Seneca Polytechnic and the York Regional Police (YRP) have solidified a strengthened partnership aimed at shaping the future of police education in Ontario. The two institutions signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 2, 2025, expanding their collaborative efforts to include curriculum development, hands-on learning, and financial support for students.
Enhancing Police Foundations Education
The renewed agreement focuses on integrating real-world policing expertise into Seneca's academic programs. Under the MoU, York Regional Police will play a direct role in shaping the Police Foundations curriculum. This involvement will take several forms, including providing experiential learning opportunities for students, developing joint training initiatives, collaborating on research projects, and offering guest lectures from serving officers.
"Today’s announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Seneca and the YRP, built on our decades of partnership, shared values and our common goal of strengthening our communities through learning and service," said David Agnew, President of Seneca Polytechnic. He emphasized that the memorandum creates more avenues for students to learn from professionals and prepare for careers in public safety.
$10,000 Scholarship for Women in Policing
A cornerstone of the expanded partnership is a significant financial commitment. York Regional Police is donating $10,000 to Seneca to establish a new scholarship fund. This fund is specifically designed to support female students enrolled in the Police Foundations program who are pursuing careers in policing.
The scholarship also serves a commemorative purpose, marking the 50-year anniversary of the first female officer joining the York Regional Police. This initiative underscores a shared commitment to diversity and encouraging more women to enter the field of law enforcement.
A Shared Vision for Community Safety
Chief Jim MacSween of the York Regional Police highlighted the force's pride in collaborating with Seneca. "YRP will continue to support opportunities which allow students to further their learning," MacSween stated. "We are excited to be part of this process, to provide real-world experience and expertise to students... Through this new partnership, we hope to inspire a new generation to consider a career in policing."
The enhanced partnership reflects Seneca Polytechnic's ongoing mission to blend academic theory with practical, career-focused experience. It ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but are also prepared to make immediate, meaningful contributions to their communities and the evolving field of public safety.
