It is hard to believe that September is already here. As each academic year begins, I love seeing our campuses transform into vibrant, lively centers of student activity.
Each year brings us all something new. I am eagerly looking forward to hearing incredible stories from our students, our faculty and our staff as we learn, grow, and discover together this year.
Our Community
The University of Guelph truly is a special place.
As one of Canada’s top comprehensive universities, our institution is a hub of research and teaching excellence, engaging learning opportunities, and an unparalleled student experience. This is all made possible through our world-class faculty and our very talented staff. You are the reason why our institution is excellent.
Those who have been here for a while know that our University has a uniqueness to it. A distinct culture or genius that draws the curious and the inspirational to the U of G.
I encourage our faculty and staff to always strive to create an inclusive, welcoming experience for our students. Invite them into our community with open arms and show them what the U of G is all about.
I encourage our students to explore their interests, connect with those around them, and make their mark on our community. Take part in our clubs, athletics and sports teams, world-class research collaborations, and explore our campuses. The video below explores some of what the U of G offers students:
Campus Safety & Inclusion
Like so many of you, I have been affected by the incidents of hatred and discrimination at U of G and beyond over the past year. As a community committed to IEDI values, we must continue to do all we can to foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone. We must also continue to stand together to oppose hate and stand up for those who are oppressed or marginalized.
In preparation for this new academic year, we have conducted safety assessments and put additional safety measures in place. Our campus safety update has more information on our continued efforts for this academic year.
This is Our Time
This spring, we launched Our Time – a five-year strategic plan that will enable us to focus on our strategic priorities:
- deepening our impact on the world
- transforming the University through Indigenization and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- improving our student experience
- building a sustainable tomorrow
- and supporting faculty and staff
To realize our vision and fulfill our goals, the University will leverage its digital and financial capacity as we modernize and digitize the way in which we operate.
Over the course of this year, I look forward to sharing stories about our progress towards these initiatives and highlighting the great work that our community has done.
I wish you the best for the 2023-2024 academic year. Let us make it one to remember.
Dr. Charlotte A.B. Yates
President & Vice-Chancellor