Celebrating One Year of Sanctuary Scholars
On Wednesday, May 8th, TMU colleagues from areas across the University gathered at The Creative School Catalyst to celebrate the first year of the Sanctuary Scholars program recognizing the invaluable efforts of administration, faculty, and staff in making this access pathway a reality. The event saw attendees representing various departments across the university.
Attendees heard from the following speakers:
Dr. Melanie Panitch, Executive Director, Office of Social Innovation
Dr. Tanya (Toni) De Mello, Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion
Vernetta Avril, Former Sanctuary Scholar student, York University
Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic
Dr. Tanya Aberman, Sanctuary Scholars Coordinator, Office of Social Innovation
The remarks began with a lineup of prominent University figures. Dr. Melanie Panitch, Executive Director of the Office of Social Innovation, opened the event by emphasizing the collaborative efforts and commitment of the community in supporting students with precarious status. Dr. Tanya (Toni) De Mello, Vice-President of Equity and Community Inclusion, remarked, "There is nothing more transformative than the power of education." Although Vernetta Avril, a former Sanctuary Scholar student from York University, was unable to attend in person, she shared her inspiring journey through a recorded message, stating, "I am a testament to the change, and also to the importance of having such programs exist." Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic, underscored the program's holistic support, noting, "Access to education is not only about removing barriers and providing opportunities for students to get to university. It's also about supporting and encouraging them to succeed once they're here with us, so that they have a positive student experience and are able to flourish, learn, and graduate." Dr. Tanya Aberman, Sanctuary Scholars Coordinator, Office of Social Innovation, concluded the event's remarks, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure the program's success expressing “We work hard to continue to create a space that is safe and that is welcoming and that makes students feel like they belong at TMU. Our vision is, as has been mentioned, a university where students can excel regardless of their immigration status.”
Attendees also read the testimonials of many Sanctuary Scholars, which highlighted the program's profound impact. The event championed the belief that education, as a fundamental human right, should transcend barriers, welcoming all individuals regardless of their immigration status. Additionally, it highlighted the sentiment, that as noted in one student's testimonial, "We are more than our immigration status; we are resilient individuals who, like so many before us, seek a better life and a chance to contribute positively to the communities we now call home".
The event was a fantastic mix of brevity and warmth, featuring great food all adding to the warm, inclusive atmosphere. It showcased the current support systems in place while expressing a deep gratitude to all contributors. Overall, this vibrant celebration of the Sanctuary Scholars program highlighted its impact and the dedication of those involved in making the first year possible and a success.