Monthly Updates

Division of Students Strategic Plan 2020-2025Monthly Updates

FebruaryWhat's New?

Invest in Our People

Building a Transfer Receptive Culture: Module 1 training session

Module 1 of the Transfer Student Training Series launched, with 10 staff attending in person and 40 virtually. The session introduced who transfer students are, their unique pathways and how intentional, role-specific practices can support belonging, clarity and student success across York.

Module 1 marked a strong launch of the Transfer Student Training Series, generating campus-wide interest and building early momentum toward a more coordinated and transfer-receptive approach at York.
January Division of Students Check-in with the Vice Provost Students

The Vice Provost Students (VPS) met with Divisional staff in January to wish staff a Happy New Year, check-in and thank staff for their support with the January startup. The VPS shared the priorities of the senior leadership team and invited staff to share how the start of the term has been.

80+
staff joined for the divisional check-in!

Reinforce Our Foundation

New book published about Sanctuary Scholars

Defying Higher Education Borders with Migrant Students in Canada: Building Counterstories and Sanctuary Universities explores Sanctuary Scholars students' struggles for equitable access to higher education and focuses on the first-of-its-kind bridging program at York.

Click to read

The Vari Hall Kiosk assisted more than 650 students in the first week back from winter break. This warm winter welcome included some fun activities, including a wishing tree, where students could leave their hopes for the new year. 

1,400+
students were assisted in the month of January!

Impact the Student Journey

Black Excellence at York University (BE YU) hosted Rooted in Curls, a workshop exploring the history and cultural significance of Black hair while sharing practical natural hair care tips. Guest students Fatima and Rachel led a hands-on hair braiding demonstration.

Rooted in Curls honoured the legacy of Black hair through education, culture and community.
Student advising community hosts Winter Pop-up Fair

In January, the advising community came together for a winter edition of the Pop-up Fair. Students had the opportunity to connect with advisors at the Keele, Markham and Glendon campuses to ask questions and learn about services.

~700
students connected with advisors at York's campuses for the pop-up.
Roundtable Discussion: Black mature international student experience at York University

This event, hosted in partnership with the Black Excellence team and ACMAPS, brought together Black mature international students to share their experiences at York and offer insights on identity, community, challenges and opportunities for a more inclusive campus environment.

Explore more events
Panellists shared how community strengthens identity, builds resilience and supports growth. Attendees left inspired to stay authentic and lean on the community for collective strength.
Building skills and resilience through peer-led workshops

Peer mentors led two engaging workshops this term: Study Harder, Not Smarter and Stop Spiralling! One Bad Grade Doesn’t Define You. helping students build smarter study habits, manage setbacks and stay motivated through challenges.

Peer-led workshops build study skills and resilience, helping students reduce stress and feel more confident. This supports well-being, belonging and readiness for long-term success.

In January, EWAG opened its fourth exhibition of the year, "Crafts in Contemporary Spaces." This exciting exhibition, curated by student Talia, features fine craft submissions from York students, including fibre arts, ceramics and other mediums. Open until Thursday, February 12. 

This exhibition features a variety of mediums created by York students, including ceramics, fibre arts, acrylic on wood, conceptual art, beadwork, and more!