Inaugural Society & Impact Luncheon tackles Canada’s housing crisis

Leaders from academia, community and government are sharing their perspectives in a new discussion series focused on translating research into real-world impact.

McMaster’s Society & Impact Luncheon series brings together academic and community leaders who are actively mobilizing evidence-based research to create positive change in the lives of people nationally and globally, says Sukhvinder Obhi, Associate Vice-President, Research (Society & Impact).

“This discussion series is designed to foster dialogue and collaboration amongst individuals and groups who are applying academic research to solve pressing societal challenges. Audiences will have a chance to hear about the incredible work our researchers and community partners are leading across faculties, fields and communities, and take part in the conversation,” he says.

The first Society & Impact Luncheon centered on Canada’s housing crisis. Panelists included Jim Dunn, Professor of Health, Aging & Society, and leaders from the City of Hamilton, Angela Kays Burden (General Manager, Community Services) and Justin Lewis (Director, Housing Secretariat). Cynthia Belaskie, Managing Director of the Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative, moderated the discussion.

With the need for affordable housing on the rise in Canada, the panelists discussed how their research findings and work in the housing sector can be mobilized to advance new programs and initiatives that support Canadians’ complex housing needs.

The next Society & Impact Luncheon – taking place April 15 – will explore the evolving role universities play as agents of positive social and economic change, particularly through digital social intrapreneurship – innovation led by academic leaders across the disciplines.

Guest speaker Dr. Benson Honig (DeGroote School of Business) will discuss his in-depth case-study of an international virtual incubator, unveiling a unique model of academic intrapreneurship that integrates research, entrepreneurship, digitization, and social responsibility to help researchers mobilize their work in local and global communities.

Students, staff, faculty and community members are welcome to attend.

Register here.