In 2024, we're continuing our engagement with York University's community partners. As a large employer and economic contributor to the communities we serve, York has boundless potential to contribute to their development and success.
Here are some highlights of our activities so far this year:
Lunar New Year
York University was proud to be a Gold Sponsor of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Lunar New Year celebration dinner. Bringing together business leaders and elected officials from across the region, it was a great opportunity to connect with the Markham community. It was also the Mayor's first such dinner since February, 2020, so it was great to be back.
Markham Community Skate Day
The York team was pleased to welcome the Markham community to the Civic Centre skating rink on February 24 for free hot chocolate, cookies, giveaways, and a photo booth. With a clear sky and a stiff breeze, it was perfect skating weather. We were also joined by our special guests, Markham City Councillors Amanda Collucci, Isa Lee, Ritch Lau, Reid McAlpine, Member of Parliament Paul Chiang and of course, Yeo the Lion.
Doors Open Toronto 2024
At the end of May, we were pleased to work with the team at the Allan I. Carswell Observatory to participate in Doors Open Toronto. The Observatory welcomed hundreds of enthusiastic visitors to see the largest telescope on any Canadian university campus. It was great to see so many people excited to learn about the Observatory's work and we were thrilled to help facilitate it.
The Observatory is a truly remarkable part of the York campus and provides regular public access, so it's a can't-miss attraction for anyone who's ever taken an interest in the night sky. Learn more about it here.
Markham Canada Day Celebration
The Community Relations team joined with our Markham Campus colleagues to ring in the nation's 157th birthday at a jam-packed festival in downtown Markham. The York tent was incredibly popular and it was a delight to see so many people enjoying the festivities on a gorgeous sunny day.
The York University Markham campus is now open and provides cutting-edge programming at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more about it here.
Richmond Hill Rib Fest
It wouldn't be a complete summer without a big plate of ribs and a great big festival to go with it. In July, the York team went to Richmond Hill for its annual Rib Fest event, which drew more than 30,000 people over three days. There was never a quiet moment at our booth, so it was a fantastic opportunity to spread the word about our new Markham Campus.
The York Markham Campus opened for classes in September 2024 and is the first university location in all of York Region. Learn more here.
Duke Heights Bike Giveaway and Race
In August, we welcomed staff from the Duke Heights Business Improvement Area (BIA) to Keele Campus to host their annual bike giveaway and race. The BIA organized the donation of more than a hundred bikes to local families and it was our pleasure to support this great event. Thanks to everyone who participated, including the offices of Councillors James Pasternak and Anthony Perruzza, the whole Duke Heights team!
The Duke Heights BIA serves the region of Toronto bounded by Dufferin & Keele Streets in the east and west, and Steeles & Sheppard Avenues in the north and south. Learn more by visiting their website here.
Markham-Milliken Children's Festival
On the first Saturday of September, the York team could be found at the Aaniin Community Centre in South Markham for the annual Milliken Children's Festival. This was a splendid chance to meet and greet with the local families in the community.
The Milliken Children's Festival takes place every year at the beginning of September, is open to all, and is a great day out for families with small children. Mark it in your calendar for next September!
North Western Toronto OHT Community Health & Wellness Fair
At the end of September, the team from York University's TD Community Engagement Centre were happy to participate in the annual community health fair organized by the local Ontario Health Team (OHT). It was a splendid chance to spread the word about important information regarding health services and resources to the community in North Western Toronto. York University provided giveaways and information to residents regarding community programming and wellness resources available to them on Keele campus.
Learn more about the North Western Toronto OHT by visiting their website here.
Markham Santa Claus Parade
At the end of November, York University was pleased to participate in the 50th annual Markham Santa Claus Parade. It was great to see so many people brave the cold and line the city’s historic Main Street for some festive cheer. As ever, we were pleased to have the opportunity for Yeo the Lion make an appearance.