September is the start of our busiest semester, and in the spirit of that energy I want to welcome you to the vibrant season that is fall at MacEwan. It’s a special time of year on campus.
For our students, it’s the exciting next step of a life-changing journey of education and enlightening experiences. For our faculty and staff, it’s a time to welcome new and returning students and ensure they experience the supportive learning environment that is fundamental to MacEwan’s success.
It’s also a time to make new connections. This is where the greatness of post-secondary education really comes to life.
It’s our faculty sharing their expertise and passion for teaching with students, connecting them with their own interests and, together, exploring all the opportunities their education will provide. Outside the classroom, it’s the vast array of supports, opportunities and events that help our students thrive and become well-rounded graduates ready to connect their talents to the world, and build relationships and connections that will last for many years.
To start the year off strong I encourage everyone to participate in the Downtown Campus Block Party on September 4. This event brings almost 5,000 people together across downtown to have some fun, make new connections, enjoy a free BBQ and feel a part of something bigger. I also encourage you to take it all in – check out other events and clubs promoted on campus year-round as there’s always something to check out.
We’ve also introduced a community nest program where first-year students are connected with others to enjoy social events and weekly activities, creating relationships that will last throughout their time at MacEwan.
Connection is at the core of our MacEwan community. For students, making connections with faculty and peers helps ensure your time here with us is valuable, meaningful and fun. For faculty and staff, it’s about connecting students to their studies and sharing the opportunities and supports that will help them succeed. For all of us, it’s finding ways to work with our networks – whether that’s classmates, collaborators or fellow researchers – to explore solutions to issues we’re facing in our communities.
Throughout the year, our social media feeds and stories highlight the many ways MacEwan offers students an exceptional undergraduate education. Look for our accounts on your favorite platforms to stay on top of our happenings and celebrate what an amazing place MacEwan is!
I look forward to our State of the University event on October 10 where we’ll have an opportunity to celebrate our many accomplishments and share our progress toward achieving our strategic vision of Teaching Greatness. We’ll share more information on this important event as the date nears.
If you see me on campus, please say hello. I love to walk the halls, pop into classrooms and meet our MacEwan community. I want to hear about your latest project, discovery or experience that you’re excited to share. When we connect, it makes our university the exceptional place it is.
Have a great academic year.
Dr. Annette Trimbee
President and Vice-Chancellor