You are now in the main content area

In fall 2020, President Lachemi established the Standing Strong Task Force to develop principles that guide commemoration at the university, and to respond to the history and legacy of Egerton Ryerson within the context of the university’s values. The  (PDF file) Standing Strong Task Force Report and Recommendations: Acknowledging the past, learning from the present, looking to the future, captures the work of the Task Force from November 2020 to August 2021, including an in-depth historical research project and a two-month community engagement period.

On August 26, 2021, the University’s Board of Governors committed to addressing all 22 recommendations from the Standing Strong Task Force to address the legacy of Egerton Ryerson and establish principles to guide commemoration across campus. This historic commitment to our future initiated our Next Chapter.

TMU values in action

In our Next Chapter efforts, the TMU values that are outlined in the university’s Strategic Vision serve as the compass for decision-making.

Unapologetically bold 
We are committed to finding agreement between our actions and our values. We will engage in difficult conversations and make difficult decisions.

Respectfully collaborative 
Leaders will collaborate with key stakeholders through formal and informal partnerships, community consultation and engagement and resource sharing to maximize impact.

Intentionally diverse and inclusive 
Intentional leadership and engagement within our processes will reflect our understanding of those who are most impacted by particular initiatives.

Champion of sustainability 
The university will make decisions that aim to balance our financial resources, human resources, and responsibility to the environment for a long-lasting impact.

Dedicated to excellence 
Behind all initiatives is a commitment to excellence. While some initiatives will happen sooner or seemingly faster than others, that is not an indicator of prioritization.

back shot of a student looking down on campus with CN tower in the background, with transparent shapes overlaid on top


Action plan 

The Next Chapter action plan provides a high-level overview of the progress and efforts across campus to respond to the 22 recommendations of the Standing Strong Task Force. The action plan is a living document that will adjust, strengthen, and respond to the evolving needs of our community over time.

New name

Names matter. They tell the world who we are and what we stand for. They communicate ideas, values and aspirations. They speak to the future even as they acknowledge the past. 

A new name offers an invitation to be more inclusive, to imagine novel ways of thinking and creating — to open ourselves to new possibilities.

a group of students having a conversation, with transparent shapes overlaid on top 

Aerial view of Daphne Cockwell Complex

Process

The Standing Strong Task Force introduced new ways of engaging with the community. From the university renaming to policy development to curriculum transformation, the processes that are guiding change are grounded in communication, community engagement and project leadership.

Questions?

Next Chapter work has introduced changes across campus as well as encouraged community members to learn more about how they can shape the future. Whether you want to know more about how we got to this chapter or you are interested in guiding your own learning about history, cultural practices, commemoration or reconciliation, numerous resources have been compiled to keep you informed and prepared.

a community member in conversation inside a zone space, with transparent shapes overlaid on top