Scott Mabury
Professor, Environmental Chemistry
Vice-President, University Operations
University of Toronto

Some of you might know that I have a farm east of the city in Northumberland County that provides some balance to the hurly-burly life here at UofT in the City of Toronto. A significant component of life as a crop farmer, even a part-time one, is the optimism that comes from decisions to invest in soil health now that will yield longer term increases in crop yields. I practice conservation tillage, no-till planting, long crop rotations, incorporation of cover crops, and compost amendments to build organic matter in my fields that directly enhances the bio-diversity of the soil ecosystem. A more robust soil results in a farm that is more productive and resilient. Harvest results this year were mixed: a strong corn crop approaching 200 bu/acre but my adzuki beans were a total loss due to quality issues – I will try again next year.

I view the United Way Campaign in a similar vein – invest now for a better future – as exemplified by the generous contributions from faculty, staff, and students, such as the special lunch at New College that took place earlier this month, ongoing employee payroll deductions, the ever-popular ‘Swap Shop’ at Facilities & Services, and this Thursday’s Day of Giving—where we have arranged for proceeds from coffee sales at select locations to be donated to the United Way.

The United Way of Greater Toronto invests our contributions to ensure the greatest impact for our community. Your donations help United Way support 143 agencies offering 242 programs in the Greater Toronto Area that address emerging issues and pressing needs in our region. More importantly, these programs move people from a place of need to one of hope and possibility.

I hope that you’ll join me and contribute what you can and help make 2019 a year of possibility for many across our region.

Donate online or by cheque to the United Way of Greater Toronto using this webpage.

If you have any questions, please contact the U of T United Way Team at unitedway@utoronto.ca.

Thank you,

Scott Mabury
Professor, Environmental Chemistry
Vice-President, University Operations
University of Toronto