NEWS & EVENTS

October 10, 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

We are pleased to share that TSSU and SFU have agreed to work with independent mediator, Ken Saunders to help reach a new collective agreement.  

The university is committed to remaining at the bargaining table with TSSU until an agreement can be reached. The mediator is available from Friday, October 13 to Sunday, October 22 and the university has proposed that mediation begin on Friday, October 13.  

We care deeply about our community and recognize the disruptions that this labour action is having on our students, faculty, and staff, as well as TSSU members. Accordingly, SFU has asked TSSU to pause the work stoppage and picket lines while the parties work towards an agreement through mediation. 

The university continues to work to reduce impacts and will continue to keep our community up to date with the latest information about the current bargaining status with TSSU, which you can find on the Collective Bargaining website

 

REFLECTIONS FROM NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

“I believe students are leading the way for reconciliation,” said Phyllis Webstad, at a special event honouring the 10th Anniversary of Orange Shirt Day. This year, the SFU community heard from Indigenous leaders and experts on reconciliation, healing and Indigenizing the path forward. 

 

ORANGE SHIRT DAY FOUNDER RECOGNIZED WITH HONORARY DOCTORATE OF LAW AT SFU

Phyllis Webstad received a standing ovation at the fall convocation on October 5 as she became a proud degree recipient. Webstad continues to build a movement of healing and the acknowledgement that Every Child Matters. She is not only the founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society but also the author of five books. Webstad frequently travels to schools to share her experience with the next generation.

 

DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR APPOINTED CHAIR AND CEO OF B.C. UTILITIES COMMISSION

Resource and environmental management professor Mark Jaccard will oversee the regulation of B.C. energy utility companies such as Fortis B.C., B.C. Hydro and ICBC. The commission works to support the province's climate goals cost-effectively and efficiently. Jaccard is also the director of SFU’s Energy and Materials Research Group which helps governments and organizations explore effective responses to the climate emergency.

 

In June 2023, Edmonds Community School was the inaugural recipient of the Faculty of Education Legacy Gift, which provides books for school libraries. This fall's recipient is Green Timbers Elementary School. The school’s dynamic initiatives foster community engagement and personal development while its proximity to the Green Timbers Forest influences learning, both in and out of the classroom.

 

RESOURCES + OPERATIONAL UPDATES

The recent attack on Israel and the escalating conflict across the region is a matter of grave concern for members of our university community. The situation is particularly distressing for Israeli and Palestinian students, faculty and staff and those with ties to the region. We extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by the violence. We know that the conflict affects many in our university community. If you are affected by these events and are in need of support, please make use of the resources available.

 

FEATURE EVENTS

October 11 | Hosted by Centre of Educational Excellence

In this 30-minute online session, explore pedagogical accommodations for students through examples from three domains: instruction, assessment and environmental accommodations.

FROM RECONNAISSANCE TO REPATRIATION

October 19 | Hosted by Public Square

Attend a lecture by PhD candidate and Sterling Prize recipient Sdahl Ḵ’awaas Lucy Bell. Reflecting upon the work of George MacDonald and Haida artist Bill Reid, Bell will consider the context in which they worked as well as the changing perspectives, actions and priorities of the Haida.

 

EVENTS AND WEBINARS

Oct 11

Oct 12

Oct 13

Oct 13

Oct 18

Oct 20

Oct 20

 

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