News

Joint news release with the Government of Yukon, Mitacs, Yukon University and the University of Alberta North

A unique opportunity to participate in COVID-19 research internships will benefit both Yukon organizations and post-secondary students.

Starting immediately, Yukon businesses, not-for profit organizations and municipalities can apply to be matched with post-secondary students who will research COVID-19’s impact on their operations and help develop plans to overcome those challenges. In return, students will gain high-quality work experience in the field of applied research.

WHITEHORSE, YT— Yukon University has provided more details to new, prospective and returning credit program students about the Fall semester and created a new student support initiative, Connect2YukonU

In a letter posted online and emailed today to students from Dr. Janet Welch, vice president Academic and Student Services, the University reiterated that teaching and learning for the Fall semester will take place primarily online.  

This was shared Friday in the internal, weekly YukonU newsletter. More reflection from Karen can be found in this Whitehorse Star article, also published Friday.

Well here it is – my last day at Yukon University. (Or, as a few people still say YukonCollege-slash-YukonUniversity which makes me smile.)

The natural inclination is to try to capture all of the great memories – and there are so many! But of course memories are so personal, often such tiny moments in time – and impossible to recreate. So I will share a few highlights instead – hoping they will resonate with some of you as they reflect moments over the past nine years. Moments of joy, of unexpected generosity, of unfettered fun, of immense pride, of humility and admittedly – sometimes frustration (but not too often). Here’s just a few….

WHITEHORSE, YT—Sheila Silva has joined Yukon University as director of Finance.

Silva was previously chief financial officer with the Northwest Territories Health & Social Services Authority. She also brings federal government experience from her time with Indigenous Services Canada, Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and the Public Service Commission. 

“Sheila brings a wealth of experience in public-sector accounting and establishing financial policies and procedures. This background, together with her love of the North and commitment to cooperative leadership, make Sheila an outstanding addition to our YukonU team,” said Maggie Matear, vice-president University Services.  

WHITEHORSE, YT— Yukon University has launched a four-year research program to explore the revegetation of northern mine sites with native plants. In partnership with the University of Alberta, researchers will work with Yukoners to understand their vision of mine restoration and develop revegetation techniques to support this vision. 

Yukon University recognizes that prejudice, discrimination and violence are the reality for Black, Indigenous and racially minoritized people in Canada. We stand unified in the recognition that changes to systemic practices that discriminate, must begin to be made. We commit to working with faculty and staff to articulate a path forward for Yukon University.  We recognize that there is no defined road map to proceed; but together we must determine actions that accelerate the required change. We will determine a path that will combat systemic racism and work to unveil and undo unconscious bias.   

This work will begin once the new President, Mike DeGagné arrives in early July. Please join us on this journey of growth and change. 

 

Board of Governors Chair, David Morrison

Outgoing President, Dr. Karen Barnes

Incoming President, Dr. Mike DeGagné

WHITEHORSE, YT— Yukon University’s Northern Energy Innovation (NEI) research program placed third in the IEEE Electrical and Computer Engineering Capstone Competition for its work on the Arviat Power System Impact Study in Nunavut. NEI is one of seven winners to be acknowledged for their exceptional contribution in the jurisdiction of Northern Alberta and all three territories. 

Online registration enables you to check course availability, select courses and register from the comfort of your personal computer.

As you register, the new online portal notifies you of pre- and co-requisite courses, schedule conflicts and tuition totals. When complete, you can print their class schedule. 

WHITEHORSE, YT—220 graduates from 32 certificate, diploma and degree programs make up the first graduating class of Yukon University, Canada’s first university north of 60°.

The YukonU class of 2020 includes 55 students graduating with honours, and the first graduates from the Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Governance, Community Education and Employment Support, Climate Change Policy, and Yukon First Nations Arts programs. Twenty-two students are graduating from the Practical Nurse and Health Care Assistant programs.

Given the challenges of celebrating in person this year, Yukon University is inviting graduates, their families, friends and the wider community to join a digital celebration to recognize and applaud the hard work, commitment and accomplishments of the class of 2020. Full details can be found at YukonU.ca/grad2020.

WHITEHORSE, YT—In anticipation of the continuation of many current COVID-19 restrictions, YukonU has rolled out a plan for the delivery of its credit programs, ensuring there is a path in place for every learner.  

WHITEHORSE, YT—Yukon University branded clothing and accessories are now available to purchase online from the YukonU Campus Store.

Tshirts, hoodies, hats, mugs, water bottles, bags, notebooks and USB flash drives adorned with the YukonU logo are available in various designs and colours.

Students and Employees are eligible for a special launch offer of 10% off YukonU products (with valid ID).