As of the academic year 2025–2026, Assistant Professor Gözde Mercan will serve as co-lead of the Global Languages Initiative (GLI) with Associate Professor Libbie (Elizabeth) Mills, Department for the Study of Religion. The Global Languages Initiative is a collaborative effort involving over 15 departments, programs, colleges, centres, and institutes at the University of Toronto. NMC, with its wide range of languages, both modern and ancient, continues to be proudly represented among the many language programs participating in GLI.
The Global Languages Initiative is a collaborative effort involving over 15 departments, programs, colleges, centres, and institutes at the University of Toronto. GLI expands access to additional language instruction, including Indigenous, foreign, official, and ancient languages, while promoting intercultural competence, global fluency, and the revitalization of lesser-taught and Indigenous languages.
GLI organizes a variety of events to engage students, faculty, and the wider community. These include the annual Language Career Panels and the well-attended Language and Culture Days, which are popular with students and help bring visibility to the U of T’s many language programs. Past events have also featured workshops and a symposium on language revitalization, identity, and community well-being. More information about the initiative and its activities can be found on the GLI website.
Congratulations to Professor Mercan!