Markham Campus can now take advantage of delicious off-site catering options from York Region-based social enterprises for your next catered event

Food and Ancillary Services and Strategic Procurement Services are delighted to announce an exciting new strategic program for students, faculty and staff at its Markham Campus who require off-campus catering for meetings and events at the Markham Campus.

This program welcomes three York Region-based social enterprises who make substantive contributions to community economic development within the Region of York by providing employment and work-related training opportunities to community members who face one or more barriers to the workforce.

based in Thornhill, specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine, supports individuals with developmental barriers to the workforce.

based in Newmarket, provides fresh and seasonal dining options and supports individuals facing food insecurity.��

, based in Georgina, provides international dishes using ingredients found in York Region and supports individuals facing food scarcity and barriers to employment.

These vendors have been preapproved for use at the University and those interested do not need to complete an external catering request form to use their catering services.��For more information, please visit the Off-Campus Catering | Food Services �ɱ�������ٱ�.��

As the first university in York Region, this catering opportunity presents an opportunity for the York community to demonstrate the shared strong bond between the vision and values of the Markham Campus, and our shared responsibility to create a stronger, more inclusive future in York Region. As Kim McLean, Assistant Vice President Ancillary Services notes, “Supporting Markham social enterprises for catering is a simple but powerful choice: it keeps dollars local, uplifts equity-deserving entrepreneurs, and brings authentic, delicious cuisine to campus events.”��

As a leader in the social procurement space, community members are encouraged to consider the impact of their purchases. For a fulsome list of social procurement vendors who may be able to provide the good or service you’re looking for, community members are invited to search �첥��Ƶ’s pioneering Social Procurement Vendor Portal at: Social Procurement Vendor Directory | Social Procurement.

Contact for Catering: Mike Kelloway mikek@yorku.ca

Social Procurement: Brent Brodie bbrodie@yorku.ca

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�첥��Ƶ’s Markham Campus is proud to welcome two accomplished educators to the community: Professor Sarah Zipp, leading the new Sport Management program, and Professor Navid Mohaghegh, joining the Lassonde School of Engineering. Their diverse expertise — from sport and social impact to advanced cybersecurity systems — adds fresh perspective to the campus’s growing academic community.

“We’re pleased to have Professor Sarah Zipp leading Sport Management and Professor Navid Mohaghegh joining Engineering here,” said Dan Palermo, Deputy Provost, �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus. “They bring very different but equally strong expertise — from exploring how sport connects to society and sustainability, to advancing new ideas in engineering. As our campus grows, their teaching and research will play a big part in building a vibrant, forward-looking community for our students.”

Championing Sport for Social Good: Professor Sarah Zipp

Zipp is the newly appointed associate professor and program coordinator for Sport Management at �첥��Ƶ. Zipp has taught at universities in the U.K., U.S., Netherlands, Singapore and Japan, bringing a global perspective to York. Her work explores sport for social good, gender equality, globalization, sport policy and social issues in sport.

Zipp has published numerous journal articles, book chapters, reports and news articles. She has served as a consultant to Nike and is currently an advisor for the Global Observatory for Gender Equality in Sport (Switzerland). She was named the Early Career Researcher of the Year (2020) by the Journal of Sport for Development. She is also the founder of the Power to Play Period, a project on menstrual health education in sport.

Zipp earned her PhD in international development at Erasmus University (Netherlands). As a student, she competed in basketball, athletics and team handball.

Sarah Zipp

Engineering the Future: Professor Navid Mohaghegh

Joining Lassonde School of Engineering at Markham Campus,  Mohaghegh brings over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity and AI innovation. As a principal architect and educator, he has led the development of mission-critical systems for organizations including the Government of Canada, IBM, Bell Canada, CN Rail, and major financial institutions.

Mohaghegh’s expertise spans AI-powered threat detection, post-quantum cryptography, and privacy-preserving identity systems. He holds federal secret-level clearance and is a licensed Professional Engineer. His work has shaped national infrastructure, including Canada’s proof-of-vaccine credential system and CN Rail’s autonomous inspection platform.

An accomplished author and mentor, Mohaghegh has guided students who now lead at top tech firms. At York, he will teach advanced AI-based cybersecurity, helping students navigate and shape the future of secure digital systems.

Navid Mohaghegh

Markham Campus is quickly becoming a vibrant destination for forward-thinking education, research, and collaboration. With new faculty bringing global experience and innovative ideas, the campus continues to expand its interdisciplinary offerings and foster meaningful connections among students, staff, and faculty. As the academic community grows, so does the opportunity to shape a bold and inclusive future — one that reflects the energy and ambition of the campus and the broader �첥��Ƶ vision.

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To Our Markham Campus 2025 Graduates, 

Congratulations to each of you on reaching this momentous milestone. This celebration reflects the culmination of your commitment and resilience, and on behalf of �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus’s leadership team, we are proud of your accomplishments.

Completing your program is a testament to your dedication to hard work and the challenges you’ve faced with courage. Your efforts have helped build and transform this vibrant campus through your ideas, your passion, your leadership, and your presence, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire.

As you embark on your next chapter – whether that be further studies, new career opportunities, or personal pursuits — know that you carry the skills and knowledge that are needed to make an impact in this world.

You will always remain a valued part of our university community. I encourage you to stay connected with us as proud alumni, and to continue sharing your journey with the community that believes in you.

Congratulations once again, and I’m wishing you continued success.

Dan Palermo 

Deputy Provost, �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus 

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To our Markham Campus students,  
 
As we come to the end of this remarkable academic year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what you have all accomplished. As the inaugural class of �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus, you have experienced and made history by bringing this campus to life. 

Your passionate energy has been the driving force behind what we’ve achieved from the first day we opened our doors. You’ve been integral to the launch of this campus establishing a culture rooted in leadership, while creating a community. 

You faced the challenges of a new environment with courage and adaptability turning temporary limitations into opportunities for creativity.

This first year Markham Campus achieved many significant milestones.  In addition to our campus being fully open with teaching, learning and social spaces accessible to our community, this coming Fall we're anticipating the launch of the “Enterprise Café” food kiosk in the north-east atrium; which will offer a selection of fresh and prepared foods. Thanks to your support and feedback, we continue to enhance the campus – refining spaces, expanding resources, and creating an atmosphere that mirrors the incredible student body it serves.  

With the year coming to a close, I want to commend you for the legacy you have created. You have set the standard and created a path for future cohorts to follow. Your influence has made a lasting mark, and the students who arrive next year – and in the years to come – will look to you as the trailblazers who made all this possible. 

Thank you for your courage and your commitment to making this inaugural year unforgettable. It has been a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of students. 

I’m wishing you continued success as you carry this momentum forward. 
 
Dan Palermo,  
Deputy Provost, �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus 

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The Taiwan Entrepreneurs Society/Taipei Toronto Charitable Foundation (TEST Toronto Charitable Foundation) has donated $25,000 to the �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus to establish the Taiwan Entrepreneurs Society Taipei/Toronto (TESTT) Award. Starting this fall 2024, the new endowed award aims to support students enrolled in STEM Programs who demonstrate leadership within the Taiwanese community.

The TEST Toronto Charitable Foundation is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among Taiwanese communities in Taipei and Toronto. It serves as a bridge for business collaboration and networking, promoting economic growth and development across both regions. Their Foundation supports various educational and philanthropic initiatives to further empower and develop the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Their latest contribution underscores their commitment to empowering students and nurturing future leaders who are well-equipped to drive Markham’s dynamic economy and technological advancements. The TESTT award is designed to provide financial assistance and recognition, alleviating some of the financial burdens students may face while validating their dedication to academic excellence and community involvement.

To be eligible for the award, recipients must demonstrate leadership and involvement in the Taiwanese community locally or internationally and submit a personal statement outlining their qualifications. If there is no eligible recipient from Markham Campus, the award may be granted to a �첥��Ƶ student who fits the criteria. The award will be available through Student Financial Services.��

“This award not only nurtures the academic and personal growth of students but also contributes to the vibrant fabric of the Taiwanese and broader Markham & York Region communities. It enriches our community with the talents and leadership potential of future generations,” says Deputy Provost of Markham Campus, Dan Palermo.

TEST Toronto Charitable Foundation Chairman, Tim Chuang, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting education and leadership within the community at the TESTT High Tea, Arts, Elegance event on May 6, 2024. “This award will inspire and assist students in achieving their academic and personal goals,” says Chuang. 

“The Taiwan Entrepreneur Society Taipei Toronto Charitable Foundation is honoured to partner with �첥��Ƶ’s Markham Campus for this new award. This initiative will provide invaluable support to young Taiwanese students and significantly contribute to the advancement of technology development in Markham. Our commitment to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs is unwavering, and we are proud to play a role in enhancing the vibrancy and growth of our community,” says the TEST Toronto Charitable Foundation Chair.

�첥��Ƶ Markham Campus is grateful to the TEST Toronto Charitable Foundation for their generosity and commitment to education and community development. The Taiwan Entrepreneurs Society Taipei/Toronto Award will undoubtedly play a crucial role in supporting the next generation of leaders in STEM.

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�첥��Ƶ’s Markham Campus opened its doors to the Markham community for its highly anticipated official open house. The event invited the local community to experience the state-of-the-art building and the facilities that make the campus a hub for technology, education, and collaboration.  &�Բ�����;

 
The event, which took place on Saturday, November 16, included guided tours where guests explored high-tech features and flexible layouts – designed to accommodate different teaching methods – a live painting by Colin Arthur, as well as a special appearance by Mayor Frank Scarpitti, the Mayor of Markham. &�Բ�����;
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In addition to the academic classrooms, visitors had the opportunity to view creative spaces within the Markham Campus Library. Equipped with avant-garde tools and technology such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and more, the Library Makerspace empowers students to design and create. &�Բ�����;
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The Library’s Gaming and Visualization Space offered a glimpse into the future of digital learning, equipped with virtual reality headsets, a visualization wall, and gaming consoles and software. The Making and Media Creation Lab is a site for learning, research and creation that offers audio and video recording, as well as editing equipment.  &�Բ�����;
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Visitors were introduced to the Experiential Education Hub, a space dedicated to connecting students with real-world opportunities through co-op, work-integrated, internship programs and experiential learning opportunities.  &�Բ�����;
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The open house also featured Tentacular Futures: Creative Technologies at the �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus exhibition in the Art Gallery on the first floor. Curated by Rebecca Caines and Marissa Largo, the showcase features the award-winning interactive art and technology of Megan Smith and Gao Yujie, The Remotions (with special guests Erin Goodpipe and Elder Lorna Standingready), Jane Tingley, Hector Centeno Garcia, Nava Messas Waxman, Vladimir Kanic, Sara Mozafari Lorestani. &�Բ�����;
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The Markham Campus was designed to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. The open house emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and residents. As �첥��Ƶ continues to expand its footprint in the region, the Markham Campus is poised to be a key player in driving local innovation, workforce development, and educational access. &�Բ�����;
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As �첥��Ƶ Markham Campus continues to grow and evolve, the open house was just the beginning of many exciting opportunities for students and the surrounding community. With its blend of academic rigor, cutting-edge technology, and focus on community engagement, the Markham Campus is setting a new standard for higher education in the York Region. &�Բ�����;
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For those who missed the open house, there are still plenty of ways to get involved. For more information on programs, events, and admissions at the Markham Campus, visit, yorku.ca/markham. &�Բ�����;

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The day was devoted to onboarding new partners, recognizing, and honouring the contributions of current partners, and fostering a collaborative environment where best practices could be shared, and innovative ideas could flourish.  

Second-year Digital Technologies student, Eamon Ryan, served as the MC and the day commenced with opening remarks from Dan Palermo, Interim Deputy Provost, who extended heartfelt thanks to the employer partners, students, staff, and faculty. Palermo emphasized the integral role that these stakeholders play in the success of Canada’s first fully work-integrated Digital Technologies program where students dedicate 80% of their time to their employer, and 20% to study. 

He then introduced Jane Goodyer, Dean of Lassonde, as the visionary behind the DT program. Having launched New Zealand’s first-degree apprenticeship in 2019, Goodyer has now brought her expertise to Canada. Goodyer spoke about her vision for the program’s future and the importance of employer collaboration.  Her leadership and dedication have been crucial in shaping the program’s success and continuing to push its boundaries. 

The event featured an orientation session for employers, as well as a student panel and an employer panel, which offered a platform to share valuable insights. The student panel provided a glimpse into their experiences and successes, illustrating how the program has empowered them to achieve their goals. Meanwhile, the employer panel allowed partners to discuss strategies for helping students attain and sustain success throughout their program tenure.  
 
Both panels facilitated a rich exchange of ideas and practical advice, further strengthening the ties between students and their current and future employers. 

�첥��Ƶ Markham Campus and the Lassonde School of Engineering is sincerely grateful to Alstom, IBM, CoLab Software, BMO, Shopify, NGF, Dayforce, Softchoice, HTS, Quanser, and Ontario Power Generation.   
 
Their support and collaboration are vital in ensuring the continued excellence and impact of the Digital Technologies program. The event was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a stepping stone toward future innovations and successes in the ever-evolving field of digital technology. 

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To kick off the momentous occasion, the University hosted two festive events at the Markham Campus to welcome students and their families. The events featured a special appearance by Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, and president and vice-chancellor, Rhonda Lenton.  ��
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The celebrations began with the Family and Friends Welcome Day, a special day dedicated to the families and friends of incoming students, on August 31. Attendees were invited to network, explore the new campus, and participate in learning sessions. ��
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This event doubled as an��opportunity to discover the brand-new��state-of-the-art facilities and connect with both on-campus and local partners, offering a preview of the place where the student’s academic journey will unfold. ��
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On September 3, incoming undergraduate students attended the Undergraduate Academic Orientation, where they connected with peers, familiarized themselves with their academic programs, and explored on-campus services and support. The orientation included meetings with faculty, an overview of academic policies, and insights into resources designed to enhance their learning experience.��
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To wrap up the week of welcome, President and Vice-Chancellor, Rhonda Lenton and Markham mayor, Frank Scarpitti were present on September 4, the official first day of classes, to greet the inaugural class, take selfies, provide refreshments and a branded giveaway to students.��
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This appearance symbolized the strong partnership between �첥��Ƶ’s Markham Campus and the City of Markham. To mark this special occasion, �첥��Ƶ's Interim Deputy Provost of Markham, Dan Palermo was also present. “To our students—thank you for choosing us. As the first full cohort to embrace this campus, you are pioneering and paving the way for future generations to come to the Markham Campus,” said Interim Deputy Provost, Dan Palermo. “You are the trailblazers who will shape the legacy of our university through your contribution to the vibrant culture and academic excellence we strive to cultivate. We are thrilled to have you here and we look forward to the promising possibilities that await you.”��

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This donation is designated to create an endowed bursary to benefit first-year undergraduate students in a technology or entrepreneurship-based program at �첥��Ƶ, Markham Campus.�� Known as Canada’s High-Tech Capital, Markham is a dynamic hub of innovation and technological advancement, hosting a significant concentration of tech-driven enterprises. By establishing this bursary, AWIN Group of Dealerships is not only providing critical financial support to students and expanding educational opportunities but also bolstering the region’s focus on this critical sector and nurturing the next generation of technology leaders. ��
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“We’re proud to join forces with �첥��Ƶ in this meaningful mission and can’t wait to see the ‘Dr. Sylvester & Pauline Chuang Bursary’ lasting effects on student lives and community well-being,” says the corporation.����

AWIN Group of Dealerships is an automotive group in the Greater Toronto Area that represents Acura, Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ferrari, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Subaru, Volkswagen and Volvo. The company is driven by a passion for creating positive change and enabling individuals to realize their full potential.  

“Our commitment to supporting the Markham Campus through the Dr. Sylvester & Pauline Chuang Bursary reflects our unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. We are confident that this investment will not only benefit students but also contribute to the long-term prosperity of the community."  

�첥��Ƶ’s Markham Campus is deeply grateful to AWIN Group for their commitment to education and their belief in the potential of every student. This bursary exemplifies the values of innovation and community support, fostering the potential of every student and strengthening our shared mission to develop future leaders in these critical fields. 

Slated to open this Fall, the Markham Campus will offer innovative programs under the Liberal Arts & Professional Studies; Arts, Media Performance & Design; Lassonde School of Engineering; and Science faculties. 
 
Students enrolled in our Financial Technologies, Creative Technologies, and Digital Technologies programs will have the opportunity to prepare for technology-related careers while applying creativity and entrepreneurship to address real-world problems. 
 
We extend our sincerest thanks to AWIN Group for their profound generosity and vision. Amazing things happen when diverse communities come together to tackle world issues. 

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The Markham Campus team donated to the Holiday Toy Drive and gifted all the Construction Workers, Trade Staff, Stuart Olsen Site Staff, and Consultants with branded Markham Campus toques, coffee, hot chocolate, and muffins. While this effort may seem like a small gesture, it goes a long way in showing their efforts are recognized and valued.   

Markham Campus is set to be a hub for technology, innovation and entrepreneurship learning, and the construction workers are integral in making this vision a reality. Such acts of appreciation contribute to building a sense of community and mutual respect among this diverse group of individuals working towards a common goal; one �첥��Ƶ with multi-campuses.�� Overall, the Markham Campus team hopes this small but meaningful gesture has a big impact in showing everyone involved that their hard work is greatly appreciated.������

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