TMU President Lachemi receives Order of Ontario
President Lachemi was nominated for the Order of Ontario following several expansive undertakings including the development of the new law school and medical school, the university’s renaming and his leadership throughout the pandemic.
Toronto Metropolitan University President Mohamed Lachemi has received the Order of Ontario. The honour was bestowed upon him by Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont at a special ceremony on November 27.
Lachemi, who has presided over TMU since April 2016, says the award is a testament to the incredible work of the entire university community.
“This honour reflects well on all of TMU and our efforts to advance many noble causes in society,” he said. “This is a proud accomplishment of the whole community.”
Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, is seen receiving the Order of Ontario at a recent ceremony.
The Order of Ontario recognizes exceptional leaders from all walks of life and diverse fields of endeavour, whose impact and lasting legacy have played an important role in building a stronger province, country and world.
Lachemi was nominated following many notable achievements at TMU during his presidency, including the development of new, innovative schools in law and medicine, his remarkable leadership throughout the pandemic, the university's recent renaming, and his on-going commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
This recognition is also a reflection of the values that have driven him to become a well-respected leader: initiative, empathy, resilience and the determination to make the best of every opportunity.
Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, says receiving the Order of Ontario is a testament to the entire TMU community in building a stronger province, country and world. (Video: Toronto Metropolitan University/YouTube)
Challenging the status quo
Looking back at the university’s many recent accomplishments, Lachemi praises TMU’s ability to challenge the status quo “in every endeavour”.
He also praises the trust that the university has fostered with the surrounding community, which has helped strengthen its place as a world-class institution.
“It’s something to be quite proud of,” he said.
Trust is also something he’s thankful for in terms of his relationship with community members at the university.
“When your community trusts you, you will not only give 100 per cent, you will give 200 per cent – because you want to give back that trust,” he said.
Noting that TMU is equipping young people with the leadership skills they will need for tomorrow, he says, “I’m confident that with what students are learning here at the university, they will be our future leaders. I won’t be surprised if some of our students receive this honour one day.”
When asked for advice he might give to students, he says, “Never stop dreaming, and stay positive about the future.”
Lastly, Lachemi thanks his family, who are a big part of his success.
“Without their support, I wouldn’t be able to give the time and effort that I have to our TMU community,” he said.
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