A Day to Celebrate
Today is a proud day for all of us at the University of Guelph, including our alumni around the world. Once again, we received top marks from our students in the annual Globe and Mail University Report Card. In fact, in several areas, our grades were the highest in the country, including overall student satisfaction, environmental commitment and food services.
Among the highlights, U of G was ranked No.1 in its division or tied for the top ranking in keys areas such as teaching, student services, buildings and facilities, and campus technology.
We also received an A+ for campus atmosphere and an A for overall quality of education, and our faculty received A's for subject knowledge, teaching quality and availability to students.
These kinds of accolades are worth their weight in gold as I advocate with government and friends to help them see that Guelph is and always has been — to quote the Globe and Mail — engaged in a "quiet revolution.”
Indeed, the marks are extremely gratifying. But what’s even more important is what they indicate: people are starting to understand what Guelph is all about, what sets us apart. Guelph’s student experience is unique, both individualistic and communal, and, above all, genuine. And our success is all due to the efforts of our faculty, students, staff and alumni.
Our faculty continue to amaze me with their dedication and commitment to ensuring the Guelph teaching experience is top quality. Their willingness to be accessible to students and directly engage them in learning is another thing that sets us apart. I am grateful that the Report Card results recognize their efforts.
Our staff were also cited in today’s Report Card, noted for their helpfulness and for providing top-notch services and equipment to our undergraduates. In particular, I want to recognize those who work in Food Services because the quality of our food was once again acknowledged with an “A” — a mark that definitely stood out among the C’s and D’s that dominated the rankings in this division.
Lastly, I want to thank all of our students who responded to the survey. The campus atmosphere that you rated an A+ is a direct result of your involvement and engagement. Guelph is known for being a place where students help other students and where everyone works together to ensure U of G is a place of comfort and safety and a source of pride.
I’ve said many times that Guelph is a wonderful place to work and learn, and it’s because of the people, our values and our sense of community. It’s very satisfying to have these distinguishing features recognized in the Report Card. Congratulations to all!
