By M.N. Fields

York University is pleased to announce that Tim Lewis, assistant professor of business, will serve as the speaker for the 2026 Winter Commencement ceremony.

“Tim has given so much to the university over the years, through campus ministries, leading Soul Quest and as a highly-regarded professor,” said President Tim Westbrook. “One way we can honor him is by giving him this opportunity to be part of the graduation ceremony and share words of encouragement with our students as they step into the next phase of their lives.”

A 1984 graduate of York College, Lewis is currently in his 24th year of dedicated service to York University.

Lewis recognized a growing need for a Sports Management concentration in the business department and took the initiative to establish the program 14 years ago. He has continued to lead the program as a professor since 2012. Before transitioning to the classroom, Lewis served the campus community as York University's campus minister after moving here from Wichita in 2003.

Beyond his work on campus, Lewis has directed Soul Quest, York University's highly successful summer camp for teenagers, for the past 23 years. He has also served as an elder at Lifewalk Church for 13 years. Outside of his professional and ministry commitments, Lewis and his wife, Robin, recently celebrated 42 years of marriage.

York University invites the community to join in celebrating the 2026 Winter Commencement on Thursday, December 17, at 7 p.m. in the Bartholomew Performing Arts Center.