The Professional and International Programs Office is delighted to announce Wenzhe Xu (she/her) as the new Program Coordinator for Diversity and Inclusion. Wenzhe brings with her expertise in the delivery of cohort programming for diverse student populations, facilitating workshops and developing resources for students, as well as supporting experiential learning practices. In her recent role as Programming Coordinator and SUDS Officer at the Data Sciences Institute, she facilitated summer research programs and organized fellowship programs to support multi/interdisciplinary training. She has experience identifying evidence-based best practices and we look forward to her insights in this new role.
Wenzhe describes her personal experiences with international opportunities as inspiring. During her undergraduate degree, she participated in the Hong Kong Summer Abroad program and completed a Summer Field Course in Cancun. Growing up as a Cantonese who came to Toronto as an international student during high school, she didn't have the chance to experience university life close to home, and was curious about it. The Hong Kong Summer Abroad program provided her with an opportunity to embrace different learning cultures and perspectives. Wenzhe says she is “incredibly grateful for the abundant opportunities available to students to explore and learn abroad, fostering a sense of global citizenship and nurturing a passion for intercultural exchange.” When asked about her favourite memory from the Hong Kong Summer Abroad program, Wenzhe explains that “there was a 2-day field trip to Macau. The ferry ride from Hong Kong to Macau provided breathtaking views. Our professor brought us to a famous local Portuguese restaurant (the chicken dish was nice!). The trip was a perfect blend of exploration, new experiences, and gastronomic delights, showcasing the cultural diversity and history of Macau.”
Wenzhe completed her Master of Education in Higher Education with OISE and has an undergraduate degree in Physiology and Statistics from U of T. In addition, Wenzhe co-authored the “International Students: Stories and Strategies for Academic Success in Postsecondary Education” Pressbook with Student Life and eCampusOntario. In terms of supporting diversity and inclusion, Wenzhe believes that the best ideas and most impactful decisions to unlock full potential invariably emerge from teams where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. When asked what she is most looking forward to about this role, Wenzhe says “this role allows me to combine my passion for intercultural exchange with my dedication to creating an inclusive space where everyone feels welcomed and valued. Supporting and guiding students to get involved in life-changing international experiences fills me with immense joy. I am looking forward to the incredible journey of discovery as we unravel the secrets and wonders of education from around the globe!”
Connect with Wenzhe Xu, Program Coordinator for Diversity and Inclusion at summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca.