The following is a letter from Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane to all students at Queen’s:

Dear students,

This weekend will see thousands of Queen’s alumni and friends return to campus for our annual Homecoming celebrations. I hope you can join in the festivities and share in the spirit and energy of this quintessential Queen’s event.

The Queen’s pride evident during Homecoming is contagious, fueled by the many alumni, students, staff, faculty and friends who join in to celebrate our university. Homecoming is about reuniting with friends, sharing memories and reconnecting with an institution that, for many, was left behind years ago. We want to ensure that those returning to Queen’s can see all that has changed on our campus, learn what is important to our current students, and get a sense of what student life is like today. In the last few weeks, our institution has dealt with some difficult issues, from climate change to sexual violence to racism and homophobia. This university is not isolated from the challenges of the outside world, but in the face of this I have seen our community unite and strong voices prevail in the name of social justice and equity. I feel privileged to be your Principal. I am asking that over this weekend, you continue to demonstrate the values of respect and inclusion, and take part in the various celebrations across the city with the safety and security of everyone at the front of your minds.

Queen’s students make this place special. Alumni who return remember their time here fondly and want to enjoy that student energy once more when they visit. There is a place for enthusiasm and excitement but that must never compromise safety or infringe upon our neighbors who are left to deal with disruptive or even dangerous behaviour. I urge you to enjoy every aspect of the Homecoming celebrations but to do so responsibly and thoughtfully. At the bottom of this email, I’ve shared some safety-related contacts and resources you may find helpful. Take a moment to add some of these numbers to your phone or download the Queen’s SeQure app that gives you quick access to campus security. 

I am looking forward to participating in Homecoming events this weekend and hope to see many of you at the football game on Saturday (Go, Gaels!). Enjoy being a part of our larger Queen’s family and revel in the collective pride you share with a long line of Queen’s graduates before you.

I wish you all a wonderful Homecoming that’s safe, fun and full of tricolor spirit.

Cha gheill!

Patrick Deane
Principal & Vice-Chancellor

STAY SAFE
Key contacts and resources
Add these numbers to your phone, or download the SeQure Safety App (iTunes or Google Play):

• Emergency on campus – 613-533-6111 or 911 for life-threatening emergency response
• AMS Walkhome 613-533-9255 (WALK) or Campus Safe Walk program 613-533-6080
• Campus observation room – (Chez Lenny across from Leonard Dining Hall or School of Kinesiology & Health Studies – room 107) a safe, confidential non-medical detox service from Student Wellness Service where you can go if you’ve had too much to drink
• Sexual Violence Prevention & Response