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Q&A with Ryerson’s interim provost

Saeed Zolfaghari opens up about stepping into a new role, reflects on his fondest memories and shares his perspectives on the pandemic
By: Daina Astwood-George
October 01, 2020
Saeed Zolfaghari

Interim Provost and Vice-President, Academic Saeed Zolfaghari is staying positive during the pandemic and finding ways to face the challenges it poses.

Three months into the COVID-19 pandemic, when planning for a remote fall semester was at an all-time high, Saeed Zolfaghari dove head first into a new adventure. As Ryerson’s interim provost and vice-president, academic, he was on deck to see the university through some of its most demanding administrative challenges to date.

Three months later he came up for air to speak candidly about the experience so far, how he spends his free time and what we should always focus on when navigating a crisis:

What has been the most surprising aspect of the interim provost role so far?

Though I’m not new to administration at Ryerson, the experience is very different from anything else I’ve done. My past roles were focused on specific portfolios, but the range of topics and issues that land on the provost’s desk is so broad. Your mind has to be very quick to switch from one topic to another – and to really be able to engage – when you’re on to something new every half hour. It’s exciting.

What, in your opinion, is Ryerson’s greatest strength?

I think Ryerson has many strengths, but the focus on equity, diversity and inclusion stands out. When I talk to people from other universities, they see it. When you look at what we've done in the last eight to 10 years, it’s clear that we’re established leaders in this area.

The attention to being bold and innovative is also a strength. I can see that in every aspect of our academic and non-academic activities. People aren’t afraid of trying new things or ideas; they just go for it and that’s what we need.

We’re now all accustomed to studying and working remotely, but what do you think is our biggest challenge for the winter semester? Are we facing anything new?

We’re in uncharted territory; we don’t know what’s ahead of us. What we’ve learned from the pandemic so far is to be responsive and nimble, and to adapt as quickly as we can.

The winter semester is always challenging because there are so many activities happening. There’s more experiential learning. It’s going to be tough if we have to do everything remotely, so we have to find a way to work through this busy time of year together.

What’s your one piece of advice for staying motivated when things get particularly tough?

I need that advice myself too sometimes (chuckles). I try to stay positive because we can learn from our circumstances. In the midst of every crisis, there’s opportunity. We've been fighting COVID for six months, but we’re no longer in crisis-management mode; we’re learning how to adapt to this new normal. I think we just have to focus on the opportunities that are arising as a result.

What accomplishment are you most proud of, personal or professional?

I’ve been at Ryerson for 21 years and the high points of my career are the times I’ve spent with students. Teaching them, helping them with their work, taking part in their extracurricular activities...I’ve found that when you give students your time and effort, they really appreciate it and want to stay connected after they graduate. As academics, that’s what defines us; it’s all about the students. They are the reason we’re here and that longtime connection as they move on is the accomplishment.

What’s your fondest memory of your own university days?

I quit my job when I came to Canada to do my PhD, so I went from working and supporting my family to hitting the reset button and being a student again. That life had its challenges, but it was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed those years...they weren’t easy, but they were really memorable.

What’s the last vacation you took? When it’s safe to do so, where would you like to travel next?

Usually when I go on vacation, I go south – the Caribbean, Mexico, the Dominican – but my last vacation in July was a long weekend in Prince Edward County. I rented a cottage with my family and we really loved it. It’s one area I want to visit again.

Actually, that’s one good thing about the pandemic. In the past, I probably didn’t pay much attention to what’s close to home. I always thought I should travel to other countries, like going back to Greece or seeing Italy, but there are beautiful places that we should explore around here.

Do you play any sports? What’s your favorite to play or watch?

I don’t play sports anymore. (Laughing) I don’t have time for it!! When I was an undergraduate student, I used to go hiking and do karate, but today I’ll just watch sports if I can. I like basketball and hockey, especially during the playoffs. Then I don’t want to miss it.

How do you unwind at the end of a long day?

I spend time with my family. You’d think you’d have more time working from home, but that's not the case. I usually start my day earlier than everyone else and finish close to suppertime. Sometimes my younger daughter makes fun of me. When she sees me for the first time at night, she says, “Good morning, Dad!”

What’s something you’ve always wanted to try, but haven’t yet?

I was going to say parachuting, but I think I’m too old for that now! I do love to travel and see new cultures; meet new people. I want to be able to say someday that I’ve visited every continent, but it’s OK to be patient for the next little while.

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