On Thursday, May 9, faculty and staff from across campus came together to celebrate, connect, and rejuvenate at the U of G Spring Social. As colleagues connected over a shared meal in the University Centre, the first floor was buzzing with energy.  

“It is always exciting when I have the opportunity to get together with the U of G community! I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with faculty and staff the Spring Social as we take a minute to have a break, share a meal, and remind ourselves of the great work we do for the University,” shared Charlotte Yates, president & vice-chancellor. 

This year’s social also coincided with U of G’s 60th anniversary, celebrated with 60th balloons, cake and classic U of G cookies. 

As we made the rounds at the social, we asked attendees to reflect on who has impacted them in the past year.

Genna Villella stands in the UC during the staff social. She's wearing a red Guelph Gryphons t-shirt and smiling at the camera.

Genna Villella, Event Supervisor, Department of Athletics

“My whole team – the facilities unit in the Department of Athletics – has made such a big impact on me. In the chaos that work can sometimes be, they help bring the calm and the relief.” 

A group of four staff post for a group photo.

Michael Gibson, Lead Hand, Area D6, Physical Resources

“My manager, Danna-Lee Peters, consistently makes a significant impact on me. She is a fantastic role model and a strong leader, always organized and treating everyone fairly and with respect. Her example drives me to continually strive to be a positive leader and employee.”

Danielle Gordon stands in front of a green photo wall that says University of Guelph and poses for a photo wearing a bright white and pink floral shirt.

Danielle Gordon, Marketing and Communications, Admission Services

“My manager Effie Gatsinos has really impacted me. She’s taught me that just having open communication is really key.” 

Adam Morris stands at the base of a set of steps in the University Centre and smiles at the camera wearing a black U of G polo shirt.

Adam Morris, Manager Trainee, Hospitality Services

“I started only in January of this year. I love just working as a team and in hospitality in general. I think it’s a very exciting department.” 

A group of four women pose together for a group photo at the spring social.

Jill Davies, Communications and Marketing Manager, Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance

“My entire team has impacted me in very positive ways. When I’m having a bad day, I can relax and chat though some of the anxieties. They’re such a delightful bunch of people.”  

Thanks to everyone who came out and made the 2024 Spring Social a memorable one! Here are a few more photos from the event. View the full photo album on Flickr.

A group of four people sit at a table at the spring social.

More U of G News:

  1. Smart Salt Trucks, Managing Waterborne Diseases: Ontario Invests in U of G Research 
  2. Top U of G Stories of 2024
  3. Why Grief Over Lost Pets Hits Harder During Holidays 
  4. How to Prevent Food Waste From Holiday Meals