Education has the power to open doors, create opportunities and strengthen communities. As president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, Mohamed Lachemi has spent the past decade helping to expand access to higher education while championing student success.
In this episode, Lachemi reflects on his journey from international student to university president and discusses how philanthropy, community partnerships and a commitment to inclusion have helped shape major initiatives at TMU, including the School of Medicine, the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, the Nadir Mohamed Centre for Student Wellbeing and new student housing.
About Mohamed Lachemi
Mohamed Lachemi is the president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University. He has served in the role since 2016, previously holding positions as TMU’s provost and vice-president, academic, and as a professor in the Department of Civil Engineering. During his presidency, the university has expanded major research initiatives, launched the TMU School of Medicine, and strengthened partnerships with alumni, donors and community organizations.
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Episode highlights
03:15 - Investing in students is investing in Canada
TMU serves a student population that reflects the diversity of the GTA, including many first-generation university students and newcomers to Canada. Lachemi argues that supporting these students through philanthropy ultimately benefits everyone: “My answer has been always: ‘Actually, this is to support our country.’”
06:02 - Creating a sense of belonging
For Lachemi, student success begins with making people feel seen and supported. He explains that universities must be “deliberately inclusive” and recognize that different communities have different needs, requiring more than a one-size-fits-all approach.
12:30 - Scholarships inspire a culture of giving
Having relied on scholarships throughout his own academic career, Lachemi understands firsthand how financial support can change a person’s future. He shares how those experiences inspired initiatives like the PACE program and shaped his belief that “giving is not just an act, it’s actually a value.”
15:24 - Building institutions around community needs
From the TMU School of Medicine to the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, Lachemi explains how the university’s most significant initiatives have been shaped through consultation with communities. By listening to local needs and partnering with donors, TMU has created programs focused on healthcare, access, justice and wellbeing.
26:40 - Supporting the next generation of changemakers
As he reflects on his last decade at the helm of TMU, Lachemi encourages alumni, donors and community partners to continue investing in higher education. He believes that universities play a critical role in preparing future leaders. “When talented people are successful, they will bring solutions to all of us.”
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To learn more about giving opportunities and community impact at Toronto Metropolitan University, visit torontomu.ca/giving.
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