To our alumni, donors and friends,
As the year comes to a close, we have, (as I’m sure many of you have), find it useful to take a moment to look back and reflect on everything we have to be thankful for from the past year. And in doing so, we want to thank you – our alumni, donors and friends – whose continued support is the backbone of the University, driving us forward and helping us reach success at every turn.
2016 has been an exciting year to say the least. Throughout the year, a number of you came out to our events, participated in volunteer opportunities, made use of exclusive alumni privileges all in an effort to stay engaged with York. Most exciting of all, 2016 marked the official launch of our most ambitious fundraising campaign to date. IMPACT: The Campaign for York University will accelerate our impact in research, teaching and community building. We’re truly ecstatic at the opportunity to help prepare engaged global citizens, build stronger communities and mobilize new ways of thinking.
This past year has shown us a level of generosity and support that warms our hearts. Since the campaign launch we have raised $270 million of the $500 million goal with alumni making up 80% of the financial contributions.
Alumni, donors and friends have supported us through a multitude of ways, including philanthropic efforts, but also participation in mentoring programs, attending events and volunteering time and energy to different projects around campus. Every bit counts and in turn helps us realize our vision for York University.
And looking back on this year with fond memories, we also look ahead to what’s next for York University and our community. We are determined to build upon the successes we’ve enjoyed in 2016, and use all that we’ve learned from our programs, events and from you, our alumni, donors and friends, to ensure an 2017 is bigger and better than ever.
With your continued support and participation over the next year and beyond, we will go on building the best York imaginable, together!
Wishing all of you a festive holiday season – here’s to a fantastic 2017!
Guy Larocque (BA ‘89, MA ‘97)
Executive Director
The Office of Alumni Engagement
York University