Jonny Chard | News Editor
Featured image: After 10 years as President and Vice-Chancellor, Shoukri will be handing the reins to Rhonda Lenton on July 1. | Courtesy of YFile
As President and Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri prepares to bow out of higher education, he had one last message to give the York community.
The March 23 Last Lecture saw Shoukri reflect on his 10 years at York. He offered words of advice and hope for the university as it moves forward under the direction of newly appointed President Delegate Rhonda Lenton.
Shoukri began by noting how the lecture was a great opportunity for him to reflect on the challenges he had faced, the lessons he had learned and the incredible people he had the opportunity to meet and work with.
He noted that in an age of information and innovation, with students connected to devices and technology, universities are needed possibly more than ever before.
“It is the role of education to help us interpret and give meaning to this flood of information,” said Shoukri.
“You are making an excellent investment by being at university; preparing yourselves for careers that will be complex and constantly evolving.”
Following his introduction, he spoke about the two qualities he feels drive success and enrichment—integrity and empathy.
“Integrity implies consistently acting on the basis of clear moral and ethical principles, irrespective of the circumstances one is subject to,” he stated.
“It can be used to address increasingly polarized political viewpoints. Leaders with integrity can shape the future of our societies by changing the conversations we see taking place.”
Shoukri feels that the ability to put oneself in another’s shoes is key for breaking down barriers.
“Empathy is essential for understanding and thriving in […] constant change,” said Shoukri.
“It is lack of empathy that threatens achievements with the growing polarization in the world.”
He also stated that it is a quality that has been threatened at times, and needs continuous nurturing and protection.
Shoukri also noted that a broad-based education is important to provide the missing link between science and action.
He then reflected on his time at York and the achievements made during his tenure.
“I have been a President that has wanted to move York closer to its destiny. A future that has been planned since our first years as a university,” he stated.
“Today our student body has grown […] and our campuses are remarkably diverse. This is one of our greatest strengths.”
From the new Costa Rica and Markham campuses, to the new student centre and long-awaited subway, Shoukri feels that York is closer than ever to achieving its vision and believes that it is poised to take a greater role in the higher education landscape.
After a number of thanks and acknowledgements, Shoukri stated that it has been an honour for him to serve the York community.
“The important part is to not only be part of change, but to help make that change,” he said.
“Embrace the change […] and continue to ensure that York lives up to its reputation as Canada’s most progressive university with some of the most dedicated, innovative and talented people,” added Shoukri.
President Shoukri will hand over the role to Dr. Rhonda Lenton on July 1.
Wow! Great to find a post knkcniog my socks off!