Dr. Judy Finlay, MSW, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, School of Child and Youth Care
Tel: 416-979-5000, ext. 4809  E-mail: jfinlay@ryerson.ca

Dr. Judy Finlay teaches in the fields of interpersonal communication, group work, advanced therapeutic interventions and child advocacy.

Judy is the Co-chair of Mamow Sha-way-gi-kay-win: the North South Partnership for Children. This Partnership represents the coming together of First Nation Chiefs, Elders, youth and community members living in 30 remote communities in north western Ontario and individuals and voluntary organizations based in southern Ontario. In collaboration with the Partnership, Judy leads a research project that looks at enhancing the social determinants of health through a partnership-based approach to child, family and community wellness in these First Nations.

Judy is also involved in international projects with the Centre for Development and Peace Education in Sierra Leone. These projects are related to skill development and capacity building for child soldiers.

Judy was Ontario's Child Advocate from 1991-2007.  Her Office ensured the provision of a range of advocacy services - a crucial safeguard built into provincial legislation. Involved nationally and internationally as an Advocate for children and youth, Judy is a champion of children's issues and an outspoken supporter of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Judy has worked for more than three decades in the areas of child welfare and children's mental health.