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Highlights 2025

In 2025, we're continuing our engagement with York University's community partners. With our Markham campus now open and the School of Medicine approved and planned for opening in 2028, we're looking ahead to a bright future.

Here are some highlights of our activities so far this year:

Markham Community Skate Day

At the beginning of February, the York team was at the Markham Civic Centre for our annual Markham Community Skate Day event. Thanks to Councillor Reid McAlpine and MP Paul Chiang and all of the community members who joined us!  It was a cold day, but the skating and hot chocolate certainly warmed us up.  Special shout out to the York University Figure Skating Club, who joined us this year and showed off their very impressive talents on the ice.

Lunar New Year

This year, the University was pleased to once again support Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Lunar New Year celebration dinner. A major event for community, business leaders and public officials from across the region, it was wonderful to celebrate with everyone.

Vaughan Community Health Lecture

On April 22, York University was pleased to partner with Mackenzie Health and the City of Vaughan to present the second Vaughan Community Health Lecture. Mental health experts from York University and Mackenzie Health joined the panel to discuss a variety of mental health issues, wellness practices and resources available to community members. 

International Museum Day at Markham Museum  

York University was delighted to celebrate International Museum Day at the Markham Museum! This year’s theme was Technology: Past and Present and we were thrilled to have a 3-D printer as well as some of the VR headsets on display that our students get to use while studying at York University. 

Doors Open Toronto  

In May, the York University campus hosted two events for Doors Open Toronto 2025. Visitors turned out in large numbers to tour the Allan I Carswell Observatory and the Nursing Simulation Centre. Visitors to the area could also see the Archives of Ontario, the Village at Black Creek, and the new Toronto Region Conservation Authority head office building. 

Markham Canada Day Event  

York University was proud to be the education sponsor for the City of Markham’s annual Canada Day event. The weather was beautiful this year and it was wonderful to have so many community members drop by our booth to join us for craft activities and some free giveaways.  

Duke Heights BIA Bike Event  

York was pleased to once again welcome staff from the Duke Heights Business Improvement Area (BIA) to Keele Campus for their annual bike giveaway and race. We had a great time promoting cycling and teaching bike safety to kids! This was a fantastic event that brought York University, BIA businesses, and neighbouring communities together. 

Thanks to everyone who participated, including the whole Duke Heights team! 

Markham-Milliken Children’s Festival 

We had a great time participating in the Markham-Milliken Children’s festival again this year.  It’s always nice to chat with local residents about what’s new at our Markham Campus and to see some of our alumni enjoying the event with their families.   

Future of Health Innovation Forum  

This September, York University was pleased to present the Future of Health Innovation Forum in partnership with the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce. With expertise from leaders in health, business and policy, the Forum explored how innovation is transforming the way we deliver healthcare. 

Doors Open Markham 

On September 20th, York University’s Markham Campus hosted Doors Open. In addition to showcasing our new state-of-the-art Markham campus, this visit was an opportunity to highlight the campus’ academic programs and research in technology and entrepreneurship. Thanks to MP Michael Ma, MPP Billy Pang, and all the community members who joined us! 

Markham ScaryFest 2025 

At ScaryFest 2025, York showcased its Halloween spirit with spooktacular VR headset and 3D Printer demonstrations. We had a fabulous time getting to know all the wonderful community members who attended at the Markham Museum for the event.    

Markham Santa Claus Parade 

York University was delighted to once again participate in the City of Markham’s annual Santa Claus Parade. This was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our enthusiasm and school spirit and engage with members of the local community. A big thank you to all the YorkU student volunteers who helped make this day a big success!