York University Hails, Bids Farewell to founding president Murray G. Ross

TORONTO, July 21, 2000 -- "York University has lost one of its greatest visionaries and most colourful champions," President Lorna Marsden said today, responding with sadness and sympathy to the death of York's founding president, Murray G. Ross.

President Emeritus Ross, who led York University through its first decade, 1960-1970, died last night at age 90.

"On behalf of York University, I extend my sympathies to Murray's family, and I share with the York community a great sadness at his passing -- but also a fullness and gratitude for all that he brought to this university," said Marsden.

" Murray's values, vision and steadfastness provided the solid foundation upon which this university was built," said Marsden. "In 1959, we had no faculty, no students, no buildings -- but we had the vision, tenacity and humanity of President Murray G. Ross and his grand dreams. Forty-one years later, we have evolved into the third largest university in Canada. Throughout those years, and in the years to come, the mark of Murray Ross will be felt," said Marsden.

Marsden praised the tenacity of President Emeritus Ross, who led York during its formative years, which were marked by incredible change as provincial governments across the land rushed to accommodate the educational needs of the baby boomers. Ross had a vision for doing that, with an emphasis on liberal arts and part-time adult education. He has remained a valuable and active faculty member since his time as president.

An officer of the Order of Canada, Ross had a long and distinguished career in the academic world, both as a professor and an administrator. In addition to his decade at the helm of York University, he was also a former vice-president of the University of Toronto. He published several books of note, including Canadian Corporate Directors on the Firing Line, New Universities in the Modern World, and The Way Must be Tried: Memoirs of a University Man. Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia, he was educated at Acadia University, University of Toronto, University of Chicago and Columbia University. A director of numerous community and national organizations, Ross's contributions to academic, social and intellectual spheres were duly recognized by many universities, including York, which bestowed on him honorary degrees.

A university memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 19 at 4 p.m. at Glendon College.

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For more information, please contact:

Sine MacKinnon
Senior Advisor/Director, Media Relations
York University
(416) 736-2100, ext. 22087
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