Inside Western – a news digest for staff and faculty

Nov. 7, 2025

Ivey tops ranking for research impact

A photo of Ivey Business School

Ivey Business School (Photo source: Western Communications)

Ivey Business School ranked first in Canada and 25th globally in the Financial Times latest assessment of high-impact business research. The rankings highlight Ivey’s growing influence in shaping business decisions through research that informs leaders and policymakers.

Prof honoured by American Mathematical Society

A photo of Ján Mináč

Ján Mináč (Photo source: Keri Ferguson/Western Communications)

Mathematics professor Ján Mináč has been named to the American Mathematical Society’s Class of 2026 Fellows, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field. A leading expert in Galois theory, Mináč is known across campus and beyond for his award-winning research, dynamic teaching and collaborative spirit that continues to inspire colleagues and students alike.

Western joins global virus network

A photo of Preclinical imaging specialist Amanda Hamilton

Preclinical imaging specialist Amanda Hamilton (Photo source: Megan Morris/Schulich Medicine & Dentistry)

Western is the first Canadian university to join the Global Virus Network (GVN), linking its researchers with international experts to strengthen preparedness for viral outbreaks. The new Pathogen Research Centre, expected to open in 2027, will become one of the GVN’s Centers of Excellence. The centre will unite scientists, containment labs and vaccine development teams to advance global health and protect communities.

Also covered by: Academica’s Top Ten

Student uncovers poison books at Western

a photo of books

Ninety-six poison books have been identified as part of an undergraduate summer research internship with Western Libraries. (Photo source: Christopher Kindratsky/Western Communications)

Karen Wen, a third-year English major in the School for Advanced Studies in the Arts and Humanities, identified 19th-century books in Western Libraries containing arsenic-based pigments once used in bookbinding. With support from librarian Deborah Meert-Williston and English and writing studies professor M.J. Kidnie, she explored how to balance the academic and historical value of the books with safety for those who use them.

Also covered by: CBC London

The Impact Project 

Explore how the Western community is collectively contributing to meaningful change in the world, today.

photo of Marlene Begatto

Marlene Bagatto (Photo source: Steven Anderson/Western Communications)

Marlene Bagatto: How to support children who have early hearing loss.

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Coming Up

Nov. 10 (noon to 1:30 p.m.)
Sharing Jewish life and values
Join PhD candidate Jennifer Shaw in this interactive employee workshop that delves into Jewish traditions, holidays and lived experiences. Register and learn more about this and other upcoming faith-based educational workshops. 

Nov. 10 to 14 (various times)
Global Entrepreneurship Week
Know a student with an entrepreneurial mindset? Encourage them to visit the Schmeichel Building for hands-on workshops, speakers and makerspace challenges taking place throughout the week.

Nov. 11 (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.) 
Remembrance Day 2025
Gather to honour those who served our country during times of war, conflict and peace at Western’s Remembrance Day ceremony, hosted by the University Students’ Council. McKellar Room, UCC. 

Nov. 13 (3 to 5 p.m.)
Reading and creative practice
Internationally acclaimed artist, writer and curator Ken Lum explores how literature and text inspire his creative process in this thought-provoking lecture. Register online.

Working at Western

a photo of campus

University College (Photo source: Steven Anderson/Western Communications)

Survey: Help shape Western Libraries
Take this five-minute survey to help Western Libraries better understand and respond to your needs for services and library space. By participating, you could win one of 15 prizes valued at $100 each. The survey is open until Nov. 10.

Climate and Sustainability Strategy town halls
Share your feedback on Western’s draft Climate and Sustainability Strategy. An in-person town hall will be held Tue., Nov. 18 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the McKellar Room, UCC and a virtual town hall will take place Fri., Nov. 21 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Budget planning process: Information sessions
Learn more about Western’s current budget planning process and participate in a Q&A. An in-person session will be held Wed., Nov. 19 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the McKellar Room, UCC and a virtual session will take place Thurs., Nov. 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Shawn Davis appointed university veterinarian
Shawn Davis has been appointed university veterinarian, effective Dec. 8. She will oversee Animal Care and Veterinary Services, supporting safe and ethical animal-based research at Western and affiliated hospitals. Read the announcement.

Photo of the Week

Staff member receiving a flu shot

Terry Rice, senior advisor in Western Human Resources, receives a flu shot from Dr. Sonya Malone, occupational health physician, during the annual flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinic in the Thames Hall Atrium on Oct. 31. The clinic continues Nov. 10 and 11. Learn more. (Photo source: Christopher Kindratsky/Western Communications)

two coffee cups near fair trade sign

Western in the News

In addition to the news above, your colleagues have been featured in the following media outlets.

A photo of Derek McLachlin

Derek McLachlin (Submitted photo)

CBC National’s The Moment
#TheMoment a professor turned an Ed Sheeran song into a chemistry lesson

Schulich Medicine & Dentistry professor Derek McLachlin found himself in the spotlight after TikToks of his lessons set to pop music garnered more than 4 million views. He also made appearances on CTV News and CTV Your Morning.

Washington Post
More students are double-majoring out of fear they won’t be able to get jobs

As more students in the U.S. commit to double majors, sociology professor Patrick Denice explains why it may be seen as a strategic way for students to stand out in an unpredictable job market.

CBC The National
Milan-Cortina Olympics facing construction questions 100 days out

With less than 100 days  until the start of the 2026 Winter Olympics, Angela Schneider, kinesiology professor and director of Western’s International Centre for Olympic Studies, explains some of the challenges with hosting a multi-venue event across a sprawling region.

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