitchell, 91�Թ�'s executive director of equity, diversity and inclusion.

"Pride Month is a time to celebrate the contributions that 2SLGBTQ+ people and communities have made – and continue to make – across the university. It is a time to educate ourselves on the past and present lived experience of queer and trans people. Most importantly it's a time to push back, a time for resistance... There is purpose in us being here. We have work to do. But we can only do it together."

At 91�Թ� Scarborough, the More Colour, More Pride and Trans Pride flags were raised to mark the beginning of Pride Month.

“Each of us will choose to mark this day in different ways,” said Cherilyn Scobie Edwards, senior director of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office (EDIO) at 91�Թ� Scarborough.

Left: 91�Թ� Scarborough community members gather to mark the start of Pride Month. Right: Cherilyn Scobie Edwards, senior director of equity, diversity and inclusion, delivers remarks (photos by Don Campbell)

Edwards noted that not everyone has the privilege of being able to celebrate Pride. “It is my hope that today we continue to note that the struggle for freedom and acceptance has not ended and that the fight for true freedom continues,” she said.

Professor Linda Johnston, acting vice-president of 91�Թ� and principal of 91�Թ� Scarborough, and Diana Pearson, equity, diversity and inclusion coordinator with the EDIO, also offered remarks.

The ceremony was followed by a courtyard celebration in front of the Arts and Administration Building featuring snow cones, a Pride balloon display, interactive floral mural and a welcome table set up by the Positive Space Committee.

Pride flags were also raised at 91�Թ� Mississauga last week.

The Progress Pride flag is raised at 91�Թ� Mississauga (photos by Nick Iwanyshyn)

Back at Varsity Stadium, Jasmine Lew, a kinesiology major and track-and-field athlete who was nominated by their peers as the 2SLGBTQ+ community impact honouree, said the raising of the Progress Pride flag is a deeply meaningful moment. “Let us celebrate the progress we have made while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead,” said Lew, “and let us recommit ourselves to building safe and brave spaces that empowers us to love who we love and live authentically.”

Wrapping up the event, Terry Gardiner, KPE’s director of equity, diversity and inclusion, said the raising of the Pride flag represents “a rallying call for all of us, as a community, to continue to work together to bring to life our vision of truly inclusive societies for everyone, everywhere.”

Wesley J. Hall elected to serve as the 35th chancellor of the 91�Թ�

Christopher.Sorensen — Fri, 17 May 2024 00:41:06 +0000

Wesley J. Hall elected to serve as the 35th chancellor of the 91�Թ�

Christopher.Sorensen Thu, 05/16/2024 - 20:41

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Wesley J. Hall, business leader and champion of equity, diversity and inclusion, will serve as the next chancellor of the 91�Թ�.

Hall was elected by 91�Թ�’s College of Electors to serve a three-year term effective July 1, 2024.

He will be the university’s 35th chancellor since its founding in 1827.

“As I take on the role of the chancellor at the 91�Թ�, I am deeply privileged and humbled to carry forward the institution’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and advancement, values that strongly align with my personal beliefs,” said Hall, who holds several honorary doctorates and an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

“I take on this role with a vision where every voice resonates, every perspective is honoured and appreciated, and every opportunity is open to all, regardless of background or experience. Rooted in the belief that education is a fundamental human right, this esteemed position is about dismantling barriers and paving the way toward a more inclusive and equitable future for everyone.

“We are living in a diverse world – but there is still more work to be done. Together, let us champion inclusivity, ensuring that the university remains a beacon of excellence, progress and limitless possibilities.”

Elected for a three-year term, the chancellor is the ceremonial head of the university, presiding at convocations, conferring all university degrees and acting as ambassador to the wider community and alumni worldwide. The chancellor also plays an essential role in advancing the university's interests within the local, provincial, national and international arenas.

Hall’s election follows a rigorous search process conducted by the College of Electors and chaired by Candice Jay. The college, which was established by the Governing Council in 1971, comprises members representing the constituent alumni associations of the 91�Թ� Alumni Association (UTAA) and is charged with the responsibility of electing alumni governors and the chancellor.

“Dr. Wesley Hall is a widely respected and inspirational business leader, and he is deeply committed to creating opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities,” said Meric Gertler, president of 91�Թ�.

“His professional and personal accomplishments and talents make him eminently qualified to take on the position of chancellor. I am delighted that he has accepted this key role, and on behalf of the entire 91�Թ�, I thank him for his willingness to contribute his immense talent and experience to the advancement of our academic mission.”

Hall is Executive Chairman and Founder of WeShall Investments, Kingsdale Advisors and the BlackNorth Initiative. WeShall Investments is a private equity firm with a diverse portfolio of companies predominantly led by BIPOC entrepreneurs. The BlackNorth Inititiave is committed to removing systemic barriers impacting the Black community.

He has improved the lives of thousands of children in the Caribbean and Canada, donating both his money and time. And he has been instrumental in mentoring many of Canada’s Black entrepreneurs and leaders.

“I am delighted with Dr. Wesley Hall's appointment as Chancellor-elect,” said Anna Kennedy, chair of 91�Թ�’s Governing Council.

“Dr. Hall's remarkable achievements in the business world and unwavering dedication to empowering marginalized groups resonate deeply with the 91�Թ�’s values of equity and inclusivity. He is an authentic leader and a community builder, and we anticipate his transformative leadership will enrich our institution's culture and the experience of our students.”

In 2021, Hall partnered with the Rotman School of Management to introduce a new course on Black entrepreneurship and leadership, the first of its kind in North America. Developed in partnership with the BlackNorth Initiative, and with Hall as the lead instructor, the course has proven to be highly successful.

In 2023, 91�Թ� conferred a Doctor of Laws honoris causa on Hall in recognition of his innovative corporate and entrepreneurial leadership, and for his outstanding service to the local community, as a champion for equity on behalf of the Black community. He has also received honorary doctorates from five other universities.

"In addition to his remarkable professional accomplishments, Dr. Wesley Hall’s philanthropic initiatives demonstrate his deep commitment to societal betterment,” said Jay in her role as chair of the College of Electors. “His clear focus on equity and opportunity, and his authentic and inspiring approach as an individual and leader distinguishes him as an outstanding candidate for the role of chancellor. He has a fantastic way of connecting with students and shares stories that inspire change and action. We cannot be more thrilled to welcome him as the next chancellor of the 91�Թ�.”

Hall’s achievements in business, and his work to advance and broaden opportunities for the Black community, have been recognized with numerous awards. In 2021, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce awarded him a Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2022, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce recognized him as Canadian Business Leader of the Year. Long celebrated for his generosity and his commitment to charitable causes, Hall’s board service includes SickKids Foundation, Pathways to Education Canada, the Toronto International Film Festival and Huron University College. He also served on the Capital Markets Modernization Task Force for the Ontario Ministry of Finance.

Hall will succeed Chancellor Rose Patten, whose second term comes to an end on June 30, 2024. At that time, she will have completed the maximum length of service in the role permitted by the 91�Թ� Act, 1971.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Chancellor Patten for her tireless and exceptional work on behalf of the University over the past six years,” said President Gertler.

“I know it is deeply appreciated by the entire University community, and we all look forward to paying tribute to her in the weeks to come.”

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Wesley J. Hall elected to serve as the 35th chancellor of the 91�Թ�