SSH News: CIBC report responses, volunteer at the World Social Science Forum, and the Royal Society of Canada names new fellows and award winners

Blog
September 6, 2013

Last week saw the release of a report from CIBC about the current state of employment prospects for university graduates. Since then, discussions about the value of a university education have ramped up across the Canadian media, with many questioning the practicality of studying in disciplines associated with the liberal arts. In response, an article in the Globe and Mail suggests that universities should educate and employers should train, while another in the Huffington Post says we should blame unemployment on the job market, not universities. What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share them with us on Twitter or Facebook.

The World Social Science Forum is currently seeking volunteers! A minimum of 12 hours over two days will be required, and volunteers will have free access to attend the Forum after completing their first shift. Those interested in participating can find more information and forms here, and requests for assignment to specific panels will be accommodated whenever possible. The World Social Science Forum takes place October 13-15, 2013 in Montreal, Quebec.

The Royal Society of Canada has elected 84 new Fellows, as well as announced the recipients of nine medals and awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in several fields of research and scholarship. This year's new Fellows will be inducted to the academies of the RSC during the Induction and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2013, held in conjunction with the RSC’s AGM at the Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff, Alberta.

Also taking place at the RSC’s AGM this fall, the Federation and Brock University will host a Big Thinking lecture with Dr. Kevin Kee on November 15, 2013. In his lecture “Borders without Boundaries”, Kevin will discuss how technology can be harnessed to push the boundaries of teaching, bring the past to life, and foster academic-private sector partnerships. Dr. Kee is the Canada Research Chair for Digital Humanities at Brock University.