For the second consecutive year, Brock’s efforts to help make the world a more equitable, sustainable and supportive place are being recognized in a global ranking of post-secondary institutions.

Released Thursday, June 1, the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings placed Brock in the top 300 of nearly 1,600 universities from 112 countries around the world that are working towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Based on efforts to meet SDGs, set by the UN to achieve a better and more sustainable world by 2030, the rankings explore the impact that a university can have, specifically looking at themes of poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.

Data provided by post-secondary institutions in the areas of research, stewardship, outreach and teaching are used to determine each university’s position.

Brock’s submission outlined initiatives in nine SDGs: Partnerships for the goals; climate action; responsible consumption and production; sustainable cities and communities; decent work and economic growth; affordable and clean energy; gender equality; quality education; and good health and well-being.

This is the second year Brock has ranked in the top 300, though the University did improve its rankings in the good health and well-being, and gender equality categories for 2023.

Among Brock’s highlighted efforts are its many initiatives supporting women in leadership, academics and sports, such as the Women in Leadership and Sport Helps Everyone Make Allies groups, and its student-focused mental health and wellness programs and services, which previously saw Brock ranked No. 1 for four consecutive years among all comprehensive universities in Canada for mental health supports in the annual Maclean’s University Rankings. The University was also recognized in the decent work and economic growth category for its designation as one of Hamilton-Niagara’s Top Employers for the fifth time, and for Brock’s Employment Equity and Respectful Work and Learning Environment policies, which support diversity and a positive culture in the workplace.

“Being in the top 20 per cent of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings is something Brock needs to be very proud of,” says Mary Quintana, Director of Asset Management and Utilities. “With nearly 1,600 institutions from 112 countries participating, this ranking demonstrates the result of Brock’s efforts towards sustainability.”

The THE Impact Rankings are “becoming increasingly relevant, and we’ll strive to improve our performance over time,” says Scott Johnstone, Brock’s Associate Vice-President of Infrastructure and Operations. “We’re doing well, but we’re actively working on new plans and strategies that will help us to do better in years to come.”