This is my last Dean’s Corner as your Interim Dean of Students, and as my time in this role comes to an end, I've been reflecting on what I’ve learned from the experience.
Three-quarters of my time as Interim Dean was spent working remotely; I’ve certainly learned that agility and a willingness to embrace change are crucial to this role. Since mid-March, I have led two offices (the Office of the Dean of Students and the Office for Sexual Violence Response, Support and Education) from a small basement kitchen in my home which now serves as a workspace. With many of us experiencing remote work for the first time, both of these offices hardly missed a beat, continuing to serve you to the very best of our ability. I’m grateful to the wonderful staff working alongside me who made that possible.
I have also learned to appreciate and draw on my environment, and all the tools, resources, and connections it has to offer. In one sense, I’m referring to the natural world, which has energized and steadied me throughout this period of upheaval. But I'm referring, also, to the McGill environment, because I could not have performed my role without help from incredible campus partners like the Office of Student Life and Learning, Enrolment Services, Student Services, Legal Services, Campus Public Safety, the Faculties and their Student Affairs Offices, Student Housing, and the Office of the Provost. I appreciate the support these units provided during my tenure, and the great work they do for our community.
Although my role is changing, I’m not going anywhere. I’ll be returning to my post as Associate Dean of Students, and remaining part of the team responsible for student rights and responsibilities.
You’ll hear from Professor Robin Beech in next week’s Dean’s Corner, and I hope you’ll join me in welcoming him. I look forward to working with him to continue supporting McGill’s vibrant student body, and eagerly await the point when we can all come together on our campuses once again.