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New programs, opportunities will shape students into future leaders

We are excited to introduce the December 2024 edition of Innovatus from the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS). Explore the cutting-edge innovations and programs that our Faculty has proudly developed and discover how these initiatives are positively impacting the success of our students.

JJ McMurtry
J.J. McMurtry

As the largest Faculty at York University, we have the unique privilege of collaborating across disciplines to continuously evolve our curriculum and introduce new programming to meet society’s changing needs. This past year, we have worked with colleagues across the University to develop innovative programs that not only benefit our students, but also prepare them to make a positive impact on the world around them. These success stories highlight our Faculty’s creativity, adaptability and commitment to shaping our students into future leaders. 
 
Exciting opportunities have emerged within LA&PS, showcasing our dedication to providing valuable experiences for both our students and faculty members. This includes the official launch of our optional Co-op Program in Fall 2024, offering all LA&PS students, starting in their second year of study, the opportunity to acquire paid work experience in their desired field. Additionally, thanks to the hard work of our faculty members who have secured Co-operative Education & Work Integrated Research Grants (CEWIL), students now have the opportunity to participate in field placements with industry partners. This will provide valuable work experience related to their field of study. 

The Department of Languages, Literatures and Linguistics inaugural course (DLLL 1001), called University Literacies and Belonging, has been met with great success. Designed to better equip incoming students with essential skills and connections to ensure a successful university journey, the course represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities that international and transfer students may encounter throughout their academic endeavours. 

We would also like to take this opportunity to highlight the success of our LA&PS colleges re-envisioning, an exercise that began in 2022 in an effort to pool resources and better support students throughout their academic journey starting from their pre-arrival at York through to graduation and beyond. A prime example of this is the launch of the new First-year Experience eClass by McLaughlin College, which aims to provide comprehensive support to students through essential resources and peer mentorship.  

Additionally, initiatives such as the Dean’s Award for Research Excellence (DARE) further extend experiential education opportunities for students to push their boundaries by collaborating with esteemed faculty members on research projects during the summer term.  
 
We extend our sincere gratitude to all staff and faculty members for their hard work and dedication to providing practical education and experiences that empower our students to become change-makers. Your unwavering commitment to excellence and student success is truly appreciated. Thank you! 

All my best, 

J.J. McMurtry
Dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies


In this issue:

CEWIL grants empower students, drive success in work-integrated learning
Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) grants are making a difference for students in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies by creating greater access to experiential education.

York's colleges foster community, belonging
York University's colleges are redefining student support and creating a welcoming environment for all.

New course helps York students thrive in university life
York University is helping students adjust to university life and find their place on campus with academic and social support offered through a new, innovative course.

DARE program transforms student’s research journey
York student Matteo Cerilli uncovered hidden history through a Dean's Award for Research Excellence (DARE) research project investigating the aftermath of the 1981 Toronto bathhouse raids.

Editor's Picks Innovatus Special Issues Teaching & Learning York in Focus

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