Dear York community,
Since 2002 I have had the honour to be a part of the York University community. It has been an absolute joy to contribute to the trajectory of this unique post-secondary institution, first as dean, then vice-provost, provost and finally for the last eight-plus years as president and vice-chancellor.
What first attracted me to York holds true today and is reflected in the vision statement of the University – namely, the commitment to access, excellence, connectedness and impact that continue to enhance the well-being of the communities that we serve.
Last fall, I began a discussion with the Board of Governors Executive Committee about a possible timeline for completing my second term as president and vice-chancellor. It was important for me to know that the University was on solid footing and that plans were in place to maintain the incredible momentum that we have achieved.
Significant progress has been made in the case of all the priorities set out in the Building a Better Future: York University Academic Plan 2020-2025. The community continues to accelerate research and innovation activities and enhance 21st century learning in a multitude of ways. The new Markham Campus was successfully launched this past fall, positioning York for future growth. We have realized a long-term ambition for a School of Medicine, opening up new opportunities for our students and for York that will meet the urgent need for family doctors and other primary health-care physicians, and we have developed the YorkU Forward Action Plan to further strengthen the University and the student learning experience while responding to the financial pressures facing the sector. Strategically important projects regarding program enhancements, enrolment growth, organizational optimization, administrative efficiencies and revenue diversification, among others, are well underway, continuing to enhance our financial sustainability and global reputation.
With that, I have let the board know that I will end my term as president and vice-chancellor on Dec. 31, 2025.
I remain committed to this University and the inspiring students, faculty, staff, volunteers and partners who comprise this community. Over the next six months, I will focus on consolidating activities that are advancing the University’s priorities including the YorkU Forward Action Plan, the evolution of the Markham Campus, the School of Medicine, York’s financial sustainability and supporting the transition.
Following this, I expect to stay actively involved with York as a member of the community including fundraising for the School of Medicine and other strategic initiatives.
I am fortunate to be a part of the legacy of York and the amazing students that we graduate – many of whom I have the pleasure of meeting as alumni as they make a difference in multiple sectors around the world. I want to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Governors, Senate, the entire administrative team and the rest of the York community. I have learned a great deal over my 22-plus years at this institution, for which I will always be grateful.
Every success is a team effort and I look forward to seeing what we can do together over the next six months and into the future.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Lenton
President & Vice-Chancellor