2025 was a year of bold moves and remarkable achievements at George Brown Polytechnic. From redefining our identity to celebrating student success on the world stage, we as a community embraced change and innovation with purpose.
Living our Values
We began the year by refreshing our core Values the principles that guide every decision and inspire every action. These aren't just words on a page; they reflect who we are as a community and what we strive to become.
Students rising to the challenge
Our students reached incredible heights this year. Skilled trades competitors brought home multiple gold and silver medals at Skills Ontario and Skills Canada, with Luca Assad earning gold in Cooking and advancing to the World Skills competition in Shanghai. Business students also claimed top honours at the Ontario College Case Accounting Competition. Yaroslav Svidritskiy made George Brown athletics history, becoming the first volleyball player in program history to be named both the OCAA East Division Player of the Year and a CCAA All-Canadian. These victories showcase the talent and determination that define George Brown.
Hosting Canada's largest academic gathering
In May and June, we made history as the first college to host the Congress of Humanities and Social Sciences. Over eight days, thought leaders from across Canada and beyond came together to spark conversations that matter reinforcing our role as a hub for ideas and innovation.
Celebrating our graduates
Convocation 2025 was our biggest yet, with nearly 7,500 graduates crossing the stage. It was a proud moment for our entire community, and a testament to the teamwork that makes this milestone possible.
We also welcomed back our first graduating class of George Brown nurses to help them celebrate their 50 years of excellence, showcasing how our alumni remain deeply connected to our community.
Welcoming a new Chancellor
Canadian construction leader Geoff Smith presided over his first convocation as our Chancellor, bringing invaluable insights on adapting to change in a rapidly evolving workforce.
Building community connections
From partnering with the Royal Canadian Navy to support veterans in culinary training, to hosting the TDSB's Black Student Summer Leadership Symposium, and welcoming Dr. Siyabulela Mandela for an inspiring lecture, we strengthened ties that make a difference. Our Chef School also earned recognition for food innovation in long-term care, and we joined Toronto's Waterfront Festival as an official partner.
Opening Limberlost Place
September marked the opening of Limberlost Place to students and our community a stunning, sustainable mass-timber building that sets a global standard. This space is more than a campus building; it's a vibrant hub for learning, wellness, and community.
Launching the People Plan
In November, we introduced our first-ever People Plan, a roadmap to enhance the employee experience and foster a supportive, motivating work environment.
Advancing accessibility
As the year closes, we are on the cusp of achieving full compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act a milestone nearly a decade in the making.
Becoming George Brown Polytechnic
Perhaps the most defining moment of 2025 is our transformation into George Brown Polytechnic. This strategic shift positions us for the future, elevating our profile and impact through applied research, industry-driven programs, and innovation. With a new academic structure and the launch of our first master's program in Construction Management, we are ready to lead in a changing world.
Looking ahead
2025 was a year of challenge and change, but what stands out most is how we came together to move forward with purpose. Our shared vision shines through every achievement. Thank you to everyone who made this year extraordinary, and here's to an even brighter 2026.
