Message from Dean Julia O'Sullivan

I am deeply committed to creating a dynamic relationship between OISE and its alumni, and so proud to learn of the accomplishments of our alumni like those recently honoured by The Learning Partnership as Canada’s Outstanding Principals for 2012. This year, as well, OISE alumna Avis Glaze (EdD, M.Ed.) will receive an honorary degree from the University of Toronto. There are so many OISE alumni around the world each of whose accomplishments bring great pride to OISE and the University of Toronto.  I commend and thank them all for the differences they are making for peoples across the globe.

As we near the completion of the academic year, I am eager to update you on the initiatives underway at OISE this year. First, a milestone has been achieved in OISE’s history: On February 16, 2012 the University of Toronto Governing Council approved a new four-department structure for OISE. With programs grouped under four distinct yet interrelated areas of scholarship within the broader field of educational studies, OISE’s new departments will be comprehensive, with each contributing to both graduate and undergraduate programs, B.Ed. and research.

All twelve of our graduate programs have been reviewed under the new University of Toronto Quality Assurance Process (UTQAP). The outcomes of the reviews, along with the Strategic Plan, will feed into OISE’s new academic plan, enrolment management strategy and complement plan for the next five years.

I also wish to share more exciting news: OISE recently entered into a historic partnership with Shanghai Normal University (SHNU). On March 20, a memorandum of understanding was signed by me and Professor Minxuan Zhang, President of SHNU. I trust that this agreement will benefit all involved, students, teachers and faculty in Shanghai and Toronto.

I really enjoyed meeting so many alumni at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) reception in Vancouver on April 14th. I look forward to meeting many more of you at the following two upcoming events. The OISE Alumni Association Executive Committee members are working hard this year to bring you the 2012 Spring Reunion Brunch on Saturday, June 2, 2012. The Association is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year on October 19 – 20, 2012 so mark your calendars and come out and join us. I look forward to seeing many of you at these events.

Most importantly don’t forget to stay in touch!

Julia O’Sullivan

For more information on Julia O'Sullivan click here