'Thank you and have a great summer': President Meric Gertler salutes U of T community

With summer upon us, University of Toronto President Meric Gertler is thanking the university community for rising to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We adapted, we perservered and we helped each other,” he said in a video message. “We’ve made major contributions to the global fight against the pandemic, and we’ve continued fulfilling our mission of learning, discovery and innovation in every field.”

He also noted the success of the country’s mass vaccination campaign, which continues to pick up speed. “The vaccine rollout against COVID-19 is making a huge difference,” he said. “Society is reopening, and friends and family are gathering once again.” 

Echoing a letter he wrote to the U of T community in March, President Gertler said the university is preparing for a gradual and safe return to its three campuses this fall.

“Health and safety will remain our top priority, and it will be so exciting for us to be together again in person,” he said. “I hope you have a great summer and I can’t wait to see you in September.”