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University College will be closed from 3:00 p.m. on Friday February 14 for the Family Day long weekend. The college will reopen Tuesday, February 18th. Have a great long weekend!

The Founding College of the University of Toronto

Three UC community members recognized with Order of Canada

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The governor general recently announced 88 new appointments to the Order of Canada including three UC community members. Former UC Principal Sylvia Bashevkin (2005 - 2011) and Emerita Professor Tania Li, a University Professor in the department of anthropology, were named Officer of the Order while UC alumna Karen Levine (UC BA 1977) was named a member of the Order. 

Created in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honours. It recognizes individuals whose achievements and service have had an impact on communities across Canada and beyond. 

“Members of the Order of Canada are builders of hope for a better future,” Gov. Gen. Mary Simon said in a statement. “Each in their own way, they broaden the realm of possibilities and inspire others to continue pushing its boundaries. Thank you for your perseverance, fearless leadership and visionary spirit, and welcome to the Order of Canada.” 

Read about the UC recipients below and other U of T appointments at U of T News

Sylvia Bashevkin

Sylvia Beth Bashevkin, O.C. 
Toronto, Ontario 

Sylvia Bashevkin is one of Canada’s top scholars of gender and politics. Among the first to study the obstacles facing women in public life, she analyzed the consequences of women’s political participation and has worked to broaden opportunities for diverse people to engage in politics. 

Tania Li

Tania Murray Li, O.C. 
Toronto, Ontario 

University professor Tania Li is one of Canada’s leading anthropologists. Her innovative ethnographic research shows how international land development and corporate agriculture generate unintended poverty, and how equitable and sustainable practices may be achieved. She has had a profound impact across multiple disciplines and has informed policy and human rights initiatives. 

Karen Levine, who earned a bachelor of arts as a member of University College in 1977, was named a Member of the Order in recognition of her decades-long career at CBC Radio. She is also honoured for her book Hana’s Suitcase, which has educated young readers worldwide about the Holocaust.