Ryerson University’s Board of Governors unanimously approved a motion to rename its institution “Toronto Metropolitan University” effective immediately.
“Our new name Toronto Metropolitan University embodies so many things about our university, our community, our students, faculty, staff and alumni. Located in the heart of our country’s biggest and most diverse city – we represent all that it is to be metropolitan,” says Mohamed Lachemi, President and Vice-Chancellor, Toronto Metropolitan University.
According to a statement released by the University on April 26, the new name defines the institution’s aspirations to expand its reach such as its new Lincoln Alexander School of Law in Toronto, and plans for a future School of Medicine in Brampton.
The new name is the culmination of work carried out over several years. Following the Board of Governors accepting all 22 recommendations put forward by the Standing Strong (Mash Koh Wee Kah Pooh Win) Task Force, the university established a framework for the renaming process, which included the formation of the University Renaming Advisory Committee (URAC).
“I cannot think of a better name for our university. I am so grateful to the University Renaming Advisory Committee for their dedication and determination in finding a name that will unify us for decades to come. I also want to acknowledge all of our community members who have long advocated for change, and to all of you who provided ideas and perspectives to the University Renaming Advisory Committee – you have helped to make this day possible,” says Lachemi.
URAC oversaw extensive community consultations that generated responses from over 30,000 people and went on to review over 2,600 potential names. The committee produced a shortlist of names that were subject to several practical parameters, says the University.
The release further states that the university’s mission, vision and visual identity will remain in place to maintain continuity, recognizability and ease the transition to a new name.
“I cannot think of a better name than Toronto Metropolitan University,” said Lachemi. “Metropolitan is a reflection of who we have always been – an urban institution dedicated to excellence, innovation, and inclusion and who we aim to be – a place where all feel welcome, seen, represented and celebrated.”
For more information, visit: https://www.ryerson.ca/news-events/news/2022/04/a-new-name-for-our-institution/