Donette Chin-Loy Chang (Journalism ’78) took up her post as the new chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) last fall. A communications leader, prolific philanthropist, proud alumna, Chin-Loy Chang has supported hundreds of students by funding scholarships and initiatives.
What drew you to the chancellor role and what are you hoping to accomplish during your tenure at TMU?
TMU is my alma mater, so to be chancellor makes this special for me. I hope to be the ambassador who helps to build and rebuild bridges and to engage new partners and communities. I'd like to assist the leadership in carrying out the powerful vision of the university, while maintaining our shared values of reconciliation, diversity, equity and community inclusion—the values for which TMU is renowned.
Your background spans sectors from journalism to relief work. How will it influence your approach to building bridges?
My journalism education at TMU gave me confidence and helped me hone my skills as a communicator. It armed me to be ‘ready on day one in the wider world.’ Essentially, I am able to put people at ease, to listen to their stories with no judgment and to be compassionate. Many years ago, the vision that my late husband G. Raymond Chang (chancellor emeritus of TMU) and I had was about community—I’ve continued that work.
It helps also that my heritage is from several worlds. I’m Jamaican born; of multi-racial heritage. When I look at my philanthropy, with the BlackNorth initiative, Food for the Poor Canada, Onyx Initiative, or my work within TMU on the Anti-Asian Racism Taskforce and the Renaming Committee, these initiatives have all been around justice. Together we have reached out to a broader community helping to create more alliances and building bridges.
How do you hope to ensure that TMU students are set up for success in their future careers?
Students are number one. TMU’s leadership is building on the university’s extraordinary foundation to give students and faculty the tools for learning and teaching. Paramount is the mental and physical health of students, so we support them and understand their needs as with the Student Wellbeing Centre.
I know many students are struggling in many ways—because I ask about them all the time. But at the end of the day, I would like them to know that we have their back and they will pull through. I would like them to understand that great leadership comprises intellect, integrity and above all, kindness, fairness and compassion.
Fast facts
Do you start your day with tea or coffee?
Neither, I’m uncaffeinated! I start my day with a glass of warm lemon water.
What's your go-to comfort food?
Potato chips – Miss Vickie's Original.
How do you unwind after a busy week?
Movies or reading. I am a CrossFit fanatic – my personal record on a sumo deadlift is 183 lbs. Love long walks and of course hot yoga in 110F especially in fall and winter.
What's one book that you think everyone should read?
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, or anything from Malcolm Galdwell
