More than 100 York University graduate students and postdoctoral fellows were recognized at this year’s Scholars Reception, which celebrates research funding awarded through major internal and external scholarship competitions.
Representatives from the graduate program in Socio-legal Studies
The event celebrated more than $28 million in federal, provincial and other major external awards from 2012 to 2015, and approximately $60 million in York U awards from 2011 to 2015.
Hosted by the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) and the Division of Advancement, the event recognized the research accomplishments of some of York’s exceptional scholars from a variety of disciplines, including social sciences, humanities, arts, science and engineering.
“Graduate studies plays a crucial role in developing and establishing a vibrant and innovative research culture at York,” said Barbara Crow, dean of FGS and event host, during the reception. “In addition, York currently hosts over 160 postdoctoral fellows conducting cutting-edge research. I’m extremely proud of the accomplishments of all of you, and honoured to be in my role to support your success.”
Will Gage, associate vice-president, teaching and learning, commended the scholars for the dedication to their research, as well as their participation in training undergraduate students as teaching assistants, course directors, lab supervisors, tutors and mentors.
“I can’t emphasize enough the important contributions that all of you make in keeping York an active and vibrant learning community,” he said.
Representatives from the graduate program in Gender, Feminist & Women’s Studies
Speakers at the event also highlighted student success. Kate Tschrihart of Advancement talked about the importance of donor contributions and how they enable student success, while PhD students Diane Sepa-Kishi (kinesiology and health science), Marina Tchistaiam (linguistics and applied linguistics) and Sam Tecle (sociology) shared details of their research projects, and how their funding has allowed them to grow as scholars and leaders in their respective communities.
Some of the research projects highlighted during the event included: examining wastewater as a potential renewable energy; the relationship between iconography, identity and branding; investigating antihydrogen; the impact of social constructions of masculinity on sexual violence against women; and 16th century Italian duelling as a form of mediation and dispute resolution.
The Scholars Reception is an opportunity for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to meet and celebrate with other researchers at York University, and with faculty and staff who assist with scholarship applications and adjudications throughout the year.
The event is held annually in December.