School of Social Work

It has been a  whirlwind of activities in the last five months to get myself  grounded as the incoming chair. From meetings to event organizing, from speaking in different classes and being a resource on labour and community issues, I have been made to feel most welcomed.  A big thank you goes to the administration, staff, faculty members and students.

Two new Initiatives:

1.      International Solidarity Forum Series: I have successfully applied for a grant of $25,000 from CAW Social Justice Fund to organize a series of international solidarity forum in the next two years with a specific focus on China.  This will deepen our understanding on this emerging economic super-power and facilitate future dialogue with scholars, union leaders and activists from the Asian region.

2.      Ryerson Social Justice Forum in October, 2011:  I am working with an advisory group that is comprised of staff, faculty members, students, community and labour  leaders to launch the first  Ryerson Social Justice Forum in the week of October 17 to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.  During that week, Ryerson will be the hub of social justice in Toronto. High profile guest lectures and public forum will be organized. Labour and community speakers will be made available to go into different classes.  There will also be information booths, display and other activities to engage students, academics and social justice activists across the city. Stay tuned for more detailed announcement in September.