As we begin a new academic year, I want to welcome each of you to McMaster. Whether you’re new to the university or returning to campus as a student, faculty or staff member, fall is always an exciting time at McMaster, filled with promise and possibility.

Our university is exceptional in many ways, and the diversity and vibrancy of our campus is an outstanding part of that. Each of us plays a crucial role in keeping McMaster inclusive and safe. I’m proud to belong to a university that values many views and perspectives, and together creates living, learning and working spaces that support and respect all members of our university community.

I’m also inspired by our students, faculty and staff, and by the transformational impact of their work. I want to share a few areas we’re focused on this year that will lead to even greater impact, locally and globally.

The wildfires that continue to burn across Canada are a stark reminder of the critical importance of taking action to combat climate change. McMaster is deeply committed to sustainability. Our researchers, students and staff are taking concrete steps to build a greener campus, working with Indigenous partners to protect the ecologically sensitive lands that surround McMaster, and finding solutions to help build a net-zero carbon future.

Canada is changing in profound ways few have predicted. We need skilled, knowledgeable and ethical leaders like never before. The new Wilson College for Leadership and Civic Engagement will launch over the next year, to educate the next generation of leaders who will work across the public and private sectors to build a positive, hopeful future for Canada and the world.

At McMaster, we’ve always taken our own path and that’s made us a strong and creative university. This pioneering spirit can be seen in our student and faculty entrepreneurs and innovators who are bringing their ideas to market to create a healthier, more just and more sustainable society. We will continue to strengthen McMaster’s innovation ecosystem to create even more entrepreneurial opportunities.

I want to thank all students, faculty and staff for making McMaster such an exceptional and welcoming place to learn and work. No matter what your role is at the university, each of you plays an important part in our campus community, and I’m deeply appreciative of your contributions.

Looking forward to seeing you on campus. Welcome back to Mac.

David Farrar
President and Vice-Chancellor