York University is described as an “intellectual oasis in the suburbs" by the Globe and Mail's annual Canadian University Report released this week. The report highlights York's highly rated programs in business, social work, fine arts, psychology and criminology, where students enjoy a vibrant, politically engaged culture and a strong commitment to social justice. The report also points out that the University has recently broken ground on the Lassonde School of Engineering's new building and has demonstrated exceptional dedication to sustainability.
The report is used as a tool by prospective university students and their parents, and it plays an important role in creating an understanding of what each university offers.
"Given our distinct and acknowledged strengths in diverse areas of study, this description of York University reflects the dynamic, comprehensive university York has become," says Mamdouh Shoukri, president and vice-chancellor of York University. "It also compliments and reinforces our recent brand campaign efforts in which we profile York professors who are global thought leaders in their fields, as 
well as our accomplished alumni who are making a positive impact in the world."
York's “hotshot prof” Dawn Bazely
A “hotshot prof” is listed for each school in Canada – Dawn Bazely, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, is identified as York's. Professor Bazely continues to make innovative changes to her courses, bringing her research and life experience into the classroom, and serving as a great and passionate mentor. A winner of York's 2013 President’s University-Wide Teaching Awards, Bazely also spearheads research at the Institute for Research and Innovation in Sustainability.
The report also recognized Janice Fukakusa, chief financial officer at Royal Bank of Canada, who was inducted into Canada's Most Powerful Women Hall of Fame in 2007, as one of the York's notable alumni.
The Globe and Mail's Canadian University Report is released in October of every year. Information is gathered from professors, alumni and the universities themselves, as well as through interviews with current and former students about the "good and bad of their university experience”, the report states.