Amanda Weaver is committed to being a transformative leader with a focus on education, understanding, and removing/addressing systemic barriers in the pursuit of authentic inclusion.
The School of Continuing Studies recently welcomed its first Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) to our SCS team.
A vital part of our commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible environment for our community of learners, instructors and staff, this inaugural role will be filled by Amanda Weaver, whose focus will be to embed EDI and Accessibility principles into everything we do, in collaboration with everyone at SCS, as well as the Executive Director, EDI for U of T, Divisional EDI Directors, and Office Directors for the Division of People Strategy, Equity and Culture.
Amanda’s career has been heavily focused on Human Resources, Respect in the Workplace, Human Rights, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, with experience working in multiple sectors, such as health care, manufacturing/construction, government services, policing, and now education. In all aspects of her life, she is a strong proponent of the importance of inclusive language, respect and dignity for all, understanding the layers of intersectionality, and for advocating and/or being an ally for those experiencing injustice or inequities in our communities and workplaces.
Amanda says she was raised with the influence and values of a large Francophone family in Northern Ontario/Quebec, and the importance of culture, tradition, heritage, connectedness, and inclusivity. Additionally, through the lens of a mother of a child with significant health challenges, developmental delays and special needs, Amanda advocates for inclusivity, equity, dignity, and human rights every day, for everyone. She is dedicated to being attuned to those with varied lived experiences and the importance of listening and storytelling.
A life devoted to effecting change and realizing authentic inclusion in our workplaces, educational institutions and communities is one that takes drive and resilience. Amanda is committed to being a transformative leader with a focus on education, understanding, and removing/addressing systemic barriers in the pursuit of authentic inclusion. Key priorities for Amanda as Director of EDI will involve education, curriculum enhancements with an EDI lens and the student/learner experience, strategic initiatives, data collection and analysis, community engagement, conflict/complaint resolution, and addressing anti-racism/discrimination commitments as noted in the University’s various reports related to Truth and Reconciliation, Anti-Racism and Discrimination, Accessibility, Workplace Culture, and more. For information related to U of T’s EDI learning opportunities and events, please visit the U of T EDI calendar site.
Amanda is committed to lifelong learning and to using her authenticity, integrity and passion to drive change, actively listen to others and provide a forum for all voices to be heard, and ensure everyone can attend work, school and/or community events as their authentic selves.
