FGS | Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS)

Council Meeting Agenda November 5, 2026

mmschiff — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 14:50:44 +0000

Agenda
Thursday, November 5, 2026
2:30 p.m.
Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building

This meeting will be held online

1. Welcome and Chair’s Remarks

Chair Arash Habibi Lashkari

2. Minutes (Previous Meeting, October 1, 2026) (.docx)

3. Business Arising from the Minutes

4. Dean's Remarks

5. xxxUpdate to Faculty Regulations:

Approved by Academic Planning & Policy Committee on September 9, 2026
For approval
Associate Director, Graduate Academic Affairs Wes Moir
Motion (.docx)

6. xxxUpdate to Faculty Regulations: Transfers Across Program Levels

Approved by Academic Planning & Policy Committee on September 9, 2026
For approval
Associate Director, Graduate Academic Affairs Wes Moir
Motion (.docx)

7. Reports from Faculty of Graduate Studies' Representatives to Senate Committees

Cheryl van Daalen-Smith, Senate Academic Standards, Curriculum & Pedagogy Committee
Anne MacLennan, Senate Academic Policy, Planning and Research Committee
Marina Morrow, Senate Executive Committee
Desirée de Jesús, Senate Executive Committee's Honorary Degrees & Ceremonials Sub-committee

8. Senate Synopses

For information

Summaries of the Senate meetings of September 24 and October 22, 2026 (URL/pdf)

9. Other Business

Preparing Future Biotech Professionals Through Hands-On Learning

vinish — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 19:57:51 +0000

We recently delivered our AMI-LITE liquid handling system to a lab at , giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with automated liquid handling.

By working with the AMI-LITE, students can explore how automated workflows are developed, understand the importance of precision and reproducibility, and build practical skills relevant to research and biotechnology careers.

A special thank you to Professor and for helping coordinate a smooth delivery and welcoming our team!

We’re excited to support the next generation of scientists as they connect classroom knowledge with laboratory practice.

LinkedIn post by Aumintec Inc.

^{Photo of students and the Aumintec team at 91��ɫ's Markham Campus}

Biotechnology Students Building Skills Through Experiential Learning

vinish — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:44:01 +0000

Just one month into their programs, biotechnology students at 91��ɫ's Markham Campus are already building the skills the sector needs.

Our Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (GDB) students will complete an intensive eight-month program that combines coursework and experiential learning. Master of Biotechnology Management (MBM) students pair scientific expertise with business and management training, then put it to work through industry internships with partner organizations.

Across both programs, students learn by doing through hands-on experience and capstone projects that help them develop an entrepreneurial mindset for a fast-moving field.

Looking to host an MBM intern, hire emerging biotech talent or propose a capstone project? Let’s connect.

LinkedIn post by 91��ɫ Markham Campus.

_{Photo of Graduate Biotechnology students}

Alumni

vinish — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 19:08:57 +0000

Explore the accomplishments, stories, research, and leadership of 91��ɫ's graduate alumni community. Connect with fellow graduates and discover how 91��ɫ alumni are making an impact around the world.

FGS Alumni at 91��ɫU

Top 30 Alumni Under 30

Panels & Testimonials

Our Alumni’s Graduate Research

Grad Studies Alumni

vinish — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:32:17 +0000

Quick Links

Read the Alumni Newsletter
Discover Alumni Events
Explore Discounts and Services
Update Your Contact Information
Celebrating 60 Years of FGS

OUR GRADUATE COMMUNITY

PhDs

MAs

MESes

MSWs

MScs

MEds

MFAs

MFAcs

MScNs

MPPALs

MHRMs

MPIAs, MCIs

MAScs

MDEMs

MLCEs, MDeses, MFScs

Graduate Employment

92% of 91��ɫ grads employed within 2 years of graduation

Employer Satisfaction

90% employer satisfaction rate (GTA employers)

TESTIMONIALS

Social and Political Thought offers a tremendous amount of freedom in the formulation of a unique critical project, regardless of disciplinary boundaries. As a result, researchers can put the substance first, discovering methods and frameworks as they emerge from their projects, rather than the other way around.

— James Beirne, PhD '23, Social & Political Thought
I would not be where I am now without the MCI. Obviously, every work environment has its own particularities and you learn a lot on the job. However, the MCI has provided me with a solid foundation in interpreting as well as the flexibility to allow me to adapt very quickly wherever I go.

— Fannie St-Pierre-Tanguay, MCI '14, Conference Interpreting
My placement inspired me to pursue community mental health social work. I now work as a case manager in mental health.

— Madelaine Ritts, MSW '17, Social Work
My graduate experience in the Socio-Legal Studies program has been a rigorous academic journey which has deepened my understanding of the relationship between law, criminology, society, and justice. Earning a Master of Arts at 91��ɫ entails participation in an environment that ensures independent growth and a collaborative experience with fellow scholars and supportive classmates.

— Natalie De Luca, MA '22, Socio-Legal Studies
What’s great about Glendon MCI is the spirit of mutual respect and collegiality – you can always count on your instructors and classmates for advice and referrals, and that greatly expands your professional horizons. In my experience, with a Russian-English language combination, you can find work in Canada in conference, legal, healthcare and community settings. But you don’t have to limit yourself geographically – remote interpreting is steadily on the rise, for example, so you can end up working with a client overseas without leaving your home!

— Ania Bogdanova, MCI '16, Conference Interpreting
The Critical Disability Studies (CDS) program gave me the knowledge and experience to strategically work toward addressing some of the most challenging social issues facing people with disabilities and other marginalized and oppressed social groups.

— Alexis Buettgen, PhD '16, Critical Disability Studies
I examined the power dynamics between international
development programs and local people, and whether
the incorporation of the rituals of traditional healers could
promote community health and well-being. I presented my
research in an invited seminar along with traditional healers
at UFS.

— Yumiko Kiuchi, MA '19, Development Studies
I truly appreciate the opportunity to be a graduate of the first MScMP cohort. I’m currently working as Senior Business Analyst at an Ontario public corporation and all the analytical tools that I’ve learnt from the MScMP helped me increase efficiencies in work.

— Xiaolu (Fiona) Peng, MScMP '22, Management Practice
The history program at 91��ɫ has some of the best and most knowledgeable faculty in Ontario. If you're looking towards advancing your professional career, 91��ɫ's history program is a perfect choice.

— Daniel Chibani, MA '23, History
I completed my PhD and Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Graduate Program in Health at 91��ɫ and both experiences were incredibly rewarding. I was privileged to work with leading Health Equity scholars and participate in their research. My colleagues came from a variety of disciplines, which made for interesting classroom discussions and some lasting friendships. The education and training I received at 91��ɫ was exceptional and prepared me well for my academic career.

— Julia Brassolotto, PhD '15, Health
Since graduating from the MScMP program I have joined the Canadian workforce as Assistant Vice President for Trade Finance at Citibank. I support Supply Chain clients throughout North America with their Capital and Finance needs. The knowledge I acquired from the Supply Chain Management stream in the MScMP program, helped me to land my job and to better understand client needs and expectations.

— Graham Galeon, MScMP '22, Management Practice
The training I received at the Glendon MCI provided me with a solid foundation for my performance. Equipped with the skills I learned and the professional tips I received from my professors, I have been at the top of my game. In the MCI, I was trained to interpret in a variety of contexts and settings that mimicked the real market. I believe what I learned at Glendon will always support me in my career as an interpreter.

— Ahmed Al-Tameemi, MCI '16, Conference Interpreting
After graduating from the MScMP program I was accepted to pursue a PhD in Administration. I chose a career in academics, specializing in Marketing (Consumer Behaviour) and I’ve applied a lot of what I learnt from the MScMP program, I owe the entire MScMP program team a huge thank you!

— Tima Abboud, MScMP '22, Management Practice

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS

91��ɫ alumni recognized for research on refugee leadership, health equity

Two Faculty of Graduate Studies alumni have earned national recognition from Canadian scholarly associations for research addressing equity and opportunity.

Learn More
Order of Canada honours seven 91��ɫ U community members

Seven members of the 91��ɫ community have been appointed to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, by the Governor General of Canada.

Learn More
Order of Ontario honours 91��ɫ U-affiliated community members

Three members of the 91��ɫ community are among 30 individuals appointed to the Order of Ontario on Feb. 17 by Edith Dumont, lieutenant-governor of Ontario.

Learn More
AMPD Music alumnus wins Grammy Award

91��ɫ alumnus Justin Gray (MA ’14) of School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design,has won the 2026 Grammy Award for Best Immersive Audio Album for his project IMMERSED.
TIFF positions 91��ɫ U filmmakers among Canada’s best

Each year, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) selects Canada’s Top Ten, a list celebrating the best in recent Canadian cinema, from feature-length films to shorts.

Learn More
Order of Canada honours nine 91��ɫ community members

Nine members of the 91��ɫ community have been appointed to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, recognizing outstanding achievement.

Learn More
91��ɫ-Ghana partnership celebrates its first PhD graduate in nursing

Milipaak Japiong became the first doctoral graduate of 91��ɫ’s ASCEND partnership, marking an important milestone for the international collaboration.

Learn More
Canada’s most powerful women include 91��ɫ alumni, former faculty

91��ɫ alumni are among this year’s winners of WXN’s Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Awards, recognized for leadership across diverse fields.

Learn More
91��ɫ grads earn national recognition for excellence in Canadian studies

Two recent 91��ɫ LA&PS graduates have received top honours from the Canadian Studies Network for innovative work exploring identity and experience in Canada.

Learn More
Triumph of Discovery: 91��ɫ Alumni Shine with Prestigious 2024 Polanyi Prizes

Two 91��ɫ alumni have earned the prestigious John Charles Polanyi Prizes for 2024, celebrating outstanding contributions to research excellence and innovation.

Learn More
91��ɫ U alumni excel at Canadian Screen Awards

91��ɫ alumni from AMPD, Osgoode, Schulich, and Education left their mark on the Canadian entertainment industry this year, capturing top awards at the Canadian Screen Awards.

Learn More
91��ɫ U alumna makes history as Ghana’s first female vice-president

91��ɫ alumna Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang achieved a historic milestone as Ghana’s first female vice-president, reflecting decades of leadership and service.

Learn More

FGS 60TH ANNIVERSARY AWARD

This established award will be given to 6 part-time BIPOC scholars who are making excellent academic progress and demonstrate financial need. This award represents FGS’ commitment to both DEDI and Access for All, in acknowledgement of the barriers facing many scholars who balance advanced study with other commitments and caregiving.

Share Your Story

Have exciting news to share? Tell us what you’ve accomplished since graduating!

Alumni Panels & Testimonials

vinish — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:31:31 +0000

Hear directly from our graduates! Dive into alumni panels packed with expert advice and enjoy personal video stories that highlight their unique paths and achievements. Discover insights into career growth, research breakthroughs, and real-world experiences that shape our community. Whether you’re a prospective student or a proud alum, these stories will inspire and connect you.

Panel Discussions Hosted by FGS

Choose Grad 91��ɫ - Learning about Grad School from Our Alumni

Panelists:

Blessing O. (MEd '25, Education)
Desmond A. (MES '25, Environmental Studies)
Jenny E. (PhD '10, History)

Learning about Grad School from Our Alumni

Panelists:

Sehrish Malik (MA, Gender Studies; PhD, Humanities)
Ariella Markus (MA, Interdisciplinary Studies)
Moein Shafi (MSc, Computer Science)

Choose Grad 91��ɫ '24: Learning about Grad School from Our Alumni

Panelists:

Alexandros Balasis (MA Alumni & PhD candidate - History)
Ariella Markus (MA Alumni - Interdisciplinary Studies)
Ramesh Venkatesa Perumal (PhD Alumni - Nursing)

Level Up Grad Alumni Studies Panel: How grad school fuelled my career

Panelists:

Masaõ Ashtine (MSc '13)
Osman Naqvi (MMgt '17)
Sonia Sheechoria (BHRM '15, MLCE '19)

Choose Grad 91��ɫ '22 - Research Career Satisfaction Outside of Academe

Panelists:

Monique Abbott (MSW '17, Social Work)
Naz Chaudary (PhD '04, Biology)
Dylann McLean (MA '09, PhD '15, Geography)

Alumni Journeys & Success Stories

MFA’22 alumna Michelle Peraza explores her research and exhibition in conversation with AMPD Professor Tammer El-Sheikh.

Interdisciplinary Studies alumna Muna Ali explores identity and belonging among young Somali women through research.

MFA’21 alumna Hannah Doucet creates artwork exploring fantasy, illness, and the body through photography.

Interdisciplinary Studies alumna Keith Francis explores architectural design and dementia care through research on built environments.

MCI alumna Malikah Alibhai shares her transition from graduate studies to a successful interpreting career in Europe.

Interdisciplinary Studies alumnus Alejandro Mayoral creates digital tools that support Indigenous communities and culture.

Health Policy & Equity PhD alumna Kaitlin (Katie) Di Pierdomenico researches person-centered approaches to mental health care.

Our Top 30 Alumni Under 30

vinish — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:29:25 +0000

In a world defined by rapid change and global challenges, the call for bold, compassionate, and visionary leadership has never been louder. At 91��ɫ, we are proud to see our alumni stepping up to meet that call—not someday, but now.

91��ɫ’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program celebrates exceptional young leaders who are using their talents, education, and passion to make meaningful change. Launched in 2021, the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program continues to spotlight the energy and excellence of young alumni who apply their 91��ɫ education to transform lives, communities, and the world at large.

2026

Chimira Nicole Andres, PhD '25

Planetary geophysicist and glacial geomorphologist

Wasi Syed Babar, MPPAL '25

Senior Program Manager, City of Toronto

Deepana Devadas, LLM '25

Lawyer, Marketing Strategist and Community Builder

Tolu Faromika, MA '25

Podcast Host and Founder, The BrainCore Podcast

Merve Kolcak, MES '21

Urban Planner and Project Manager, The Biglieri Group

Esther Martinez, MEd '24

Founder, Raíces;
Community Educator

Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani, MSc '25

Clinical Research Assistant

Chinoye Sunny, MES '21

Development Planner, City of Richmond Hill

Winnie Yu, MSc '20

Founding Partner, FinMed

2025

Jocelyn Cadieux, MES '20

Policy planner and community builder

Lauren Castelino, MES '24

Environmentalist and entrepreneur

Blessing Owusu, MEd '24

Educator and children's book author

Aniket Prabhudesai, MASc '22

Space robotics and engineering expert

Pankaj Puar, MSc '21

Health Researcher,
Educator and Mentor

Nathan Yiu, MDEM '21

Disaster management expert and community leader

2024

Khadeja Elsibai, MPPAL '22

Public servant and community builder

John Lau, MES '19

Sustainability Leader and Senior Policy Advisor

email

Sara Pishdadian, MA '18, PhD '23

Clinician and health equity advocate

Sam Rockbrune, MA '19

Community leader and social justice advocate

2023

Bianca Bondi, MA '19

Clinical researcher and child development advocate

Victoria Canale, MSW '21

Public health researcher and social worker

Lucas DeLuca, MA '19

Accessibility strategist and advocate

Philip Geller, MFA '22

Theatre artist and
storyteller

Ying Gu, MES '19

Sustainability advisor and climate change advocate

Shalini Iyer, MSc '22

Scientist, STEM educator and EDI advocate

Kate Haiyun Mossop, MLCE '21

Community Builder, Director of Community Programs

Lela Pacitti-Sander, MES '17

Community planner and youth worker

Raghavender Sahdev, MSC '18

Entrepreneur

Korina Thomas-Reynolds, MEd '20

Educator and entrepreneur

2022

Suzanna Alsayed, MDEM '20

Tech entrepreneur

Elijah Bawuah, MES '21

EDI advocate and mentor

Jonathan Clodman, MEd '20

Educator; Health advocate

Bri Darboh, MA '18

Health equity advocate

Jason Robinson, MES '19

Environmental and EDI advocate

2021

Miranda Baksh, MES '19

CEO and Founder, Community Climate Council

Nicole Doray, MES '19

Manager, Social Impact;
Senior Researcher

Mikhaela Gray-Beerman, MED '18

Anti-trafficking advocate, researcher and educator

Council Meeting Agenda October 1, 2026

mmschiff — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 19:39:19 +0000

Agenda
Thursday, October 1, 2026
2:30 p.m.
Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building

This meeting will be held in person.

1. Welcome and Chair’s Remarks

Chair Arash Habibi Lashkari

2. Orientation

Associate Dean Academic Cheryl van Daalen-Smith

3. Minutes (Previous Meeting, June 4, 2026) (.docx)

4. Business Arising from the Minutes

Report on Academic Planning & Policy Committee acting under summer authority for Faculty Council

For information

Changes to Appointment and Reappointment Criteria and Procedures
Graduate Program in Psychology
Approved June 10, 2026

Update to Faculty Regulations: Petitions – Extension of Program Time Limit
Motion (.docx)
Approved July 8, 2026

5. Dean's Remarks

Dean Alice MacLachlan

6. Update to Faculty Regulations: Transfers Across Program Levels

Approved by Academic Planning & Policy Committee on September 9, 2026
For approval
Associate Director, Graduate Academic Affairs Wes Moir
Motion (.docx)

7. Update to Faculty Regulations: English Language Proficiency

Approved by Academic Planning & Policy Committee on September 9, 2026
For approval
Associate Director, Graduate Academic Affairs Wes Moir
Motion (.docx)

8. Reports from Faculty of Graduate Studies' Representatives to Senate Committees

9. Senate Synopses

For information

Summaries of the Senate meetings of May 28 and June 25, 2026 (URL/pdf)

10. Other Business

91��ɫU Biotechnology Students Featured in Astellas Pharma's National Intern Day Celebration

vinish — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 13:48:12 +0000

Astellas Pharma recently celebrated National Intern Day by recognizing interns who have brought fresh perspectives, curiosity, and enthusiasm to the organization.

91��ɫ Biotechnology students Loveleen Datta and Marisol John were featured as part of the celebration. Reflecting on their internship experiences, Loveleen shared how stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing new opportunities contributed to her personal and professional growth. Marisol highlighted the value of hands-on learning and gaining a deeper understanding of the different functions and responsibilities that contribute to the industry.

LinkedIn post by Astellas Pharma

_{Photo of Loveleen Datta and Marisol John}

Master of Athletic Therapy (MAT)

vinish — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 14:51:35 +0000

Graduate School at 91��ɫ is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. With our cross-disciplinary programming, experiential learning opportunities, and partnerships, we provide a modern and innovative education for a changing world. We are dedicated to enhancing the academic and professional experiences of our graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.

Graduate Studies is where the next generation of impactful careers and cutting-edge ideas are born. There's a place for you at 91��ɫ.

Note: Now accepting applications for the new Master of Athletic Therapy (MAT) program starting Spring 2027. We encourage you to submit your completed application by November 1st.

Contact Us

Faculty of Graduate Studies

230 91��ɫ Lanes
80 91��ɫ Boulevard, 91��ɫ
4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON M3J1P3

91��ɫ's Campuses

Future Student & Admission
fgsapply@yorku.ca

Program Contact
matinfo@yorku.ca

Graduate Admissions
416-736-2100 ext. 32004

Book a Campus Tour with FGS!

FGS | Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS)

Council Meeting Agenda November 5, 2026

AgendaThursday, November 5, 20262:30 p.m.Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building

1. Welcome and Chair’s Remarks

2. Minutes (Previous Meeting, October 1, 2026) (.docx)3. Business Arising from the Minutes

4. Dean's Remarks5. xxxUpdate to Faculty Regulations:

6. xxxUpdate to Faculty Regulations: Transfers Across Program Levels

7. Reports from Faculty of Graduate Studies' Representatives to Senate Committees

8. Senate Synopses

9. Other Business

Connect with FGS

Preparing Future Biotech Professionals Through Hands-On Learning

Biotechnology Students Building Skills Through Experiential Learning

Alumni

Connect with FGS

Grad Studies Alumni

Quick Links

OUR GRADUATE COMMUNITY

Graduate Employment

Employer Satisfaction

TESTIMONIALS

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS

FGS 60TH ANNIVERSARY AWARD

Share Your Story

Connect with FGS

Alumni Panels & Testimonials

Panel Discussions Hosted by FGS

Alumni Journeys & Success Stories

Connect with FGS

Our Top 30 Alumni Under 30

Chimira Nicole Andres, PhD '25

Wasi Syed Babar, MPPAL '25

Deepana Devadas, LLM '25

Tolu Faromika, MA '25

Merve Kolcak, MES '21

Esther Martinez, MEd '24

Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani, MSc '25

Chinoye Sunny, MES '21

Winnie Yu, MSc '20

Jocelyn Cadieux, MES '20

Lauren Castelino, MES '24

Blessing Owusu, MEd '24

Aniket Prabhudesai, MASc '22

Pankaj Puar, MSc '21

Nathan Yiu, MDEM '21

Khadeja Elsibai, MPPAL '22

John Lau, MES '19

Sara Pishdadian, MA '18, PhD '23

Sam Rockbrune, MA '19

Bianca Bondi, MA '19

Victoria Canale, MSW '21

Lucas DeLuca, MA '19

Philip Geller, MFA '22

Ying Gu, MES '19

Shalini Iyer, MSc '22

Kate Haiyun Mossop, MLCE '21

Lela Pacitti-Sander, MES '17

Raghavender Sahdev, MSC '18

Korina Thomas-Reynolds, MEd '20

Suzanna Alsayed, MDEM '20

Elijah Bawuah, MES '21

Jonathan Clodman, MEd '20

Bri Darboh, MA '18

Jason Robinson, MES '19

Miranda Baksh, MES '19

Nicole Doray, MES '19

Mikhaela Gray-Beerman, MED '18

Connect with FGS

Council Meeting Agenda October 1, 2026

AgendaThursday, October 1, 20262:30 p.m.Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building

1. Welcome and Chair’s Remarks

2. Orientation

3. Minutes (Previous Meeting, June 4, 2026) (.docx)

4. Business Arising from the Minutes

5. Dean's Remarks

6. Update to Faculty Regulations: Transfers Across Program Levels

7. Update to Faculty Regulations: English Language Proficiency

8. Reports from Faculty of Graduate Studies' Representatives to Senate Committees

9. Senate Synopses

10. Other Business

Agenda
Thursday, November 5, 2026
2:30 p.m.
Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building

2. Minutes (Previous Meeting, October 1, 2026) (.docx)

3. Business Arising from the Minutes

4. Dean's Remarks

5. xxxUpdate to Faculty Regulations:

Agenda
Thursday, October 1, 2026
2:30 p.m.
Senate Chamber, N940 Ross Building