The Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education hosted the inaugural Peter Donnelly Lecture in Sport Policy Studies on March 21, 2024.
Dr. Parissa Safai (School of Kinesiology and Health Science in the Faculty of Health Sciences, York University) delivered the keynote address, titled:
'Open Spaces and Social Good: Removing Obstacles to Sport and Physical Activity'.
The event celebrated Dr. Donnelly’s impact and legacy in the fields of public sociology, critical sport studies and policy development. The lecture explored current issues and challenges regarding public health, access to safe, inclusive physical activity, and the values of sport. It also considered Dr. Donnelly’s intellectual craftsmanship, commitment to advocacy, and push to offer solutions when considering the ongoing relationships between sport and health.
About the Dr. Peter Donnelly Lecture in Sport Policy Studies
This lectureship honours the contribution and legacy of Peter Donnelly, Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto. He is the founding Director of the Centre for Sport Policy Studies (1999 - 2021), and was a Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. The lecture aims to celebrate his legacy of teaching, contribution to the sociology of sport and commitment to social justice.