News

This was shared Friday in the internal, weekly YukonU newsletter. More reflection from Karen can be found in this Whitehorse Star article, also published Friday.

Well here it is – my last day at Yukon University. (Or, as a few people still say YukonCollege-slash-YukonUniversity which makes me smile.)

The natural inclination is to try to capture all of the great memories – and there are so many! But of course memories are so personal, often such tiny moments in time – and impossible to recreate. So I will share a few highlights instead – hoping they will resonate with some of you as they reflect moments over the past nine years. Moments of joy, of unexpected generosity, of unfettered fun, of immense pride, of humility and admittedly – sometimes frustration (but not too often). Here’s just a few….

WHITEHORSE, YT— Yukon University has launched a four-year research program to explore the revegetation of northern mine sites with native plants. In partnership with the University of Alberta, researchers will work with Yukoners to understand their vision of mine restoration and develop revegetation techniques to support this vision. 

Yukon University recognizes that prejudice, discrimination and violence are the reality for Black, Indigenous and racially minoritized people in Canada. We stand unified in the recognition that changes to systemic practices that discriminate, must begin to be made. We commit to working with faculty and staff to articulate a path forward for Yukon University.  We recognize that there is no defined road map to proceed; but together we must determine actions that accelerate the required change. We will determine a path that will combat systemic racism and work to unveil and undo unconscious bias.   

This work will begin once the new President, Mike DeGagné arrives in early July. Please join us on this journey of growth and change. 

 

Board of Governors Chair, David Morrison

Outgoing President, Dr. Karen Barnes

Incoming President, Dr. Mike DeGagné

WHITEHORSE, YT— Yukon University’s Northern Energy Innovation (NEI) research program placed third in the IEEE Electrical and Computer Engineering Capstone Competition for its work on the Arviat Power System Impact Study in Nunavut. NEI is one of seven winners to be acknowledged for their exceptional contribution in the jurisdiction of Northern Alberta and all three territories. 

Online registration enables you to check course availability, select courses and register from the comfort of your personal computer.

As you register, the new online portal notifies you of pre- and co-requisite courses, schedule conflicts and tuition totals. When complete, you can print their class schedule. 

WHITEHORSE, YT—220 graduates from 32 certificate, diploma and degree programs make up the first graduating class of Yukon University, Canada’s first university north of 60°.

The YukonU class of 2020 includes 55 students graduating with honours, and the first graduates from the Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Governance, Community Education and Employment Support, Climate Change Policy, and Yukon First Nations Arts programs. Twenty-two students are graduating from the Practical Nurse and Health Care Assistant programs.

Given the challenges of celebrating in person this year, Yukon University is inviting graduates, their families, friends and the wider community to join a digital celebration to recognize and applaud the hard work, commitment and accomplishments of the class of 2020. Full details can be found at YukonU.ca/grad2020.

WHITEHORSE, YT—Yukon University branded clothing and accessories are now available to purchase online from the YukonU Campus Store.

Tshirts, hoodies, hats, mugs, water bottles, bags, notebooks and USB flash drives adorned with the YukonU logo are available in various designs and colours.

Students and Employees are eligible for a special launch offer of 10% off YukonU products (with valid ID).

WHITEHORSE, YT—Yukon now has a university and Canada has a university north of 60°.

Guided by Yukon communities and the 14 Yukon First Nations, Yukon University (YukonU) is grounded in reconciliation and the northern experience.

With over 50 degree, diploma, certificate, trades and university prep programs, YukonU will continue the tradition of northern-focused education, training and applied research established by Yukon College, while expanding opportunities for northerners.  

WHITEHORSE, YT—The Yukon University Foundation launched a new giving circle campaign today to mark #GivingTuesdayNOW.  

The SOS (Support Our Students) North giving circle campaign is raising funds to support students and recent graduates into the spring and summer with food security, increased access to the student Emergency Fund, as well as access to mental health and Elder on Campus supports via phone, email or video conference technology. 

“Normally, at this point in the school year students are leaving to take on summer jobs or start a new career. This year is unprecedented. For many, part-time work has ended due to the pandemic and summer employment is unavailable, leaving students unable to meet their basic needs,” said Wally Rude, Registrar and Dean of Enrolment Services.