The following message was sent to students on September 26, 2024.
Dear Students,
At Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber, we believe that inclusion and belonging are values and essential pillars that strengthen our community, enrich our society, and shape our collective futures. Our commitment to fostering an environment in which every individual feels valued, respected, and included is unwavering. Belonging is our bedrock as we are dedicated to actively embedding inclusion across all aspects of the student experience.
The Importance of Inclusion and Belonging
Inclusion and belonging are fundamental to the well-being and success of our community. By empowering us to embrace diversity, we celebrate our unique brilliance and learn from one another. By fostering an inclusive environment, we enhance the educational experience and prepare ourselves to contribute positively to society. A community in which everyone feels they belong is a community in which innovation, creativity, and collaboration thrive.
Our Shared Responsibility
Creating a culture of inclusion and belonging requires the collective effort of every member of our community. It is our shared responsibility to be considerate of others, challenge biases, stand against discrimination, and support one another. Together, we can build a community of care in which everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
Resources for Support
We understand that some students may face challenges and seek community and mental health support. Here are some resources available to you:
Be a Builder of Brilliance:
We encourage you to actively participate in fostering a sense of belonging on our campuses. Join our events, engage in our on-campus events, learning and development sessions, and be a leader in fostering an inclusive community. Your involvement is key to creating a supportive and respectful environment for all.
Today we launched the Building Connections: EDIB Action Plan which details actions the Humber/UofGH community can do to continue to foster an inclusive campus culture. The EDIB Action plan outlines how inclusion and belonging is at the forefront of everything we do. I encourage you to review the full plan on the Inclusion and Belonging webpage.
Thank you for being an integral part of our diverse and vibrant community. Let’s continue to work together to ensure that Humber and the University of Guelph-Humber remains a place where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.
Warm regards,
| Ian Crookshank Associate Vice-President, Learner and Career Success Dean of Students Humber Polytechnic |
Melanie Spence-Ariemma Vice-Provost, Chief Academic Officer University of Guelph-Humber |
The following email was sent to students on September 3, 2024
Dear Humber Students,
Welcome to the fall 2024 term at Humber Polytechnic. As you plan your next few weeks and months, we want to make sure you have some key information to set you up for success.
To our returning students, it's wonderful to have you with us again. To those joining the Humber community for the first time, we're grateful that you chose Humber and look forward to supporting you along your educational journey.
We will remain committed to your success throughout your academic career. As you begin the term, please take time to familiarize yourself with the supports and resources that are in place to help you navigate your academic journey. The reality is that post-secondary can be challenging, and we're here for you and believe that you can succeed!
A key aspect of that success is developing relationships with members of the Humber community. An easy place to start is with classmates and professors. If you're looking for other opportunities, check out the First Year Experience program or the many events and activities offered by IGNITE, Student Life, Athletics, or other departments and organizations.
Humber offers many resources that are designed to support you academically and personally. It is never too early to reach out to an advisor, stop by the library, drop into the Math and Writing Centre, or connect with a tutor to help prepare you for your academic success. Our Healthy Community Hub serves as a centralized resource for your health and wellness needs. The Hub is the go-to destination for Humber and Guelph-Humber students to find the information they need about health and well-being, and healthy initiatives and events happening across Humber.
Humber Polytechnic is also dedicated to creating an environment free from discrimination and promotes understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for the diversity of all students. We strive to foster belonging in everything we do, while ensuring safe and supportive learning and communal spaces. If you want to connect with members of our Inclusion and Belonging portfolio, Indigenous Education and Engagement, or the student equity hubs you can email edib@humber.ca.
Whether you're new to Humber Polytechnic or returning for another term, don't forget to download the ONECard app as your campus identification, and the Campus Compass app to help you navigate our campuses. Step-by-step instructions for uploading your photo can be found on the ONECard website. Also, stay informed about Humber news and updates by visiting humber.ca/updates.
Lastly, I know that this is a lot of information. The most important thing for you to remember is that we are here for you. If you get stuck, lost, have a question, or don't even know what question to ask, please drop by any office or stop a Humber employee in the hallway and we'll do our best to guide you. Your success is our number one priority.
Wishing you all a term filled with success, fulfillment, and memorable experiences.
Ian Crookshank
Associate Vice-President, Learner and Career Success and Dean of Students
Humber Polytechnic
The following email was sent to students on August 29, 2024.
Dear students,
Today is a big day. Humber College is now Humber Polytechnic.
What does that mean for you? You chose Humber for your education because of our expert faculty, depth and breadth of programming, and experiential opportunities and all of that remains the same.
A polytechnic education offers a distinct third option between university and college - one that combines deep, theoretical learning with applied, hands-on experience to foster employability, not just employment for graduates. The polytechnic model is well established and highly regarded across Canada and the world.
You are now a part of this next era - one in which students will be able to future proof their careers and have an impact on the global stage.
If you are interested in learning more about what we are envisioning for the future of Humber Polytechnic, I encourage you to look at Building Brilliance.
Thank you for choosing Humber.
Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan
President and CEO
Humber Polytechnic