THREAD: The challenges emanating from the #COVID19 pandemic have driven unprecedented levels of collaboration amongst universities, gov and industry. Together, we’re pushing harder than ever to support our communities. https://nationalpost.com/opinion/battling-covid-19-universities-partner-with-industry-government-to-combat-the-pandemic

At #OntarioTech, we’re creating new manufacturing processes (rapid design and prototyping) to help in the production of much-needed ventilators and face shields to help in the fight against #COVID19 https://twitter.com/DrStevenMurphy/status/1243182221747421184?s=20

Gone is the disconnected ivory tower. What it means to be a university in 2020 is becoming increasingly different from only a generation ago. For an institution (the academy) so steeped in tradition, this is radical change. #OntarioTech is a prime example.

Day after day we break down the stereotypes of stuffy post-secondary lecture halls, dusty textbooks and layers of theory. We work in high-tech labs, utilize tech in the classroom and online and solve real-world problems. We're guided by 4 essential priorities. #OntarioTech

1) #Techwithaconscience: improving the lives of humans and the planet through the ethical application of innovation and technology. For e.g.: study by @LMalloy is examining how parents are talking to their children about the #COVIDpandemic.

Another e.g.: @JanetteMHughes and her research team in the @steam3Dmakerlab are helping teachers prepare for what might be coming by launching a variety of teaching and learning sessions using the Google Meet video-conferencing platform.

2) Partnerships: In under a week #OntarioTech developed PPE prototypes, utilizing Health Canada-approved design. We continue to work closely with orgs such as @OPG and the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association and its members to produce face masks & shields.

3) Learning reimagined: When all in-person classes were cancelled, #OntarioTech paused only for a day to pivot and transfer all course-work online, enabling students to continue the semester and keep plans for graduation and beyond in place.

4) Sticky campus: We’re finding new ways to connect, stay connected & take care of our campus community from a distance. Physical distancing has forced people to stay indoors, but our student services for academic, mental health and many others continue online in record numbers.

Physical distancing didn’t stop #OntarioTech's Open House, was transformed into a digital, interactive Virtual Open House feat. video tours, live Google Meet presentations & chats with faculty, admissions officers, athletic teams and student ambassadors.

Engaged uni's like #OntarioTech will not only address immediate needs to ensure student success, they’ll also help the greater community cope with the new realities society faces. Universities are an essential fabric in a dynamic and competitive Canada.