UTSC will play an important role in addressing U of T’s key strategic priorities, said President Meric Gertler to a packed crowd during his Town Hall talk on September 12.
While formal talks will begin soon on how to advance the goals outlined in his installation address, Gertler said UTSC’s strategic plan already shows how U of T’s highest priorities might be realized on each of its campuses, according to their distinctive histories, needs and strengths.
“From its inception, UTSC has been committed to accessibility and inclusiveness, collaboration with the community, and the highest standards of academic excellence,” said Gertler. “The spirit in this room reminds us what a remarkable place this is. Fifty years on, UTSC is as vibrant as ever.”
Gertler spoke about UTSC’s innovative academic culture including its ground-breaking co-op programs and creative community partnerships. He also highlighted the development of emerging fields of study and innovative programs such as Tamil Studies, the minor in Chinese Translation, the new specialist program in Entrepreneurship and Canada’s first Neuroscience program, among others.
He also said UTSC will play an important role in re-imagining undergraduate education at U of T by increasing the number of students involved in existing research opportunities as well as expanding the number of different research opportunities offered.
“UTSC reflects the marvellous diversity of the eastern GTA, and, as a result, attracts top scholars and students from around the globe. At the same time, its innovative academic culture has gone from strength to strength,” he said. “UTSC has a lot to look forward to—and that’s a key factor in my own excitement for the future of the University of Toronto and its tri-campus system.”
Gertler, Kidd and other UTSC executives also took time to answer a range of questions including transit options to and from the campus, the impact of the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre, efforts to help international graduate students, important issues facing the Eastern GTA and tuition fees.