The following message from Principal Patrick Deane was sent out to the Queen’s community – students, faculty, and staff – ahead of Homecoming this weekend.

Dear members of the Queen’s community,

This weekend will see the return of in-person Homecoming. Many alumni will be coming to our campus to enjoy the festivities and reunite with old friends. It is a weekend for celebration, and I hope that all who take part will do so safely and without incident. Our Advancement team and many partners across the university have planned events to help us mark the occasion. In a special effort to engage our local community, a Fall Harvest Festival has been planned for Saturday afternoon on Benidickson field. Food and beverages will be available along with music and activities for our local friends and families.

Last weekend Kingston, like many other university towns, found itself host to a Faux Homecoming. This week, the police, city and hospital released statements about the negative impact of the unsanctioned activities that took place. A number of students were hurt, some seriously, and the toll on our city, police, first responders and hospital was significant.

We continue to work with our partners to address problems caused by large gatherings and dangerous behaviour, but in the first instance it is important that everyone be thoughtful about the impact that uncontrolled behaviour can have on ourselves and others, even where no harm is intended. Please enjoy your Homecoming weekend but do so with the health and safety of yourself and our community in mind.

Patrick Deane,
Principal and Vice-Chancellor