York University

York University has an established history of partnership and collaboration with local, regional and international communities and a broad range of engagement activities. The long-term aspirations of York as an engaged university include the integration of community engagement across all areas of scholarship – teaching, research and service. We envision and define the University’s success in this endeavor by its ability to develop accessible and flexible lifelong learning pathways for a diverse student body; deliver high quality academic programs incorporating innovative approaches to teaching and learning; provide a student experience that equips our students for successful careers and active participation in civic society; and mobilize knowledge, resources (Anchor YorkU) and skills to address complex social problems and support strong, vibrant communities.

  • Passport into Profit

  • York University - TD Community Engagement Centre

  • Invictus Games

Participants and sponsors

Rhonda L. Lenton, President and Vice-Chancellor, York University

Rhonda L. Lenton

President and Vice-Chancellor

Rhonda L. Lenton became York University’s eighth President and Vice-Chancellor on July 1, 2017. A dedicated champion of community engagement and innovative partnerships, Dr. Lenton played an instrumental role in the creation of the York University-TD Community Engagement Centre and in expanding York’s institutional collaborations with other postsecondary education partners. As chair of the President’s Task Force on Community Engagement, she facilitated discussions with a broad range of constituencies, which culminated in a final report that has ensured the centrality of engagement as a defining feature of the University’s planning.

Alice Pitt

Vice Provost Academic 

Dr. Alice Pitt assumed the role of Vice-Provost Academic at York University in December 2012. Alice plays a lead role in planning, implementing and monitoring several key academic initiatives and priorities within the University. Working closely with colleagues in Senate and across Divisions/Faculties, she is responsible for a range of core activities including quality assurance and faculty affairs. She provides senior management leadership to advance the University’s activities related to community engagement, access to post-secondary education, and collaborations with other post-secondary institutions and change management.

Alice Pitt, Vice Provost Academic, York University
Ijade Maxwell Rodrigues, Chief of Government and Community Relations, York University

Ijade Maxwell Rodrigues

Chief of Government and Community Relations 

As Chief of Government and Community Relations, Ijade leads the Government and Community Relations Office, which is responsible for coordinating efforts across the University: in seeking out new funding opportunities, influencing policy issues of strategic importance and developing long-term relationships with key government stakeholders at all three levels of government as well as community stakeholders. Ijade is currently the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Carea Community Health Centre in Durham Region. She has also served on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Presidential Assistants in Higher Education and The Town of Whitby’s Community Connection Board.