NEWS & EVENTS

September 26, 2023

Simon Fraser University respectfully acknowledges the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), q̓íc̓əy̓ (Katzie), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Qayqayt, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo and Tsawwassen peoples on whose unceded traditional territories our three campuses reside.

 

UNIVERSITY NEWS

The Teaching Support Staff Union (TSSU) has notified the university of plans to escalate strike action on Thursday, September 28, including:

  • An indefinite teaching work stoppage at all campus locations. This means that TSSU members may not hold classes, tutorials or labs, invigilate exams, grade or correspond with students at any campus or online beginning September 28.
  • Rotating daily picket lines at each campus location beginning Thursday at SFU Surrey Campus.

We recognize that strike action can put a strain on relationships between an employer and employees. Our focus remains on the academic success of our students, supporting our outstanding faculty and staff, and nurturing a thriving, world-class research environment. 

Read more about bargaining progress, get information about the strike and read answers to frequently asked questions on the Collective Bargaining website.

NEW RIVERS IN THE NORTH: UNRAVELLING THE RAPID TRANSFORMATION OF ARCTIC LANDSCAPES

Research co-led by SFU and UBC reveals that during the past six decades accelerated global warming in the Canadian High Arctic has driven a profound transformation in permafrost landscapes' river structures. Data applied to predictive physical models can help understand how Arctic river networks will evolve over future decades marked by both warming and intensifying climate variability.

 

FACULTY OF EDUCATION PRESENTS INDIGENOUS EDUCATION WEEK

Recognizing the significance of Indigeneity and decolonization in education is our responsibility. This includes a commitment to respecting Indigenous cultures, embedding their perspectives into the curriculum and fostering genuine relationships. In anticipation of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the faculty is hosting various events and sharing resources, which prompt self-examination regarding our commitment to Reconciliation.

 
 

RESOURCES + OPERATIONAL UPDATES

FALL CONVOCATION HAPPENS NEXT WEEK

Convocation ceremonies are being held at the Burnaby campus on October 5 and 6. More information, including the ceremony schedules, is available on the Convocation website. 

 

Nominations are now open for two significant awards celebrating SFU community members' efforts and dedication to the university and beyond:

Do you know a colleague who embodies SFU values and goes above and beyond to transform the SFU experience? The 2023 Staff Achievement Awards recognize excellence in areas including leadership, innovation and student service. Submission deadline is October 27. 

The CERi awards shine a spotlight on the efforts of SFU faculty members, graduate students and community partners who are driving positive change in our communities. Nominate fellow changemakers in four categories by October 31.

HEATING SERVICE INTERRUPTION - STRAND HALL AND EDUCATION BUILDING

Due to required maintenance on Burnaby campus, hot water and building heating has been temporarily interrupted in Strand Hall and the Education Building until September 29. Drinking water and water for washing will remain operational. Normal operations for heating and hot water are expected to resume by the morning of September 30. Facilities Services is currently working to implement temporary heating solutions in Strand Hall and the Education Building. For questions or to request assistance, please email fm_service_desk@sfu.ca. 

GIBSON ART MUSEUM CONSTRUCTION NOTICE

Starting September 27, asphalt removal and excavation will begin in the former Strand Hall parking lot site for the Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum project. This will result in some noise in the adjacent area until mid-October. Construction work will happen from 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. every day, except during Convocation (October 5-6). Please be alert in this area and follow directional signage.

 

FEATURE EVENTS

September 27 | Hosted by Centre for Restorative Justice

This event will help spread awareness about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action. Attendees will have an opportunity to challenge their current perceptions of Indigenous history in Canada and how they acquired the knowledge they have today.

September 28 | Hosted by Centre for Educational Excellence

Do you want to deliver lectures and presentations that engage and connect with listeners? Attend this workshop to learn how to improve the clarity, richness and expressiveness of your speech.

10TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORANGE SHIRT DAY WITH FOUNDER PHYLLIS WEBSTAD

October 4 | Hosted by Office for Aboriginal Peoples

Phyllis Webstad, who is Northern Secwépemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xget’tem First Nation and an SFU honorary degree recipient, has shared her personal story and facilitated important dialogue for the past decade. Join this special Burnaby campus event to raise awareness of the legacy and ongoing impacts of the Indian Residential School system and honour those impacted.

 

EVENTS AND WEBINARS

Sep 27

Sep 27

Sep 27

Sep 28

Sep 28

Sep 30

Oct 5
 

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