News & Events

Ryerson remembers Jack Layton

Ryerson President Sheldon Levy says the university community is saddened to learn of the death of Jack Layton, who taught at Ryerson before launching his political career.

"Jack was a true friend to Ryerson. Our deepest condolences go out to Olivia and Jack's family," said President Levy. "His political legacy and commitment to social justice will inspire students for years to come. As a teacher, his passion for knowledge and his enthusiasm for politics had an impact on a generation of Ryerson students."

The Opposition Leader passed away early this morning. He is survived by his wife, MP Olivia Chow, and children Mike and Sarah.

Layton became a Ryerson professor in 1974 and taught politics before being elected to Toronto city council in 1982. He was elected federal NDP leader in 2003 and led the party to unprecedented success in the May 2, 2011 election, earning the party official Opposition status for the first time.

"To lose a party leader of such integrity is a profound loss for Canadian politics," said Colin Mooers, interim chair of Politics and Public Administration at Ryerson. "Equally sad, having led the federal NDP to its first-ever official Opposition status, is that Jack Layton will not be able to take his seat as leader. Jack's loss will be felt acutely by all his former colleagues."

In a visit to campus several years ago, Layton had expressed how much he enjoyed his time at Ryerson.

"Teaching at Ryerson is among the happiest times of my life," said Layton in October 2007 at a campus event to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Ryerson Public Administration program. "I'm a big believer in Ryerson. I love the connection teachers have with students, who are connected to the community. This promotes learning because they learn from the community."

August 22, 2011