Liwei Liao

I am a second-year PhD student in the Educational Leadership and Policy program at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. My academic journey has been dedicated to integrating theoretical research with practical applications, particularly in education. I founded the Canadian Association for Revitalization of Inclusive Society (CARIS), a federally registered NGO. Furthermore, I initiated the award-winning Mental Health Revitalization (MHR) program during my time at OISE, reflecting my ongoing commitment to promoting inclusive and equitable quality education, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4.

My research interests encompass international comparisons of intergenerational mobility in urban education, Canadian immigration and pluralism, and multiculturalism in educational policy. These areas underscore my dedication to exploring equity and diversity within education systems and policy frameworks, resonating with Sustainable Development Goal 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have gained practical experience through roles such as Metrics Management Assistant at the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society, Social Service and Public Health Analyst at the Urban Data Centre, and Research Impact Analyst at the Acceleration Consortium. These positions have honed my skills in data analysis, project management, and research impact assessment, contributing to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 11.

Beyond academia, my past role as an ONTransfer Data Coordinator at the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT) involved managing transfer data and providing analysis to support the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities. This work aimed to remove systematic barriers to learner mobility, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4's objective of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

I am deeply committed to fostering inclusive and equitable governance at the University of Toronto. My extensive experience in research, community engagement, and public service has honed my ability to advocate for policies that reflect diverse perspectives and address systemic barriers. As a current tribunal member of the Office of Appeals, Discipline and Faculty Grievances (ADFG), I aim to bring my unique insights as a doctoral student and a dedicated researcher to contribute effectively to the university's integrity and strategic decision-making process, thereby supporting the realization of multiple Sustainable Development Goals.