Five reasons to attend Congress 2017

We are two months away from hosting Canada’s largest academic gathering at Ryerson: the 86th annual Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences (external link, opens in new window) , May 27- June 2, 2017. The conference theme is “The Next 150: On Indigenous Lands”, which offers an important opportunity to reflect on the nation’s past in order to cultivate and develop positive change and reconciliation. Ryerson is taking a leading role in the advancement of aboriginal education, and we’re pleased the theme resonates with our values for equity, diversity and inclusion. “The Next 150: On Indigenous Lands” also represents Canada’s history, legacy and achievements in the last 150 years.

Ryerson is honoured to host Congress 2017, and we encourage students, faculty and staff to participate in the activities and use this opportunity to meet and engage with new colleagues. Here are five reasons why you should attend:

1. Registration subsidies available for students and faculty
Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible for a full subsidy of the Student Early Bird Registration Fee. Faculty and CUPE1 Instructors who are presenting are eligible for a 50 per cent subsidy of the Early Bird Registration Fee. (Note: association membership fees, association Congress fees, and association banquet or excursion fees are not covered.)

Early bird registration ends March 31, 2017. For reimbursement, please scan and email both your payment and proof of payment and your registration confirmation to congresssubsidy@torontomu.ca no later than July 30, 2017.

2. Network with renowned scholars and peers from across Canada
Congress is the perfect place to connect with your association (external link, opens in new window)  and peers from across Canada. Whether you decide to present, attend or volunteer, you will be representing Ryerson to the broader community and learning from other likeminded scholars in humanities and social sciences. You can also attend the conferences of other associations provided that you register accordingly (external link, opens in new window) . 

3. Participate in exciting events, lectures and workshops
In addition to the 70 associations meeting at Congress, a large number of events are made available to registered attendees and the general public. Learn more about the Big Thinking lecture (external link, opens in new window)  series.

4. Ryerson programming
Ryerson has planned an extensive schedule of programming during Congress – from walking tours to panel discussions, cultural exhibits and showcases. Many of the events are open to the general public, and will feature distinguished visiting professors, thought leaders as well as introductions to unique Ryerson initiatives including zone learning (opens in new window)  and the Ryerson Urban Farm (external link, opens in new window) . Discover Ryerson programming (external link, opens in new window) .

5. Congress Expo – Canada’s largest academic tradeshow
Visit the Congress Expo (external link, opens in new window) , May 27- June 2 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. This week-long event will feature thought-provoking discussions, career presentations, book launches and signings and more than 50 exhibitors – all under one roof. All attendees have access to the Expo at no additional charge.

Chris Evans
Interim Provost and Vice-President, Academic