Daily News

Posted on June 19: New book chronicles career of modern-day McMaster architect

Harry Thode, former McMaster University president and international scientist, was responsible for transforming McMaster University into the student-centred research-intensive institution it is today. A new book from McMaster University Press chronicles the life of this remarkable man, who served as the University's president from 1961 to 1972. Under Thode's leadership, McMaster became, nationally and internationally, a major centre of scholarship and research. Today, most of the approximately 1,000 McMaster faculty members, located in six strong faculties, are engaged in research and scholarship that both inform their educational work and help extend the frontiers of their disciplines. As well, McMaster students reap the benefits of learning from some of the country's finest researchers and educators. Modern McMaster is both a creator and preserver of knowledge.

Posted on June 19: McMaster to erect 50-foot challenge leadership course

McMaster's Board of Governors approved the installation of a $123,000 Alpine Tower High Challenge Leadership Course, the latest development in challenge courses. "What this is, is a first in Canada for a university," said Planning and Building Committee chair Donald Green. "It is something very new and different for us." The 50-foot tall climbing structure will be designed to present the same challenges as rock climbing and high ropes course elements. The ALTITUDE team-building and leadership program of the Department of Athletics and Recreation would make extensive use of the course. The preferred location for the course is the north-west corner of the '10-acre' playfield. The site will use about 27,600-square-feet tucked into an area deemed as 'recreational' and in the 'athletic precinct' of the Campus Plan. It will be financed through the Student Services Project fund.

Posted on June 19: McMaster on target for double cohort

McMaster has fulfilled its commitment to taking its share of students within the double cohort. High school students had until this past Monday to accept university offers and the Ontario University Application Centre has now finalized the numbers for this fall. At McMaster, 4,770 high school graduates have accepted first-year places, the University's enrolment target agreement with the province was 4,330 students. The target is based on a student count as of Nov. 1, 2003. McMaster's overall enrolment target for first-year this fall is 5,100 and registrar, George Granger says once you take the usual attrition rate into account he expects the University to be close to that number. Across the province close to 72,000 students have accepted offers to university. The government had made a commitment to provide 70,000 student spaces. Eighty-one percent of applicants accepted an admission offer from one of their top three choices.

Posted on June 18: Graduate students recognized for leadership, athleticism

Graduate student leadership and athleticism was recognized at an awards celebration Tuesday. Hosted by the 2002 Graduate Student Association Executive, the inaugural event honoured athletic, human and leadership achievements of students from all faculties, programs and departments. It celebrated more than 100 students, recognized by their peers for outstanding contributions to civic and human values while pursuing graduate research. "I want to extend my personal thanks and congratulations to all the graduate students who contribute their time and talents to varsity athletics, intramural recreation, university governance, and student leadership activities," expressed McMaster President Peter George. "I commend you on your tremendous achievements in supporting and representing McMaster during the 2002-2003 school year. It was a year of brilliant successes . . . Despite the pressures of study and preparation for career, you have continued to participate at the highest level and, in many cases, have taken leadership positions in your sport, our university and community as well." For a list of the award recipients, click here.