Members of the York community were among the many friends, family and colleagues who gathered at the prestigious Woodbine Banquet Hall & Convention Centre this past Sunday afternoon to celebrate the Honorable Jean Augustine’s 80th birthday. Donations from the event will be directed to the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora in the Faculty of Education at York University.
The current chair, Dr. Carl James, is focused on addressing issues and concerns related to Black and other marginalized groups within a framework of equity, inclusivity and social justice.
The afternoon brunch featured an array of entertainment and music as well as tributes by Mayor John Tory, Premier Kathleen Wynne, MP Celina Caesar-Chavannes and Education Minister Mitzie Hunter. The guest of honour was also treated to surprise appearances from actors Danny Glover and Joseph Marcell (Geoffrey on Fresh Prince of Bel-Air) who dropped by to extend birthday greetings.
“It was both an honour and pleasure to be a part of this exceptional event”, said Lyndon Martin, Dean of York University’s Faculty of Education. “We look forward to continuing to build on Dr. Augustine’s legacy of social justice and community advocacy through the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community and Diaspora at York University.”