The enduring Queen’s spirit

We are certainly living in a remarkable time. Our lives have been altered in many important respects by the COVID-19 crisis, and this is especially true for our students and the conditions under which they must pursue their studies. In accordance with public health advice on managing the impact of the virus, we will be changing some of the ways in which we deliver our programs for the upcoming academic year. 

Despite these changes and the other challenging aspects of our current situation, however, I know the indomitable spirit of Queen’s will pervade our community and animate our students this Fall as in every previous year. This is because we are all committed to providing the same exceptional level of education, vibrant student experience, and supportive, sustaining community for which our university is well known. Our shared enthusiasm for innovation and creativity, our team spirit, and our ambition in pursuit of knowledge and a better world: while circumstances may be somewhat different, none of this will be dampened.

I have worked in the academy for more than 40 years and know that even in ordinary times every academic term is different, as new students bring new perspectives and approaches. Because the pandemic will in one way or another still be an influence in our lives, the Fall 2020 term will be unlike any other and it will be memorable, that is certain. But I am looking forward as usual to welcoming students to Queen’s and to enjoying once again the zeal and enthusiasm that they bring every September. And to our new students, let me say that we are excited and honoured to welcome you into the Queen’s family.

Patrick Deane
Principal and Vice-Chancellor