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Chair’s Welcome Message

September 2, 2025

Time to read: 2 minutes

Welcome to all new and returning students in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies (DGES), from 1st year undergraduates to senior graduates!  My name is Murray Richardson, and I am the current Chair of DGES. You can find me most days in B352 Loeb building, near the main departmental office. 

As a former student and now a seasoned university faculty member, the beginning of September brings a familiar feeling of anticipation and renewal that I will always associate with the Fall and the beginning of another year of learning and teaching. As a student, it was mostly a nervous feeling.  Nowadays, I feel a mix of excitement and gratitude for being part of such a great department and university.  If you are more nervous than excited, then please come and talk to us; we (faculty and staff) are here to help and support you!  Be sure to attend your first week’s classes and meet your professors and peers. Consider joining a club, and check out what CUGESA has to offer here in DGES.  And please, don’t ever hesitate to reach out to your professors for help and advice throughout the semester.  I am confident that you will find them all highly approachable and eager to assist you.

Every fall, to kick things off, DGES hosts a Corn Boil. This year it will happen on Wednesday, September 10th, from 11 am to 1 pm, and you are all invited to socialise and enjoy the finest local corn and apple cider money can buy. I hope to meet as many of you as possible there. Stay tuned for more details.

Murray Richardson (he/him)
Professor and Chair
Department of Geography and Environmental Studies