To our U of T Engineering community
I wanted to check in with everyone as the end of our Winter Term nears. I know the coming weeks can feel like some of the busiest of the year — at the same time, the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer. It’s a season for change and fresh starts.
The municipal and provincial governments continue to update and gradually lift restrictions. As the University recently shared, the safety and health of the whole U of T community remains the top priority, and U of T will keep its policies on masks and vaccinations in place at least for the rest of the Winter Term. This approach is consistent across Ontario universities.
It has been terrific and so energizing to meet up in person with many members of our community — I really value these spontaneous conversations, hearing how things are going for you and the challenges you’re facing. I’ve found the ‘Coffee With Chris’ sessions I hosted for staff and faculty in January, and students in March, to be enlightening and inspiring.
I certainly recognize that there’s a complex mix of stressful factors at play right now. The end of the term is a demanding time — and this year we’re also still navigating the pandemic, and grappling with global conflict, uncertainty and instability. Please do take advantage of the supports and resources that are available 24/7 to all students, staff and faculty.
I see brighter days ahead — we will be returning to in-person spring convocation ceremonies this year, Iron Ring was in person just this past weekend, and right now it looks like we’re in good shape to hold final exams safely in person. As always, we will update you with any changes.
Wishing each of you a successful rest of the Winter Term, and a happy and healthy spring!
Chris
Christopher Yip
Dean
Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
University of Toronto