Writer, teacher, ‘knowledge carrier’: U of T remembers Lee Maracle

Celebrated Indigenous author Lee Maracle is being remembered by U of T as an inspirational instructor, adviser, activist and mentor to students — and as someone whose pen helped draw attention to the need for decolonization in Canada. Maracle passed away November 11 at age 71.

Sidney Smith Hall transformation will allow faculty growth well into the future

Sidney Smith Hall is set to undergo a transformation that will create an outstanding space for innovative learning, teaching and research in U of T's Arts & Science. “Our goal is to create a contemporary, accessible and state-of-the-art space for our students, staff and faculty, and the wider community,” says Melanie Woodin, dean of Arts & Science.

Congratulations to the Class of 2021

The Arts & Science community is so proud of its Class of 2021! In the weeks leading up to fall convocation on November 18, we heard stories of lessons learned, creative pursuits, overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles and plenty of words of wisdom for students just starting out. “You don't have to stick to what you know,” says Georgia Maxwell, who is celebrating earning her master's degree in English literature.

Alumnus helping create role models for Black, underrepresented youth

An Arts & Science alumnus and his life partner have established the Robert Davis and Joseph Chen Access and Diversity Bursary at A&S to support students from Black and other underrepresented populations. Through a separate bequest, they're ensuring their impact will continue to be felt for a long time to come.

U of T to divest from fossil fuel investments, create climate-positive campus

As part of sustainability measures announced in October, the University of Toronto is divesting from all direct investments in fossil fuel companies within the next 12 months, and from indirect investments by no later than 2030.

Citizen Lab raises concerns about proposed new privacy legislation

The authors of a report on how personal information has been collected and shared during the COVID-19 pandemic are raising alarms about potential new privacy legislation.

A robust human rights framework is needed in any new legislation to protect citizen's privacy.

Tunnel-like structure may surround our solar system, U of T astronomer says

An Arts & Science astronomer's research suggests the solar system is surrounded by a magnetic tunnel that can be seen in radio waves.

Jennifer West is making a scientific case that two bright structures seen on opposite sides of the sky are connected and made of rope-like filaments.

Leading political scientist named as new Munk School director

Professor Peter Loewen — a leading political scientist — is the new director of the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Affairs. Loewen's research focuses primarily on how politicians and citizens can make better choices, how governments can address the disruption of technology and harness its opportunities, and the politics of COVID-19.

English prof's book builds on The Divine Comedy

A U of T English professor has published Dante's Indiana, the second novel of his trilogy based on poet Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy.

Randy Boyagoda, also Arts & Science vice-dean, undergraduate, says the original trilogy — which comprises Inferno (hell), Purgatorio (purgatory) and Paradiso (heaven) — still has the power to connect with those who have lost their way.

Students and new grads: take your next steps with us

Students and new graduates are invited to the Next Steps Conference from January 25 to 27. The online conference is a great way to build professional networks, explore a variety of careers and prepare for life after graduation. With a range of speakers, career exploration panels and networking opportunities, Next Steps helps participants explore their options — including those they didn't even know they had.