We’re taking you back in time as long-time members of our community share with us their fondest memories from their York University journey. This is LA&PS Through the Ages.
Catherine Salole has been a member of the York University community for 10 years. She has been an integral part in the success and development of LA&PS students throughout their university career.
When did you first join the York University community and what was your role?
I began working at York University in February of 2010 when I was hired as the Director of Student Community and Leadership Development in the Division of Students.
What’s the most important thing you learned during your journey here at York University?
I have learned so much during my time at York University. If I were to narrow it down though it would be that excellence and innovation exists everywhere. There are endless opportunities to amplify this great work by finding ways to partner and collaborate. A wonderful example of this is the work of the newly formed New Student Transition Working Group, which is comprised of members from multiple LA&PS teams in the Dean’s Office and Colleges. Together they developed and implemented a seamless, integrated and coordinated strategy to support students as they transitioned into LA&PS and contributed to one of the highest summer retention rates of students newly admitted to the Faculty.
What inspires you at work every day?
I am inspired by the Faculty’s students who drive me to do my very best to support them and their success. Our students had choices yet they chose to be part of the York University community. I feel it is therefore incumbent to first understand who our students are and what their needs might be, then use this information to deliver programs, initiatives and supports to help them achieve their personal, educational and professional goals.
What has been the most memorable moment of your York University journey?
Throughout the years there has been many, but my most memorable moments have always been times when I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with others. I have been very fortunate to be involved in many pan-university and Faculty initiatives, such as YU Start, LA&PS advising revisioning, and the recent anti-Black racism conversations series. In all of these moments, I have been blessed to be able to work alongside smart, creative, and talented colleagues who share my passion for developing exceptional programs and learning environments that enrich students’ academic experience.
What do you miss most about being on campus?
You can probably tell that I love being part of the York community so it shouldn’t be a surprise to hear that I miss the people. I miss seeing students and my colleagues each day. I miss the energy of the campus, the informal check-ins and those impromptu hallway chats and office drop-ins. I miss beginning each day with the Central Square Tim Hortons morning crew and a warm cup of steeped tea.