Township of King, Ont. (June 2, 2026) — York University and King Township signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designed to further enhance their collaboration, including economic growth initiatives and community engagement.
The MOU builds on the strength of the existing partnership between the Township and York by expanding and advancing shared initiatives and projects, research and innovation as well as fostering experiential learning and workforce professional development.
"York University is proud to deepen our partnership with King Township through this memorandum of understanding. Collaborations like this one are at the heart of who we are as an institution — connecting our students, faculty and researchers with the communities around us to create real, lasting impact,” says York University Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps. “Together, we look forward to advancing shared priorities in economic development, sustainability and experiential learning that will benefit both the King Township community and the next generation of York graduates.”
The collaboration includes developing community education and events, as well as coordinating capstone projects between the Township and York faculty and students for the benefit of both communities.
In addition, the partnership will promote sustainability and climate resilience through a variety of initiatives, special projects, as well as enhance joint education and community events to bolster shared interests.
“This Memorandum of Understanding marks an important milestone for King Township as we strengthen our partnership with York University. It reflects a simple but meaningful idea — when municipalities and academic institutions work together, we can better serve our residents and tackle complex challenges in new ways,” says Mayor Steve Pellegrini, King Township. “Through this partnership, we’re creating opportunities to apply research in practical ways, welcome students into meaningful, hands-on placements, and support the continued growth of our staff. By connecting York’s expertise with the needs of our growing community, we’re opening the door to collaboration that will benefit our residents, strengthen our workforce and support our local economy for years to come.”
The five-year MOU acts to not only formalize their long-standing and important relationship, but to allow it to flourish especially in priority areas with a commitment to excellence and community engagement.
About King Township
Lying in the heart of the Greater Toronto Area, King Township is located within York Region, one of the fastest growing and diverse economies in Canada. More than 60 percent of the Holland Marsh, also known as Ontario’s salad bowl, lies within King Township. Though predominantly rural, most of King Township’s 29,800 residents live in the communities of King City, Nobleton and Schomberg. Residents and visitors are drawn to King because of its rural lifestyle, village atmosphere and quality of life. For more information visit us at king.ca.
About York University
"York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change, and prepare our students for meaningful life and career paths. York's Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campus in Costa Rica offers students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs, while at the Markham Campus, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration are built into every program. York’s new School of Medicine, the first Canadian medical school to focus on community-based primary health-care education, will welcome its first cohort in September 2028. York was recently named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for the 14th consecutive year. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future."
To receive updates on King Township news, follow the official corporate social media channels on X and Facebook and Instagram, subscribe to the King eNewsletter or visit king.ca.
Media Contact(s):
Township of King
Carling Fee, Communications Specialist
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-4575 | Email: media@king.ca
York University
Sandra McLean, York University, sandramc@yorku.ca