The past few months have been marked by the pomp and circumstance of convocations, thought-provoking lectures and the merriment of the Christmas season. See what we celebrated at St. Michael’s in November and December.
Congratulations Class of 2024
The convocation for St. Mike’s Theology and Continuing Education students took place on November 9 in St. Basil’s Parish. This year’s convocation ceremonies included 19 graduates from the Faculty of Theology, three graduates from the Diploma in Interfaith Dialogue and 28 graduates from Continuing Education’s Diploma in Social Responsibility and Sustainability program.
Capstone Awards
The President’s Capstone Awards are awarded to summative projects from the Diploma in Social Responsibility and Sustainability (SR&S). The projects are designed to create a positive social change and environmental impact in the larger community. This year’s winning projects focused on sustainable and just supply chains in Canada; a guide that places a systems lens on a sustainability reporting; and a business case and model comparison of municipal ESG reporting and materiality assessment.
Honorary Degrees
Two honorary degrees were conferred at the convocation ceremonies. Francis Anthony Comper, CM, an influential member of the USMC community, was granted a Doctorate of the University and Sister Nathalie Becquart, renowned for her work with the Synod in Rome, was granted a Doctor of Divinity. A luncheon followed the convocation ceremonies for the honorees and their guests.
While in town, Sr. Nathalie led a fireside chat with students on the Synod on Synodality.
Regis College Convocation
Twenty-four graduates celebrated their academic achievements at Regis College’s convocation on November 23. Dr. M. Shawn Copeland received an honorary doctorate for her outstanding research and advocacy for social justice issues, especially on those who are marginalized and oppressed.
The day before, Dr. Copeland delivered Regis College’s Chancellor’s Lecture on the topic of ‘The Political Vision of Jesus of Nazareth: Imagination, Mission, and the Reign of God’.
Book Launch for Professor McGowan’s Latest Book
History and Celtic Studies Professor Mark McGowan captivated an audience of students, faculty, alumni, and friends with his lecture and book launch of Finding Molly Johnson, which looks at the fate of Irish famine orphans.
Professor McGowan Inducted into Royal Society of Canada
In addition to the launch of his book, we’re also celebrating Professor McGowan’s induction into the Royal Society of Canada at its Celebration of Excellence and Engagement on November 9. The honour stems from his groundbreaking work on Irish migration and settlement in Canada.
The Honouring Indigenous Aid Exhibit
Regis College presented ‘The Honouring Indigenous Aid Exhibit’, which paid tribute to the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Huron-Wendat First Nations in Canada West, now Ontario, who contributed to Irish Famine relief in 1847.
Dante Lecture
The annual Dante Lecture, established by Alberto Di Giovanni and Caroline Morgan Di Giovanni, was held on November 6. This year’s lecture, ‘Dante and Beatrice,’ was presented by Prof. George Corbett, Professor of Theology, School of Divinity, University of St. Andrews, U.K. He spoke about Dante’s Beatrice. The lecture was followed by a reception in the John M. Kelly Library where guests enjoyed an exhibit curated by Kelly Library’s Theology Librarian Noel McFerran. The exhibit focused on illustrations of Dante and Beatrice found in early manuscripts, 19th century engravings, and contemporary works.
A Poet Talks About Poetry
On November 7, the Friends of the Kelly Library hosted ‘A Poet Talks About Poetry,’ a chat with writer and SMC alumna Kate Marshall Flaherty. A graduate of St. Michael’s College and longtime facilitator for St. Michael’s Continuing Education programmes, Kate Marshall Flaherty has written seven poetry books, including Reaching V, published by Guernica Editions, and Digging, published by Aeolus House, and has won several awards. Caroline Morgan Di Giovanni, President Emerita of the Friends of the Kelly Library and fellow writer, was the evening’s host.
Lonergan Research Institute Lecture
The Lonergan Research Institute hosted a public lecture on November 14 by Dr. Karen Petersen Finch, of Montreal’s Presbyterian College on the ‘Applications of Lonergan’s Method: Questions for Reflection.’
Annual Elliott Allen Institute Lecture in Theology and Ecology
Noted Norwegian Theologian Dr. Jan-Olav Henriksen delivered the annual Elliott Allen Institute Lecture in Theology and Ecology on November 18. He spoke on the topic of ‘Allowing Grace to Work in the Anthropocene: Lessons from Nordic Creation Theology.’
Alumni Initiative 4 Women Conversations Series
The Alumni Initiative 4 Women held the latest instalment in its Conversations Series on ‘Landmark Changes from Papal Synod’ on November 8. It was a thought-provoking evening in response to the historic Synod on Synodality. Moderator Catherine Mulroney welcomed a dynamic panel of speakers: Christianity & Culture student Bridget Bowles, along with Regis St. Michael’s Faculty of Theology (RSM) doctoral students Sr. Carla Thomas, OP and Christine Way-Skinner shared their unique generational insights on this pivotal moment in the Catholic Church. The event explored the Synod’s far-reaching mandate to advise Pope Francis on ways to more fully include all members of the Church, especially women. Notably, this Synod made history with the inclusion of 54 women among 365 delegates, and for the first time, women were granted voting rights in a Synod of Bishops.
‘Listening to Women in Medieval Irish Literature’
Professor Joanne Findon, Professor Emerita of English Literature at Trent University offered a closer listen to the voices of medieval Irish women on November 26.
University Chancellor Named Cardinal
Archbishop of Toronto and Chancellor of St. Michael’s Cardinal Francis Leo was elevated to the College of Cardinals at the Papal Consistory in Rome on December 7. He was joined by President David Sylvester and other members of the USMC community and collegium to mark this momentous occasion. We wish His Eminence Cardinal Leo all the best in the work that lies ahead.
When in Rome
Regis St. Michael’s Dean Jaroslav Skira and Professor Gerard Ryan, SJ attended a conference on the ‘Future of Theology’ organized by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture & Education from December 9-10. In addition to meeting theologians from around the world, they were granted an audience with Pope Francis.
A New Four-Year Operating Agreement with U of T
The University of St. Michael’s College and the two other independent federated universities signed a new four-year operation agreement with the University of Toronto. The agreement outlines mutual commitments and responsibilities including the use of shared spaces, classrooms, offices and student facilities for each federated university and ensures a rich student experience.
Campus Ministry Hosts TCDSB Day of Service
Campus Ministry hosted students from nine TCDSB high schools and their teachers to meet with the school board’s Nurturing Our Faith Community office and Deacon Robert Kinghorn. After Mass and a talk by Deacon Kinghorn about his Church on the Street experience, students gathered for lunch and then made sandwiches to distribute to people in need and toured the inspiring sculptures on campus.
Continuing Education Hosts Learning Day for High School Students
On November 12, the Continuing Education Division facilitated an orientation and learning day for 55 senior students from the nearby St. Joseph College School. During the day, the students participated in a variety of activities to increase their knowledge of both USMC and a day in the life of an undergraduate student. The activities included two mini lectures led by faculty members, a tour of campus and a residence room, a student panel and a scavenger hunt in the Kelly Library.
City of Toronto Green Skills Workshop
Director of Continuing Education Michael Salvatori joined colleagues from other Continuing Education Divisions as well as industry and community partners at a Green Skills workshop hosted by the City of Toronto. The purpose of the day was to convene key stakeholders from the municipal government, industry and postsecondary institutions to address the workforce needs that are essential to achieve the City of Toronto’s Net Zero strategy goals. The day offered an opportunity to promote USMC’s Diploma in Sustainability & Social Responsibility as well as the new courses and programs developed to further sustainability goals.
Panel Discussion on ‘It All Starts with a Story: Five Celebrated Children’s Authors on Talking to Young People About Social Change’
On November 28, Continuing Education hosted a virtual panel discussion with five Canadian children’s authors and educators to discuss challenges and strategies for holding meaningful discussions with young people about urgent and timely social issues in age-appropriate ways. The panel included Hadley Dyer, Joyce Grant, Rabia Khokhar, Inna Figotina and Rochelle Strauss and it was facilitated by Continuing Education Director Michael Salvatori. Over 40 participants joined online and contributed to the conversation. A recording can be viewed here.
World Digital Preservation Day
Students and staff dropped by the lobby of the Kelly Library on November 7 – World Digital Preservation Day, 2024 – to learn about digital preservation and find out what to consider for preserving their own born-digital materials. Over the course of the three-hour event, 37 people stopped by to learn something new about digital preservation.
Friendship Bracelet Making De-Stressing Event
The Kelly Library held two very successful friendship bracelet making events on November 13 and November 20 in the Kelly Café. Whether you were a Swiftie preparing for the Toronto Eras Tour shows, making matching bracelets with your friends or a midterm-addled student needing a study break, all were welcome at this free event held for students, staff and faculty. We had so much fun being creative, making memories together, and seeing one another’s bracelets when they were finished.
Santa Claus Drops by St. Mike’s
The holiday season at St. Mike’s kicked off with a magical celebration where alumni and their families enjoyed delicious cookies, hot chocolate, and other treats. Little ones unleashed their creativity at the holiday arts and crafts corner, making their own Christmas masterpieces, as well as writing letters to Santa. Santa Claus made a special appearance, spreading early holiday cheer and magic before his big parade (The City of Toronto Santa Claus Parade) to make this a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Christmas Tea
One of St. Michael’s favourite holiday traditions returned. The Office of Advancement was delighted to thank donors for their support by inviting them to the annual Christmas Tea on December 3. The afternoon was filled with warmth, caroling with the Gaudete Singers and festive cheer.
Christmas Market
St. Michael’s hosted its 3rd annual Christmas Market on December 3. A record number of vendors sold one-of-a-kind finds including baked goods, handmade items and jewelry. More than $1700 was raised in support of Romero House. View photos here.
Staff and Faculty Luncheon
Staff and faculty rang in the holiday season at a luncheon on December 5 in Brennan 200. Attendees were encouraged to embrace the spirit of fun by wearing their most outlandish ugly Christmas sweaters, adding a lighthearted touch to the event. The luncheon provided a warm and joyful atmosphere, where colleagues enjoyed good food, laughter, and the opportunity to connect with one another. It was a wonderful occasion that captured the holiday cheer and camaraderie of the St. Michael’s community.
Falala Formal
Student Life celebrated our student leaders at this year’s Falala Formal. More than 90 students enjoyed a dinner with the season’s festivities as a thank you for their contributions on campus. View photos from the event here.
Schola Cantorum Advent Concert
The St. Michael’s Schola Cantorum presented their Advent concert at St. Basil’s Church on December 9. The concert featured the Oratorio de Noël (Christmas Oratorio) by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921), a lush and lyrical meditation on Christ’s birth through musical settings of biblical passages for soloists and chorus. Thanks to the efforts of U of T Music Technologist Peter Olsen, we’re pleased to share a recording of the concert with you.
Faculty and Fellows Reception
On December 12, the Principal’s Office held a reception for faculty and fellows in Charbonnel Lounge.
New Issue of St. Michael’s Alumni Magazine
The latest issue of St. Michael’s Alumni Magazine is now available. The cover story features Alumna Eleanor McGrath on living in harmony with life’s seasons, as well as a look back on Professor Mark McGowan’s illustrious 34-year career at St. Mike’s. Read the magazine here.