Dear members of the McGill community,
As this academic year draws to a close, I think about how we, as a university community, have continued to evolve and adapt in recent months. These months have been unpredictable and challenging for each of us in different ways. I thank you for your commitment and courage, and for helping to carve out a way forward this spring.
The winter term and convocation were certainly exceptional in every sense this year. The resilience of our community has been evident in the tireless efforts of so many. Everyone at McGill has done their part, and I thank you all.
We nonetheless celebrate these successes with humility. Recent events around the world and at home remind us that we must remain vigilant and double down on our efforts to make our community a place where every member feels included, valued and respected. In that spirit, I have given a mandate to the Provost to work in consultation with the community to develop a plan for McGill to advance its work in connection with anti-Black racism. This plan will include specific actions, targets and timelines, and the accompanying allocation of resources.
I am mindful that there is a lot of work ahead of us and I am committed to doing everything it takes to reach our common goals. But looking back at the recent months, I am also proud of the achievements of our community members who pulled together for the vulnerable, for each other, and for the class of 2020 this spring, and I look forward to welcoming our new and returning students to McGill this fall. A considerable effort is going on this summer to ensure that we are ready for the fall and winter terms. Everyone is working towards creating a dynamic and stimulating learning experience no matter the circumstances we will face.
To be at our best as we approach the fall term and McGill’s 200th anniversary, we need to take care of ourselves and renew our energy. I encourage you to rest, find meaning in your well-deserved downtime, and take pleasure in the company of your family and friends. I wish you all a beautiful summer.
Sincerely,
Suzanne Fortier
Principal and Vice-Chancellor
McCall MacBain Professor