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A Message from Schulich Dean Detlev Zwick: Observing the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
Dear Members of the Schulich Community,
Next Monday, we come together as residents and newcomers to Canada to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It’s a moment for us to reflect on the painful history of the residential school system, which tragically separated Indigenous children from their families and communities. It’s also an important time to honour the incredible strength, resilience, and dignity of the survivors, along with the families and communities who continue to feel the impact of this legacy.
At Schulich, we’re marking this day with a series of meaningful events at the McEwen Building. The day begins with a special lecture on Indigenous entrepreneurship, hosted by Professor Irene Henriques. She will share insights from her latest research paper, “Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurship: A Pathway to Economic Reconciliation,” which participants will find both thought-provoking and inspiring.
After the lecture, we’ll gather for some tea, Indigenous pudding, and Bannock, a traditional Indigenous bread. Later in the afternoon, we’ll have the privilege of hearing from Kristin Murray, Schulich’s Executive-in-Residence on Indigenous Initiatives and a proud member of the Chapleau Cree First Nation. Kristin will lead a discussion on the significance of the 7 Grandfather Teachings and the Medicine Wheel in Indigenous culture, which promises to be a rewarding learning experience.
Later in the afternoon, I invite you to visit Tuchner’s Student Lounge to view a new Indigenous art mural created by York University student Zachary Scola-Allison. Zachary’s artwork blends traditional Anishinaabe tribal designs and motifs with modern abstract shapes, offering a unique and powerful visual representation of his heritage and worldview.
To be part of these events, please register here, and if you’re interested in what’s happening across York University, click here to learn more.
As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage everyone in our Schulich community to wear an orange shirt in solidarity. You can purchase an official 2024 “Every Child Matters” Orange T-shirt at the Schulich Trading Store this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at a cost of $18 or at the York University Bookstore in York Lanes. All proceeds from the sales will support the Orange Shirt Society, which is dedicated to raising awareness about the impacts of the residential school system.
Beyond these events, Schulich continues to deepen our engagement with Indigenous communities. This fall, we launched two pilot projects for the Strategy Field Study – Indigenous Business Option in partnership with Indigenous Works, an organization dedicated to increasing Indigenous participation in the Canadian economy.
In another exciting first, Schulich ExecEd has partnered with the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) to launch a flagship Mini-MBA for Indigenous Leaders to their network of over 700 Indigenous entrepreneurs and corporate leaders. This new partnership was announced at CCAB’s 40th Anniversary event held earlier this year and will help support economic empowerment and leadership development in Indigenous communities across Canada.
These initiatives, along with our planned events for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, reflect Schulich’s ongoing commitment to fostering deeper understanding and genuine reconciliation. I hope you’ll join us in these efforts, and I look forward to seeing you on September 30.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick, PhD
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of Business -
Schulich Dean Detlev Zwick
Past Messages
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Dear Members of the Schulich Community,
June is the time of year when we celebrate a number of annual events, including Convocation, National Indigenous History Month and Pride Month – events that bring us together to recognize and applaud the successes and accomplishments of the people who make up our diverse community.
As the academic year draws to a close, I’d like to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and support of our faculty and staff in making an outstanding contribution to our student experience.
I also want to congratulate all Schulich students on another successful year. We hope you found your studies challenging and rewarding!
Also, please join me in a big round of applause for this year’s graduating cohort. We look forward to celebrating your achievements at Convocation on June 21st, where we expect over 900 students to graduate. Be sure to stop by the Party Patio after the ceremony to see our very own ‘Schulich House Band’ perform!
Schulich Spring Convocation and Honorary Degree Recipient
Convocation is much more than a ceremonial event – it’s an important milestone in the educational journey of our students and the crowning moment of the school year, the culmination of teaching and shared learning in an environment where lifelong bonds and friendships are often formed.
Students always tell me that the presence of their instructors at Convocation sharing in the celebration of this special occasion means a great deal to them, particularly because of the impact we’ve had on them during their time at Schulich.
To attend this special occasion, Schulich tenure-stream faculty, adjunct faculty and part-time instructors please click here to register and enter event code S24. For more details, please visit the York Convocation website.
During our convocation ceremony, York University will confer an honorary degree on Carol Hansell (MBA/JD ’86) in recognition of her contributions to community building, advocacy for social justice, and philanthropy.
A graduate of the joint Schulich and Osgoode MBA/JD program, Carole is an internationally recognized expert in corporate governance who has been a highly influential figure in shaping public policy for more than three decades. She is the founder of the Hansell McLaughlin Advisory Group, which provides expert advice on complex legal and business issues in law and governance as well as government and regulatory affairs. She is also Chair of the Dean’s Global Advisory Council at Schulich.
We’re proud and excited to see one of Schulich’s most accomplished alumni and a shining role model for our students honoured at this year’s Convocation!
National Indigenous History Month
In addition to Convocation, we’re also celebrating National Indigenous History Month – a time to recognize our country’s Indigenous Peoples and their many achievements and contributions, as well as learn about their cultures and traditions.
Here at Schulich, one way we’re doing this is by Indigenizing our campus. I’ll share more details about these activities next week when we acknowledge and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st.
I also encourage you to read this message from York University President Rhonda Lenton to learn more about the activities taking place at York in connection with National Indigenous History Month.
Pride Month
Every June, we also celebrate Pride Month. The Schulich Pride Alliance, a student-run organization that fosters an inclusive and supportive community for LGBTQ+ students and allies, kicked off Pride Month by hosting SPECTRUM, the group’s annual signature event and flagship conference designed to give students from all over Canada the opportunity to network and raise awareness.
Earlier this semester, the Schulich Pride Alliance also hosted Eclipse, an event focused on fostering discussion surrounding the challenges that marginalized groups face as well as intersectionality and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the workplace.
I encourage you to visit the Pride website to find out more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at York and their many contributions and accomplishments. I also invite you to read this message from President Lenton to discover what we are doing to make our University a more inclusive community, as well as the many events taking place on our campus connected to Pride Month.
Please join me in celebrating these events and I look forward to seeing you next week at Spring Convocation!
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
Today, the worldwide Schulich community proudly celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day, which is based on the uplifting theme, “Inspire Inclusion.”
This annual day of celebration provides an opportunity to salute the many accomplishments and contributions women have made – here in our own community and throughout the world – while also renewing our commitment to fostering greater equality and creating more inclusive workplaces.
The Schulich community is recognizing and celebrating the day in a number of ways. Our School’s Women in Leadership (WIL) club, together with Schulich’s MBA Forté Fellow Ambassadors, organized a promotional photo in the CIBC Marketplace earlier this week involving members of the Schulich community. The photo, based on the theme, #IWD 2024 Celebrating Schulich Women, is being shared with members of the Schulich community around the world.
Schulich’s Women in Leadership club and MBA Forté Fellow Ambassadors organized a promotional photo in the CIBC Marketplace with members of the Schulich community Schulich’s graduate Business Technology Club is observing International Women’s Day by hosting an online networking event on Thursday, March 14 titled, “Women in Tech: Inspiring Inclusion and Empowerment”. The event will feature leading female tech professionals from companies such as RBC, MetaData and Cineplex Digital Media to share their insights, experiences, and strategies for success. Click here to register for the event.
The United Nations noted that one of the main hurdles in achieving greater gender equality is a lack of investment and financial resources. For us here at Schulich, that means empowering female students by ensuring the adequate financial support necessary to pursue their educational and career goals. Last semester, for example, we launched the Anna Maria Ewing (MBA ’88) Women in Tech Leadership Award, thanks to the generosity of Schulich alumna Anna Maria Ewing, former CIO of Nasdaq. Tech MBA student Asma Hassan was named the inaugural recipient of the award. The Executive MBA Women Leadership and Impact Award, established last year, is presented annually to incoming female students enrolled in the Kellogg-Schulich EMBA program. The first recipients of the award, announced in January, are Liyi Chen, Mischka Crichton, Bojana Prorok and Theresa Smart. These scholarships and awards are just some of the ways we’re working to create greater opportunities for women studying at Schulich.
Lastly, I’d like to share with you some inspiring words from a number of Schulich alumnae. These testimonials were compiled by our Advancement and Alumni Engagement office as a way to share motivational messages from Schulich graduates who have gone on to achieve great success in their chosen fields. Click here to read their powerful words of encouragement and insights.
As we recognize International Women’s Day today, please join me in paying tribute to the women who enrich our School, contribute to our success, and strengthen our community.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
The beginning of February marks the annual start of Black History Month. This year’s theme is “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; A Future to Build”, and it gives the Schulich community an opportunity to recognize and applaud the many noteworthy accomplishments and contributions that Black Canadians have made to our country over many centuries.
As part of Black History Month celebrations and events here at our school, the Schulich Black Students Association (SBSA) will host a conference and networking event on Friday, February 9. Sponsored by KPMG, the Afropolitan Case Competition & Conference will give students the opportunity to learn about Black history as well as take part in a case competition with prizes totalling $2,000. Other highlights include keynote speakers, workshops, a panel discussion and the opportunity to network with industry professionals from companies such as KPMG, EY, MNP, Mackenzie Investments, CPA Ontario, the Onyx Initiative, RSM and others. The event will take place at KPMG’s Toronto office at the Bay Adelaide Centre on 333 Bay Street. All students, regardless of background, are welcome to register for this event and can do so here. The event is $20 for SBSA members and $30 for non-members and registration closes on Wednesday, February 7 at noon. A big thanks to KPMG and to Ramla Elmi and Yousif Arbab, Co-Presidents of the SBSA, as well as all the members of their team who have worked together to organize this outstanding event.
Schulich’s Jean-Jacques Rousseau (MBA ’06), an instructor and Special Advisor to the Office of the Dean on Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) initiatives, will lead a workshop session at this year’s “Know Your Worth” conference. The annual forum is organized by the Osgoode Hall Law School chapter of the Black Law Students’ Association, which represents the Black community at Osgoode and strives to foster an equitable and engaging environment for Black law students. The conference will welcome Black high school students from the Dufferin-Peel and Toronto school boards to take part in capacity-building workshops, community building and a chance to hear inspiring speakers and leaders like Jean-Jacques.
Black History Month gives us a chance to not only celebrate the achievements of Black Canadians but also to reflect on what we’re doing as a community to create a more diverse and inclusive environment. Here at Schulich, I’m pleased to announce that our School will host the fourth annual Schulich Business Excellence Academy (SBEA) this summer thanks to a generous donation from Scotiabank, the lead sponsor. The business education and mentorship program for Black and under-represented Ontario high school students has graduated over 150 students since its start. The program is designed to help students gain business knowledge, develop skills and prepare for post-secondary education opportunities.
I’m also delighted to announce that the Canaccord Genuity Diversity Award of Excellence has been renewed. Established in 2021, the scholarship is designed to create economic opportunities in the Black community and will be awarded annually to two Black students at Schulich who demonstrate academic excellence and an interest in pursuing a career in capital markets or wealth management. The recipients must also demonstrate exemplary leadership and interpersonal skills, as well as strong experience in community building. In addition to receiving a scholarship valued at $10,000, award recipients will also have the option to be mentored by a Canaccord Genuity employee throughout the year and an opportunity to interview for a summer internship. Please join me in thanking Canaccord Genuity Corp., one of Canada’s leading financial services firms, for their commitment and support!
I invite and encourage the entire Schulich community to join me this month in recognizing the enduring contributions of Black Canadians, who continue to enrich our community and our country.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
Yesterday, York University officially launched Pride Month celebrations with the Pride 2023 Opening Ceremony here on campus – one of a series of events taking place at the university to mark Pride Month.
I encourage you to visit the Pride website to find out more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at York and their many contributions and accomplishments. I also invite you to read this message to discover what we are doing to make our University a more inclusive community, as well as the many events taking place on our campus in connection with Pride Month.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
As communities and individuals across Canada recognize National Indigenous History Month this June, we are invited to honour the legacy of Canada’s Indigenous peoples and their contributions to our country and culture.
I encourage you to read this message about the progress the university community is making in regard to reconciliation and decolonization, as well as to learn more about the many events taking place on our campus in connection with National Indigenous History Month that are intended to promote dialogue and create greater awareness.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
The Schulich community joins people around the world today in showing our support for this year’s International Women’s Day.
The day of celebration provides an opportunity to acknowledge and applaud the many achievements that women have made while also renewing our commitment to bring about women’s equality. It’s also an occasion for all of us to recognize the invaluable role that women play at Schulich.
Our School’s Women in Leadership (WIL) club is raising awareness through a number of events today, including a Social Media Challenge. The event is based on “Embrace Equity” – the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day – and involves challenges such as sharing stories about an inspiring woman in your life or listing your favourite women-run small businesses. The WIL club will also set up a table at Schulich today promoting International Women’s Day and encourages fellow students, faculty and staff to drop by and take part in various activities.
International Women’s Day is also a time for us to redouble our efforts to promote gender equality and empower female students by providing the adequate resources and support needed to advance their educational goals. Earlier this year, the Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA Program created “The Executive MBA Women Leadership and Impact Award”, which will be presented annually to five incoming female students enrolled in the number-one ranked Kellogg-Schulich EMBA program. The first recipients of the award, which is worth $10,000, will be announced in January 2024.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, please join me in saluting the women who have contributed so much to our School’s success and to the strength and vitality of the Schulich community.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
Every February, communities and organizations around the country observe Black History Month. This annual event offers our School the opportunity to recognize and salute the many contributions that Black Canadians have made to our country and to the Schulich community.
Here at Schulich, the Black Graduate Business Network is once again hosting a series of speaker events during Black History Month around the theme, “Celebrating Black Excellence”. I invite you to attend these virtual and in-person events, which are designed to inspire and engage.
I also encourage you to read this important message from York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton and Sheila Cote-Meek, Vice President, Equity, People & Culture. The message includes an update on how York is addressing anti-Black racism and creating more inclusive and equitable spaces for Black community members.
During the month ahead, please join me and the entire Schulich and York community in honouring the legacy of Black Canadians – a legacy that has strengthened and enriched our society.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessDear Members of the Schulich Community,
Our School stands with many Canadians and others around the world in condemning the ongoing acts of violence against women and student protestors in Iran. Many of these brutal attacks and arrests have occurred on university campuses.
These incidents have been the source of a great deal of anxiety and distress for members of our community – particularly our students – who have ties to Iran. I want to let you know that we will do whatever we can to support you.
You should also be aware that York University has a number of resources available to support our students, staff and faculty. I encourage you to read this important message from York University President Rhonda Lenton for more details about we can provide assistance and support.
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of BusinessThis coming Saturday, September 30, Canadians will observe the third annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day when we recognize the tragic legacy of the residential school system in Canada, which separated Indigenous children from their families and communities. It is also a day when we honour the dignity and strength of survivors, family members and communities affected by residential school policies that existed in Canada for more than a century.
Our recognition of this day – as residents of Canada and as members of the Schulich community – is another important step in our ongoing journey toward greater awareness and meaningful reconciliation.
As a result, we will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Schulich in several ways. On Wednesday, September 27, we will hold a workshop and traditional Indigenous smudging ceremony in the McEwen building beginning at 11:30 am. A smudging ceremony uses smoke from burning sacred plants to cleanse negative thoughts and feelings and is an important part of Indigenous culture. We’ll also serve tea and bannock, a traditional Indigenous pan-fried bread, at the event.
Kristin Murray, Schulich’s Executive-in-Residence on Indigenous Initiatives and a member of the Chapleau Cree First Nation, will lead the smudging ceremony and will discuss the meaning and significance of this Indigenous tradition.
Fittingly, the ceremony will take place near the Busy Beaver sculpture in the courtyard. In Indigenous culture, the beaver is a symbol of perseverance, adaptability, resourcefulness and hard work – valuable attributes in both business and life.
In addition to the smudging ceremony, we encourage all faculty, staff and students to wear an orange shirt throughout the week leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Orange Shirt Day was started by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad and has since become a national grassroots movement to commemorate the residential school experience, honour survivors and remember those children who were never able to return home and reunite with their families.
We’ve made arrangements for York University Bookstore to sell Official 2023 “Every Child Matters” orange T-Shirts on Tuesday, September 26 at the Schulich Trading Store on the first floor across from the Schulich Market Cafe. The shirts will be sold for $18 and all profits from the sale of our Orange Shirts will go to support the Orange Shirt Society. Orange shirts can also be purchased at the York University Bookstore in York Lanes every day of the week.
I also encourage members of the Schulich community to learn more about activities taking place at York University, including film screenings and a ceremonial fire at Osgoode Hall Law School on Thursday, September 28.
Our recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important part of our efforts to make our community more inclusive and welcoming.
I hope to see you at the smudging ceremony this Wednesday!
Sincerely,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
Schulich School of Business