'Share joy with those that matter most': Holiday message from Principal Alexandra Gillespie

In her annual holiday message, Alexandra Gillespie, University of Toronto vice-president and principal of U of T Mississauga, congratulated the community for its significant achievements in 2025 and called for rest, renewal and moments of joy ahead of the New Year.

“Reflecting on this past year fills me with pride and gratitude for all we’ve accomplished together,” said Gillespie, noting 2025 saw U of T Mississauga launch new programs, make significant progress on constructing a new student residence building, host its third annual All-Nations Powwow and continue to build a strong and supportive community for students, faculty, staff and librarians.

Gillespie, a professor of medieval and renaissance literature in the department of English and drama, added 2025 also brought the appointment of Melanie Woodin as U of T’s 17th president.

She said her holiday wish for the community is simple: “Take time to rest, find moments of peace and share joy with those who matter most.”