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Bi-weekly Update - December 8, 2023
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MePLUS Students Learn About Sustainable Chemistry
CCB's Dr. Kylie Luska and team graciously hosted a session for MePLUS students in November, delving into the captivating world of plastics and their life cycles. The focus was on understanding how chemistry can play a pivotal role in enhancing the sustainability of plastics.
During this engaging outreach event, students explored the intricate process of sorting plastics in recycling facilities, leveraging both density and fingerprints in infrared spectroscopy. Providing a hands-on experience, participants seized the opportunity to synthesize a bioplastic crafted from renewable resources. Finally, students critically evaluated the reaction conditions necessary to facilitate the breakdown of bioplastics, contributing to a deeper understanding of biodegradation and chemical recycling.
MePLUS is a 10 month-long free program that offers science workshops, mentorship, and personal and professional opportunities to youth from equity-deserving groups, including Black, Indigenous, and LatinX high school students in the Hamilton catchment and surrounding areas.
For those seeking additional information on the MePLUS initiative, please click here.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kalaichelvi Saravanamuttu and Aaron Parry, who have played instrumental roles in spearheading this crucial initiative.
A warm and appreciative thank you is also extended to Dr. Kylie Luska, Dr. Anthony Chibba, Heather Zelisko, Rebecca Turner, and all our dedicated students for their unwavering support, which proved pivotal in ensuring the success of this event. Indeed, it is the collective effort of our remarkable team that makes these collaborations possible.
We have included some photos from the weekend below.
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Yummy Thursday Baking Challenge Finale - Over $1,000 Raised!
The Yummy Thursday baking challenge has officially wrapped up and it was a rollercoaster of flavours and fundraising finesse.
In week three, the Goward group tantalized taste buds raising an impressive $225. Adding a sprinkle of creativity to their fundraising recipe, they even enticed donors with a fun team photo!
However, alas, the crown remained snugly atop the Saravanamuttu group's dessert dynasty that brought in $325.85 in week two of the challenge.
Facing the final week with determination, the Undergraduate Lab Staff group knew they had to pull out all the stops. With a baking blitz that left mouths watering, they raised a jaw-dropping $404.45. The Saravanamuttu group, already envisioning victory pizza, suddenly found their plans crumbling.
In the end, the UG Lab Staff group emerged as the ultimate baking champions, snatching the trophy from the reigning champs. A sweet victory indeed!
But the real winners? All of us! Together, these baking maestros conjured up a whopping $1,127.80 in support of our City Kidz holiday toy drive.
A massive thank you to all our baking teams and generous donors, and everyone who made this event happen. The office admin team is now gearing up for a toy-buying extravaganza, and we'll capture the final toy donation to share in a future update.
Thanks to everyone who joined forces in this flour-fueled fiesta. Your generosity and camaraderie have spread the ultimate holiday cheer!
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Magic of Molecules
CCB's enchanting annual Magic of Molecules show took place on December 2, 2023, drawing a crowd of more than 200 enthusiastic attendees!
A captivating hour-long spectacle of chemical reactions unfolded, leaving audiences of all ages, from children to family members, in awe. Applause and cheers echoed in appreciation of our show maestros.
Heartfelt gratitude goes to:
- Sarra Saiyed for orchestrating the event seamlessly,
- Rebecca Turner for her prep work and masterful emceeing,
- Dr. Anthony Chibba, Dr. Gillian Goward, and Undergraduate Students Erin Donahue-Boyle and Nicole Malette for their flawless execution of captivating demonstrations,
- And Heather Zelisko for her meticulous preparations and support.
The success of this magical experience was a collaborative effort, and we extend our deepest thanks to everyone who contributed tirelessly to making the Magic of Molecules show an unforgettable event.
Enjoy photos of the event below, and see you next year!
From left to right: Erin, Gillian, Nicole, Heather, Anthony, Rebecca, Sarra
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Annual "White Elephant" Lunch
This week, the CCB team came together for our much-anticipated annual festive White Elephant gift exchange. As the excitement and laughter filled the room, the game unfolded with a delightful blend of camaraderie and friendly competition. In the end, amidst the spirited exchanges, everyone emerged as a winner, leaving with a charming item to add a touch of joy to their holiday season.
We want to seize this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional staff, postdoctoral fellows, and dedicated faculty members. Throughout the year, their unwavering dedication and hard work have been the driving force behind the department's success in both research endeavours and academic programs. Their commitment ensures a remarkable experience for every student and member of our department, and we deeply appreciate the invaluable contributions they make to our shared journey of excellence.
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MCGSS & Department Holiday Event
In the spirit of collaboration, this year we're merging the MCGSS and departmental holiday meetings into one spectacular event. It's a rare chance for the entire department to come together and spread some holiday cheer.
The holiday event will take place on Wednesday, December 13th, 2023 starting at 5 p.m. at TwelvEighty Bar & Grill located in the basement of the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC).
Our sincere gratitude goes to Mr. Mokhamed Ranne and MCGSS for their collaboration, dedication, and meticulous planning, making this event possible. For those who've ever orchestrated an event, the intricate dance of logistics to ensure the maximum number of attendees can participate is a formidable challenge.
Thanks to the generosity of our departmental donors, we are able to extend financial support to MCGSS ensuring the provision of complimentary meals for attendees.
The event will showcase an "Ugly Sweater" contest, with a spirited challenge to surpass last year's reigning champion, Bob Berno. Brace yourselves for a festive fashion face-off!
We thank everyone who has RSVP'd to the event and look forward to creating lasting memories together.
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Faculty & Staff Department Retreat
The annual department retreat will take place on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 12 to 4 p.m. at The Waterfront Banquet & Conference Centre. This gathering promises an engaging exploration of our undergraduate programs through collaborative discussions and activities, expertly facilitated by Miss Christine Costa. We look forward to seeing our many faculty and staff at this year's retreat!
An image of a previous department event |
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Upcoming Department Seminars
- January 11, 2024: Miriam Diamond from University of Toronto (1:30 p.m. in ABB 165)
- January 25, 2024: Gillian Goward from McMaster University (1:30 p.m. in ABB 165)
- February 8, 2024: Elisabeth Prince from University of Waterloo (1:30 p.m. in ABB 165)
For more information, keep an eye on your Inbox for the official seminar announcement which will include the abstract.
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CCB Donations Ensure Well-Stocked Community Fridge
As mentioned in our last newsletter, CCB raised an impressive $684.20 in support of the McMaster Community Fridge.
Dedicated EDI committee members and co-conveners, Grace Yao and Alison Xu, have been skillfully utilizing these funds to purchase nourishing food items, ensuring consistent weekly deliveries to the fridge.
CCB's generous donation even garnered a shout-out on Instagram, spreading the word about our commitment to community support.
Thank you everyone for making a real difference!
Photo taken from "@mcmastercommunityfridge" Instagram story
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Employment Equity Census Now Live
The Employment Equity Census is an important tool that helps us to better understand our workforce composition, measure progress, and inform our continuous efforts towards inclusive excellence at McMaster.
The Disaggregate Employment Equity Census is now live and can be completed by all faculty and staff (including interim and student employees) in Mosaic, under Employee Self-Service.
For more information including FAQs click here or learn more about McMaster’s commitment to Employment Equity. Thank you in advance for helping us build an inclusive community, together.
As outlined in the FAQ noted above, Census information is carefully protected and the data collected is reported in anonymized aggregate form only, unless otherwise stated, to maintain the privacy of respondents. Individual responses are not shared with hiring managers or supervisors, and access is restricted to designated individuals with responsibility for employment equity reporting.
A message from:
McMaster Human Resources Team
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Reporting Winter Hazards
During winter’s wet and icy conditions, pavement can be slippery, even for Mac the Marauder, so check out the below winter safety tips as you get ready for the weather ahead.
- Wear footwear with proper treads.
- Stay on clear pathways and take short steps.
- Avoid distractions.
- Don’t rush - allow for more time to get to where you’re going.
You will notice bins of ice-melter located across campus for community use. Help us melt the ice by spreading it on icy pavement if you see slippery conditions.
Facilities crew will be out, bright and early, throughout the winter months to help keep pathways safe and clear.
To report icy pavement, unclear pathways or other winter hazards, please click here.
Let's work together to stay safe this winter!
A message from:
Parking Services in partnership with Facility Services, University Health and Safety, and McMaster Marauders
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Undergraduate Student Nomination Opportunity:
President’s Award of Excellence in Student Leadership
The McMaster community is invited to nominate an undergraduate student for the President’s Award of Excellence in Student Leadership. The deadline date for the submission of nominations is March 11, 2024.
This annual award recognizes undergraduate students that have demonstrated a commitment to the University’s belief in excellence in its student body. For more information on the award or to obtain a nomination form please click here.
If you have any questions regarding this award, please contact Nancy Marcos, marcosn@mcmaster.ca.
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2024 MPS Calendars Available
It’s been a long-standing tradition for MPS to design and distribute a free calendar as a thank you to the McMaster Community.
Please email mps@mcmaster.ca and provide your campus delivery address or drop by T34 during our normal hours of operation to pick up a copy.
A message from:
Philip Poelmans, Director, Media Production Services
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New Information Security Training Available
McMaster’s Information Security department has rolled out a new asynchronous virtual training module that takes only one hour to complete.
This course will help you:
- Prevent online scams
- Improve ability to recognize and respond to new threats, like email phishing and smishing (SMS phishing)
- Enhance understanding of personal data protection and privacy.
Click here for more information.
A message from:
McMaster Information Security
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MSU Application Based Awards
The MSU Macademics’ team is excited to announce that the application-based awards are open! This year, there are 6 application-based awards:
- MSU Award of Distinction
- Teaching Assistant of the Year Award
- Innovation Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Merit Award
- Community Engagement Award
All application packages must be sent to tac@msu.mcmaster.ca by February 19th, 2024.
If there are any questions, concerns or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact tac@msu.mcmaster.ca.
A message from:
Keshvi Bhatt and Eshaal Zia, Teaching Awards Co-Coordinators
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