Nov. 14, 2025
After the First World War, veterans who had lost limbs formed associations such as the Amputation Club in B.C., seen here in 1918, to advocate for disabled veterans. (Photo source: Stuart Thomson Fonds/City of Vancouver Archives)
Schulich historian in residence and history postdoctoral researcher Eric Story revisits the 1923 trek of two Canadian war amputees who hiked from Calgary to Ottawa to raise awareness of the challenges faced by disabled veterans. Their remarkable journey stands as one of Canada’s earliest acts of disability rights advocacy.
Also covered by: CBC As It Happens, CBC Thunder Bay and CBC Superior Morning
Sydney Burns and Julia Piskunowicz (Photo source: Sam Ingold)
With support from the Morrissette Institute for Entrepreneurship, students Sydney Burns and Julia Piskunowicz are using innovation to care for horses. Through their company StableInsights, the co-founders created a smart blanket that monitors a horse’s temperature and heart rate in real time.
Also covered by: Horse Sport
(Photo source: Megan Morris/Schulich Medicine & Dentistry)
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and its health-care partners in London are pushing for more locally led, grant-funded clinical trials to address health issues that matter most to Canadians. The initiative aims to expand access to innovative treatments and strengthen the city’s role as a national hub for collaborative, evidence-based medical research.
(L to R) Kinesiology master's students Antonio Mendes and Denait Haile, PhD candidate Nasimi Guluzade and professor Matthew Heath (Photo source: Western Communications)
A team of researchers led by kinesiology professor Matthew Heath discovered briefly reducing oxygen levels in a controlled setting boosts executive function – much like the brain benefits of exercise. Their study offers new possibilities for people who can’t exercise due to illness or injury.
The Impact Project
Explore how the Western community is collectively contributing to meaningful change in the world, today.
Victoria Esses (Photo source: Steven Anderson/Western Communications)
Victoria Esses: How to create welcoming communities for immigrants.
Coming Up
Nov. 16 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Fall Preview Day
Know someone preparing to start their university journey? Invite them to explore campus on Nov. 16 and take part in guided tours, information sessions and a services fair.
Nov. 17 (12:15 to 1 p.m.)
Mindful Mondays at McIntosh Gallery
Join facilitator Benjamin Tran for a free guided mindfulness experience and discover how mindfulness and art can support personal wellness.
Nov. 17 to 21
International Week
Take part in events and activities celebrating diversity, intercultural learning and global experiences that enrich our campus. From storytelling to cultural performances, International Week offers opportunities to learn, connect and have fun.
Nov. 18 (2:30 to 4 p.m.)
Town hall: Climate and Sustainability Strategy
Share your feedback on Western’s draft Climate and Sustainability Strategy during the in-person town hall in the McKellar Room, UCC. A virtual town hall will take place Nov. 21.
Nov. 19 (10 to 11 a.m.)
Information session: Western’s budget planning
Learn more about Western’s new two-year budget cycle at an in-person session on the 2026–27 budget planning process in the McKeller Room, UCC. A virtual session will follow on Nov. 27.
Nov. 20 to 23
Opera at Western: Così fan tutte
Experience Mozart’s timeless comedy of love, loyalty and disguise in this captivating production filled with humour, romance and delightful twists. Visit the Don Wright Faculty of Music website to purchase tickets.
Working at Western
University College (Photo source: Western Communications)
Report snow-related hazards
With the cold weather upon us, paths and stairs may become icy and snow-covered. Report slippery and inaccessible areas to ext. 83304 or fmhelp@uwo.ca with building name, exit/entrance number or description, the hazard and a photo when possible.
Pension plan education and consultations
Fall is a great time to review your Western Pension Plan. Visit the pension workshop webpage to explore upcoming sessions or book an in-person consultation with Sun Life while consultants are on campus.
Survey reminder: Help shape Western
Libraries
Take five minutes to share your feedback on library spaces and services to help shape future improvements. By participating, you could win one of 15 prizes valued at $100 each. The survey is open until Nov. 16.
Photo of the Week
Western turned into a winter wonderland this week as fall met winter, with golden leaves still clinging to the trees amid the first big snowfall of the season. (Photo source: Lauren Lee/Office of the Registrar)
Western in the News
In addition to the news above, your colleagues have been featured in the following media outlets.
Christy Bressette (Photo source: Candace Maracle/CBC)
CBC Indigenous
Thunderbird eggs returned to their 'nest' at Kettle and Stony Point First Nation
Christy Bressette, vice-provost and associate vice-president (Indigenous Initiatives), explains the rematriation of two large stone spheres, also known as kettles, which hold cultural significance to the Anishinaabek. The spheres were returned home to Kettle and Stony Point First Nation last week.
The Guardian
Waiting for the tsunami: Tofino’s big waves are loved by surfers – but this Canadian town is braced for disaster
Earth sciences professor Katsu Goda discusses his work on tsunami preparedness in places like Tofino, B.C. and explains why accurate modelling remains a challenge.
The Food Chain on BBC World Service
Turmeric: The golden spice
Schulich professor Dr. Amit Garg explains his research on curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, which he demonstrated had no impact on kidney health.
