To all members of the Queen’s community – students, staff, and faculty,
As the first week of the fall term ends, I want to extend a warm welcome to everyone new to Queen’s, and welcome back those who are returning to the university. The start of a new academic year is a thrilling time, and I’m certain everyone who was here in the summer agrees that it is especially wonderful to see campus busy again. With everyone full of energy and excitement, there are many events and activities to unite us. I was honoured to welcome the first-year class at Richardson Stadium last weekend and I look forward to many other opportunities in the coming months to connect with everyone.
Potential and possibility at Queen’s rests within its people, and I’m grateful for your presence and everything you contribute. Our vibrant community is committed to excellence in learning, teaching, research, and global and community engagement. Everyone has a role to play, and together we channel our sense of social responsibility, optimism, and faith in a brighter future to advance our academic mission and the Queen’s Strategy.
As such, each year, I find myself increasingly proud of Queen’s students, staff, and faculty. I am particularly appreciative of your efforts to ensure that in everything we do, we are mindful of the impact we have in the world and here at home. We want our impact to always be positive. Queen’s works in partnership with the City of Kingston and countless other organizations to ensure ongoing collaboration, engagement, and responsibility. We must continue building these relationships that reflect positively on the university in the local community and beyond.
Students, there are resources to help you be a responsible citizen and local community member. Kingston is one of the most beautiful and bustling cities in Canada and there are so many great things to do. I encourage you to explore all it has to offer and to always be respectful of your neighbours and each other. There are also various resources and activities designed to enrich your experience at Queen’s and help you succeed. Build your connections and learn from not only your professors, but also your peers. Engage with staff and faculty who are available to assist you with finding the right programs and services for your needs.
Finally, it is important to acknowledge the many challenges, uncertainties, and tensions occurring here and around the world. The commitment and resilience of the Queen’s community in the face of these issues fills me with hope and I’m glad we can support one another through these difficult times. If you are affected or struggling, speak with a trusted peer, leader, advisor, colleague, or manager and access the many resources and support services available. For students, the Student Affairs Student Resources webpage has links and information about campus services, programs, and supports. For staff and faculty, the Human Resources Get Help webpage offers various services, guides, and opportunities.
Please remember that consideration and compassion for one another is paramount. Queen’s is built on the foundational principles of open inquiry and the freedom to speak, write, listen, and learn. This is one of the strengths of a university and we are committed to ensuring Queen’s is a place where people can come together respectfully even when ideas or opinions may challenge others or make some uncomfortable. We encourage discourse and debate at Queen’s, but we will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, intimidation, threats of violence, or illegal acts. Everyone should feel welcome and supported while working and studying here and as I’ve stated before, the safety and wellbeing of all students, staff, and faculty is a priority to ensure we remain an inclusive and responsible institution.
I wish you all the best this fall and look forward to seeing you around campus.
Sincerely,
Patrick Deane
Principal & Vice-Chancellor