TORONTO, November 16, 1997 -- York University continues to come first in its class in the indicators most meaningful to students, York University President Dr. Lorna Marsden said today in response to the annual Maclean's University Rankings issue.

"York University continues to have the most classes taught by tenured faculty, the most PhDs, and the greatest financial commitment to student services," said Marsden. "York is clearly a student-centred university where students are taught by the most-educated faculty whose award-winning research is fed right into the classroom, even at the first year level," she said.

The Maclean's rankings place York University 5th overall in the comprehensive category, which consists of 13 universities. York ranked first in classes taught by tenured faculty; first in student services as a percentage of budget; second in the number of awards per full-time faculty; and second in medical and science grants.

York's commitment to academic excellence and student service can be seen in its choices: When faced with a 25 per cent decrease in funding, York chose to protect its faculty complement and improve its student assistance. And it worked hard to raise the second highest amount of money -- $33 million -- for student assistance under the Ontario Student Opportunities Trust Fund.

"The range and rapidity of York University's success -- in attracting bright and committed students and faculty, in providing innovative programs, and in working with local, national and international communities on socially responsive research projects -- remains clear," said Marsden, adding that York University will continue to work diligently to improve its progress as we move into the next millennium.

Marsden said this annual Maclean's exercise generates well-deserved attention on the state of universities in Canada today. She pointed to some compelling issues that students, parents, alumni, and employers should be contemplating: Ontario universities are the least well funded of all universities across Canada. And within the Ontario system, York University is hit with an inequitable funding formula that does not serve students or taxpayers well.

York University, founded in 1959, is Canada's third largest university. It is nationally and internationally respected for its innovative research and award-winning teaching. With its combination of dedicated and talented faculty, opportunities for bright and ambitious students, dynamic curriculum and modern campus in one of North America's most influential urban centres, York University is setting the modern standard in academic excellence.

For more information or to arrange interviews with Dr. Marsden, please contact:

Sine MacKinnon
Senior Advisor for Media Relations
(416) 736-2100, ext. 22087 or (416) 716-2916
YU/102/97