The theme of this issue of UC Magazine is ‘giving back’, a value common among University College students and alumni throughout the decades.
This College creates lifelong standards of behaviour. UC’s founding principles lay the groundwork for curiosity, pursuit of knowledge, and a sense of civic duty.
As I noted in speaking to our Alumni of Influence awardees earlier this year, “collectively, in every generation, UC graduates have made contributions to virtually every cause and every enterprise there is. But for all of them, their journeys began here as undergraduates at UC.”
These contributions may be made in the course of a career — think of the brilliant scientist whose research forms the basis for a new vaccine or cure for a disease — or outside of working hours, such as those who volunteer in community kitchens.
Many of you also give back to University College in innumerable ways: through volunteer hours, by establishing bursaries, by mentoring students, or by leaving a gift to UC in your will. Each of these contributions benefits the College, but it also uplifts our spirits, because it indicates that you feel a strong connection to UC and demonstrates that we’ve succeeded in instilling the value of community.
Wherever and in whatever way you focus your passion, we applaud you when you look beyond yourselves and offer a caring hand to others. In these pages, you will find stories about some of your fellow UC graduates and others who have made the time and effort to give back, whether to UC or the larger community.
You’ll learn about artist Vivek Shraya, undertaking a residency at the Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies; meet young alumna Uma Kulkar, a consultant to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development; connect with Deborah Tam, a retiree who spends two days each week throughout the year preparing for the annual UC Book Sale; and get to know many other dedicated individuals.
And, there are many more of you out there who are making your own unique contributions.
In these uncertain times, your steadfast willingness to make a difference in the lives of others is more valuable and important than ever.
With gratitude,
Professor Sali A. Tagliamonte
Acting Principal, University College