On November 4, York University's President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, and honoured guests gathered to officially mark the grand opening of York University's Markham Campus.
With technology rich spaces and state-of-the-art equipment, Markham Campus offers students flexible learning formats, small class sizes and the opportunity to round out classroom learning with workplace experiential education.
Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor speaks at the opening of the Markham Campus.
"Serving the students and meeting the needs of employers in York Region and beyond with best-in-class educational experiences and work integrated learning opportunities is our goal. With the first full cohort of students enrolled this fall, we have turned our focus to support their academic needs and professional ambitions - to set them up for a lifetime of success," said Rhonda Lenton, president, York University.
The academic programs offered at the campus are responsive to the future skills requirements of businesses in Ontario and York Region, supported by an unparalleled commitment to access that ensures diverse learners benefit from dynamic learning spaces while they study and local job prospects when they graduate. Located in or near five provincially significant employment zones, York Region is projected to create 15,000 jobs annually through 2030 and Markham Campus is the newest addition to the talent pipeline.
"York University's new Markham campus is a tremendous addition to York Region and all of Ontario," said Premier Doug Ford. "This campus will equip students with the skills needed to succeed in today's economy, while supporting the growth of local industries and creating new opportunities right here in Markham. Our government is proud to support this investment in education and innovation, which will drive economic growth and help build Ontario's workforce of the future."
In recent years, York University has grown its presence in York Region and the City of Markham. York's community innovation hub YSpace supports budding entrepreneurs in Markham.
Centre: Ontario Premier Doug Ford, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti cut the ribbon to open York's new Markham Campus.
The joyful occasion marks the culmination of many years of collaboration and teamwork, overcoming challenges of a global pandemic, stretched supply chain and more. The stunning new building that is Markham Campus represents significant education infrastructure in downtown Markham - already bustling with people attending the Pan Am Centre, nearby GO transit, and the YMCA, York's new campus is already seeing keen interest from future students. York Region is projected to have the highest growth rate in Ontario in the 18-22-year-old population, increasing by 34 per cent by 2041.
With significant financial support from York Region, a generous donation of land from the City of Markham, a vital commitment of operational funding from the province of Ontario, and incredibly generous gifts from donors and philanthropists, Markham Campus is on a path to success.
"I am thrilled to be here with so many who have been with us on this journey, as supporters, friends, and advocates. Thank you for your continued support and helping us achieve this incredible vision for our innovative new campus," Lenton concluded.
