In this engaging conversation, Sheldon Levy reflects on his extensive career in education, sharing insights on leadership, the importance of critical thinking, and the impact of mentorship. 

He discusses his journey from a lower middle-class background to becoming a prominent figure in Canadian education, emphasizing the significance of taking risks and building community. 

Throughout the dialogue, Levy highlights the lessons learned from influential figures in his life and the importance of staying fresh and open to new ideas in leadership roles.Sheldon Levy is a higher education leader and visionary with a passion for innovation, entrepreneurship and the digital economy. Sheldon has been an instrumental figure in Canada’s innovation ecosystem in the last decade, spearheading the creation of such organizations as Ryerson’s Digital Media Zone (DMZ), the Brookfield Institute for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, and Scale Up Ventures, Inc. 

As President and Vice-Chancellor of Ryerson University from 2005 to 2015, Sheldon drove the creation of the Digital Media Zone (DMZ), an early-stage incubator for student entrepreneurs which has since become an international success. He is also a founder and advisor to Ryerson Futures Inc., an accelerator that has exported the DMZ concept to such locations as Calgary and Mumbai. 

From 2015 to 2017 Sheldon served as Ontario’s Deputy Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development, where he helped prioritize innovation and entrepreneurship throughout Ontario’s postsecondary education and training system. In 2017 he became CEO of NEXT Canada, an organization that provides mentorship, education, networks and funding to Canada’s most promising entrepreneurs. 

Sheldon is also a Board of Directors of Baycrest Health Sciences.

Sheldon previously served as President of Oakville’s Sheridan College from 1997 to 2001, overseeing the growth of its renowned animation department during the early years of computer-generated imaging. Sheldon’s other prior positions have included Vice President Finance and Strategy, University of Ontario Institute of Technology; Vice President of Governmental and Institutional Relations, University of Toronto; and Vice President Institutional Affairs, York University. Sheldon recently received The Order of Canada.

Takeaways

• Sheldon Levy emphasizes the importance of taking the 'scary road' in career choices.
• He believes that staying fresh and open to new ideas is crucial for leaders.
• Levy highlights the need for universities to engage with their surrounding communities.
• He shares that critical thinking is essential in today's society.
• Levy learned the importance of knowing what you believe in during challenging times.
• He reflects on the impact of mentorship and influential figures in his life.
• Levy discusses the significance of effective communication in leadership.
• He believes that mistakes should be viewed as learning opportunities.
• Levy stresses the importance of differentiating between common mistakes and those that damage reputation.
• He encourages young people to be critical thinkers and open to diverse opinions.

Sound Bites

• "Take the scary road."
• "You have to stay fresh."
• "I was blessed by many people."

Chapters
00:00
Reflecting on a Shared Journey

03:27
Sheldon Levy's Career Path

15:10
The Impact of Education on Lives

17:59
A Day in the Life of a University President

22:28
Building Community Through Education

29:42
Navigating Controversy and Leadership

44:15
Lessons from Influential Figures

50:37
The Meaning of Purpose and Critical Thinking

Keywords
Sheldon Levy, education, leadership, entrepreneurship, critical thinking, innovation, communi