2020 Arbor Award Recipients

Maria Luisa Abrera-Farol

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Woodsworth College, 2009

Maria Luisa is a dedicated mentor to students in the Criminology and Sociolegal Studies program at Woodsworth. She has provided valuable career advice to students based on her industry experience and goes above and beyond, frequently giving students tours of facilities and organizing meetings with her colleagues in Correctional Services.

Sally AbuKlam

Doctor of Dental Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, 2014

Sally is an active member of the Faculty of Dentistry Alumni Association’s board of directors. She is also a dedicated mentor to many dentistry students, providing them with valuable advice on life after graduation.

Michelle Acorn

Master of Nursing, Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 2003

Michelle has been a mentor and guest speaker at many Bloomberg Nursing events, sharing her valuable industry insights and experiences. She is also a member of the Faculty’s 100th anniversary committee.

Susan (Anderson) Ainley

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 1974

Over her 13 years as an alumni volunteer, Susan has made many important contributions to Trinity College and to the University. She’s been a member of Trinity’s Board of Trustees, as well as other Trinity committees and U of T’s Boundless Campaign Cabinet.

Sharon Andria Allen

Master of Social Work, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, 2005

Andria is the president of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work Alumni Association, and a strong ambassador for the faculty. She has increased alumni engagement through her creative ideas and programs, which have brought alumni back to the faculty.

Andrew Alleyne

Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 2002

Andrew has been a council member of the Law Alumni Association for the past five years, and also serves as a mentor to U of T law students. He has also been very involved in the faculty’s Welcome Day activities.

Hugh Anson-Cartwright

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1952

Hugh is an antiquarian book dealer who has volunteered at Trinity’s John W. Graham Library and other U of T libraries since the 1970s, sharing his extensive expertise as well as his own gifts of scarce items.

Paul Barretto

Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 2017

Paul is a great champion of the Rotman School, particularly its Global Executive MBA, for which he volunteers as a Career and Recruitment Ambassador. In this role he shares his experience and connections and also keeps the school connected to opportunities within industry.

Renée Beach

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Victoria College, 2004
Post-Graduate Medical Training, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 2012

Renée mentors pre-med students, and has played a critical role in involving the Black Physicians’ Association of Ontario with faculty programs. She also led the recruitment of Black community members involved in BSAP (Black Student Application Program) in efforts to increase the number of Black applicants to the Faculty.

Carl Blanchaer

Carl serves on the University’s Design Review Committee, where he advocates for innovative approaches to campus architecture. At the Daniels Faculty, he shares his expertise as a guest critic, a mentor, and a bridge to the design professions and development community.

Nina Boric

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 2004
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 2007

Nina is a dedicated Trinity College volunteer—she is chair of the Executive of the Alumni Association, and serves as a member of several other bodies, including Trinity’s Board of Trustees and its Development Committee.

Savtaj Brar

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Innis College, 2001
Post-Graduate Medical Training, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 2013

Savtaj is an active mentor and volunteer with Innis College. He is also a highly engaged member of the college’s alumni community and has served as keynote speaker at the Innis College Student Awards Ceremony.

Wendy Brennan

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1976
Bachelor of Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 1978

Wendy is a dedicated member of the Friends of the John M. Kelly Library at St. Michael’s Collage and a key member of the team of volunteers that coordinates the Friends’ annual book sale.

Paul Brunberg

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2004

Over the years, Paul has been a dedicated member of the U of T Scarborough mentorship program, often taking on multiple mentees. He is also a frequent speaker at UTSC professional development sessions.

Diana Burchell

Master of Arts, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 2019

Diana is a dedicated volunteer with the OISE Alumni Association and chair of the Student Advisory Committee. Recently, she created OISE Caremongering, a Facebook group bringing the community together during the pandemic.

Donald M. Cameron

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1975
Master of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1976
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1979

Don has taught the Patent and Trade Secrets Law course at the Faculty of Law for over 25 years and surveys intellectual property courses at other law schools, to ensure that U of T’s intellectual property curriculum remains unmatched in Canada. Don has written widely on IP topics and has spoken frequently at the Faculty of Law’s annual Patent Colloquium since 2014.

Elaine A. Campbell

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1980

Elaine has been an active member of the Chem Eng Board of Advisors since 2013. She has contributed directly to the department’s Five-Year Strategic Plan, which is its central guiding document for academics, research and advancement initiatives. She has also hosted industry tables at the Chem Eng Annual Dinner and is a yearly sponsor of this important event.

Susan Christine Campisi

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1991
Master of Health Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1994
Doctor of Philosophy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 2020

As the volunteer awards officer with the Public Health Alumni Association, Susan has played a key role in professionalizing the nomination and awards process. She has also served as a board member, demonstrating her dedication to the school, its students and its alumni.

Johnny K. M. Chan

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Victoria College, 1994

Johnny is an extraordinarily dedicated and long-standing volunteer. He has been a founding director of the University of Toronto (Hong Kong) Foundation since 1996 and was Foundation Ball chairman in 1996. He also served as president of the University of Toronto Alumni Association (Hong Kong) from 1997-1999.

Cindy Chao

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Woodsworth College, 2009
Master of Environmental Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2010

Cindy was a mentor with the Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program at U of T Scarborough from 2013-2019, sharing her knowledge and experiences with her mentees as well as other members of the mentorship program community.

Alvin Chin

Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts & Science, 2009

Alvin served as the representative of the U of T Alumni Network of Beijing for two years (2013 - 2014) and has been the Chicago regional representative since 2016. He also serves as a reviewer for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.

Elaine Chin

Doctor of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1988
Post-Graduate Medical Training, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1989
Masters of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 1994

Elaine launched the Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s fundraising response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her efforts inspired new donors across Canada and raised more than $170,000 in just one week from almost 100 donors.

Claire Boo-Kyong Cho

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 2007

Claire has made a tremendous impact on the U of T alumni community in Korea. She served as vice-president of the local chapter of the U of T Alumni Association, and has remained a dedicated volunteer since stepping down last year.

Sean Everett Victor Chung

Bachelor of Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2003
Master of Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2005
Master of Science (Orthodontics), Faculty of Dentistry, 2013

Sean has been a member of the Dentistry Alumni Association’s board of directors for five years. He is also a regular seminar and clinical instructor in both the graduate Pediatric Dentistry and graduate Orthodontic departments. Combining these roles has helped him to be a mentor to many students, providing valuable advice on challenges faced by dental specialists early in their careers.

Beth Corcoran

Beth is Chair of the OISE Leaders and Legends Awards Committee. She has successfully led engaging programs and webinars for the OISE community. She has also served as president of the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Parents' Association.

James Courtney

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1966
Master of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1967
Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1971
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 1985

Jim has been an enthusiastic and committed volunteer for Engineering since 2014, and has served in various key roles with the Committee for Skule Lunch and Learn, Alumni Reunion and Faculty Council. He also served as a member of the Hart House 100th Anniversary Advisory Committee.

Asha Daniere

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Innis College, 1990

Asha has been a steady champion for Innis College. She has participated in the Principal’s Dinner and most recently served as a member of the campaign cabinet for the Innis expansion project.

Kallol Rinku DasGupta

Kallol is a leader, coach, mentor and friend of the hockey program at U of T Scarborough. He was instrumental in building the men’s program and has been responsible for hundreds of students enjoying the game of hockey at UTSC.

Michelle Davis

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 1998

Michelle has been instrumental in helping the Faculty of Arts & Science promote STEM education to marginalized communities. She also serves as a mentor to students as they plan their transition from university to career.

Rosa Del Campo

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 1987

Rosa is a tireless contributor to Rotman Commerce. She has mentored many Rotman Commerce students both formally and informally, and has served as a speaker and moderator at events promoting women in leadership.

Lauren Della Mora

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 2012
Master of Public Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 2015

Since her graduation in 2015, Lauren has been a valued member of the Public Health Alumni Association's board of directors and can be counted on for her thoughtful contributions to discussions and her creative problem-solving.

Tristan Downe-Dewdney

Tristan is a valued member of the Alumni-Students Mentorship Program at Woodsworth. He freely shares his experiences in government and gives his mentees practical advice on careers in politics and public policy.

Heather Dubbeldam

Heather was pivotal in establishing the Daniels Faculty's Student-Professionals Networking Event bringing together graduate students and industry leaders. She also serves as a guest critic to Design Studio reviews.

Michelle English

Master of Social Work, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, 2015

As a dedicated mentor in the Alumni Mentoring Program at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work (FIFSW), Michelle dedicates her time and industry expertise to connect graduating students with alumni in the field. She is also this year's recipient of the FIFSW Outstanding Alumni Mentor Award.

Frederyck Franco

Frederyck is an engaged and dedicated mentor to students in the Master of Professional Kinesiology Program. He has also supported their growth through professional learning opportunities and conferences.

Boris Freesman

Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1964

For 50 years, Boris has been the lead volunteer for the Class of ’64, annually planning their activities for the Faculty of Law Reunion, for an impressive total of 11 Reunions to date.

Li-Ping Geng

Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1990
Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1999

Li-Ping has been instrumental in connecting Victoria University with the Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU). He has arranged visits to China by VIC presidents and other senior officials and has coordinated meetings with senior Chinese university officials. He has helped exchange students from U of T and BFSU gain an understanding of their host culture and feel welcome at their host institution.

Jason Glover

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2003

Jason has served for many years as a board member of the U of T Scarborough Alumni Association, most recently as its president. He also served on UTSC Campus Council, Governing Council, the College of Electors, and participated in the UTSC Partners in Leadership Mentorship Program. He currently serves on the UTSC Hub Advisory Board.

Sandra Griffiths

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1989

Sandra is a longstanding mentor with the Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program and the Alumni Connections speed networking event at U of T Scarborough. She willingly takes on multiple mentees and regularly attends student networking events on campus.

Jim Hartley

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto at Scarborough, 1980

Jim has served as an alumni mentor for the Alumni Connections speed networking event and the Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program at U of T Scarborough since 2015. A former member of the UTSCAA, he is known for going above and beyond for his mentees, and can often be found in the UTSC Alumni Relations Office conducting mock interviews with students.

Julie He

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Woodsworth College, 2010
Master of Finance, Rotman School of Management, 2018

Julie is the current treasurer of the Woodsworth College Alumni Association, and has been an ambassador for the college’s annual fund campaign. She has also served as a mentor, always ensuring her mentees have a productive and meaningful experience.

Andrew Heal

Juris Doctor, Faculty of Law, 1988

Andrew has served as a council member for the Law Alumni Association and a volunteer on the Class of '88 reunion committee, helping to engage his classmates and raise participation at their reunion.

Susan E. Helwig

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 1969

Susan is a longtime volunteer with Innis’s Later Life Learning program. In addition, as chair of the Donations Committee, she has led an effort to raise funds for refugee and Indigenous students at the college.

Fidelia Ho

Juris Doctor, Faculty of Law, 2013

Fidelia has led the U of T fencing team to eight OUA provincial championships. Her attention to detail and compassion towards students’ needs has made a lasting contribution to the fencing program’s ongoing success.

Heather Hunter

Heather chairs the James Hunter Family ALS Initiative Advisory Committee and is also a member of the Tanz Centre Steering Committee. Heather has supported ALS research at the University since 2011, in partnership with, and memory of, her late husband. She has also inspired hundreds of others to support as well.

Stephen Hutchison

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Innis College, 2006
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 2007
Juris Doctor, Faculty of Law, 2011

Stephen has been a dedicated alumni mentor at Innis College since the inception of the mentorship program in 2014. His valuable insights have contributed significantly to the development of the program over the years.

Harold Isaacs

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Woodsworth College, 1996
Bachelor of Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 2000

Harold has been a dedicated mentor to New College students for many years, first as a teacher and now in his second career, as a dentist, where he offers opportunities for job shadowing at the clinic he owns with his wife.

Sriram Hariharan Iyer

Sriram has single-handedly increased engagement and recruitment for the Rotman School in India, beginning with his employer, the ICICI Bank and then more broadly with his strategies now being deployed with other Indian corporations.

James Janeiro

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Victoria College, 2010
Master of Public Policy, Faculty of Arts & Science, 2012

James has volunteered for more than 13 years at the University of Toronto Soldiers' Tower. As former chair of the Soldiers' Tower Committee, he organized many Remembrance Day services and other commemorative events to honour the wartime sacrifices of U of T faculty members, staff, students, and alumni.

Evie Jesin

Diploma in Dental Hygiene, Faculty of Dentistry, 1974
Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Woodsworth College, 1978

Evie has served on the board of directors of the Dentistry Alumni Association since 2011, mentoring students and helping the association produce engaging alumni events.

Matthew Jurczak

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 2009
Master of Health Science, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 2018

Matthew is a longtime volunteer with the University’s War Memorial. He shepherded the restoration of the historic building, the Service of Remembrance and other commemorative events during his tenure as past chair of the Soldiers’ Tower Committee.

John Kalm

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 1986

John has been a longstanding and committed alumni volunteer with his first engagement dating back to 2004. He has been a member of the New College Career Mentorship Program since 2014.

Carolyn Kay

Diploma in Dental Hygiene, Faculty of Dentistry, 1966
Master of Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 1994

Carolyn is an active member of the Dentistry Alumni Association’s board of directors. She has helped create many opportunities for alumni engagement, and provides valuable strategic advice to the Faculty.

William James Keel

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 1979
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1981
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1984

Bill has volunteered with the Trinity College Friends of the Library for 35 years. He is their longest-serving driver and he rarely says “no” to a request for a book pickup. Throughout the year he recovers and repairs worn and damaged rare books, prices the law and true crime and works in the rare book room almost daily during the sale.

Philip Klumak

For more than ten years, Philip has been volunteering with U of T’s Career Exploration and Education program as a Job Shadowing host. He has hosted dozens of students at his law practice, introducing them to the world of criminal law.

Kristina Koch

Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 2016

Since graduating in 2016 Kristina has been an active ambassador for the Rotman School, generously sharing her time with the career centre, student clubs and recruitment offices.

Alexander Kwong

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 2007

Alex has mentored countless students over the past nine years, and generously shared his time and expertise at numerous Rotman Commerce career and student group events.

Jacquie Labatt

Jacquie serves as chair of the Department of Psychiatry’s Campaign Cabinet. She spearheaded a $20-million gift to create the Labatt Family Network for Research on the Biology of Depression.

Michael Landa

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 2007

Michael has been a dedicated member of Rotman Commerce’s Alumni Mentorship Program for the past 13 years and is also a frequent industry keynote speaker at career events.

Dominic Laset

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 2012

Since 2013, Dominic has been an active mentor with the Rotman Commerce Alumni Mentorship Program. He is always ready to help students connect with employers, and is well known for his flexibility and adaptability.

Elizabeth Lee

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 2005
Master of Social Work, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, 2007

Elizabeth has been a valued member of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work’s Alumni Association for more than five years—keeping meticulous records and serving as its secretary for three years.

Kristina Leis

Master of Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 2017

Kristina has had many volunteer roles with the OISE Alumni Association including serving as an events volunteer, an alumni ambassador, a member of various committees and an alumni mentor with the OISE Mentorship Program.

Kam Lo

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1984

Since 2013 Kam has volunteered with U of T Scarborough Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program, frequently taking on two mentees simultaneously. She has also shared her industry experience as a speaker at UTSC’s Leader2Leader Conferences.

Andrea Luttgen

Andrea has been a vital member and coordinator of the Master's Swim Club since its creation in 1999. Her longstanding contributions have been pivotal to the club’s structure and success.

Janice Ma

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 1995
Doctor of Pharmacy, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 2000

Janice mentors and trains fourth-year students during their Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotations, providing them with practical work experience to prepare for future career opportunities.

Linda MacKay

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Mississauga, 1994
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 2006

Linda was the founding executive sponsor and champion of the TD Rotman Alumni Chapter, strengthening the connection among Rotman School alumni across all areas of TD Bank through quarterly social gatherings, professional development sessions and special events.

Yohan Mahimwala

Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 2015

Yohan works with the Executive MBA team, and has been instrumental in strengthening the Rotman School’s connections with RBC. He has worked extensively with the careers team to host information sessions and is always willing to help students hone their networking skills.

M. J. (Mimi) Marrocco

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1969
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1970
Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1978

Since graduating in 1969, Mimi has served as a class representative for her graduation year at St. Michael's College. Today, she mentors students through the St. Mike’s Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability Program.

Taylor Martin

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2008
Master of Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2010
Master of Health Science, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 2015

Taylor is the president of the Alumni Association of the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, chair of the institute’s Education & Events Committee, and is creating an alumni podcast of the school’s events.

Terese Mason Pierre

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Innis College, 2017

Terese is a tireless volunteer for many Hart House initiatives, including Hart House Singers and the Student Literary and Library Committee, and she has also been broadly engaged across many other areas of Hart House programming.

Barry McInerney

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 1985
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 1987

Barry has served as co-chair of the University of St. Michael's College Golf Classic since 2017. His leadership has been vital to the continuing success of this event, which has raised more than $2.7 million since the year 2000.

Lynn McIntyre

Bachelor of Music, Faculty of Music, 1986
Master of Library Science, Faculty of Information, 1993

Lynn has been a valued volunteer with the Trinity College Archives since 2010. She assists the archivist in a wide variety of projects necessary to preserve, arrange and maintain Trinity’s archival collections. She also provides research assistance in the use of these materials.

Beth McMullen

Beth trains and mentors pharmacy students in their Early Practice Experience (EPE) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotations, providing them experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for the workplace.

Malcolm Moffat

Master of Health Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1983

Malcolm is a longtime alumni volunteer for the Dalla Lana School of Public Health who has served as a mentor, a guest lecturer, a tutor and student preceptor. He also created the school's Executive-in-Residence program as an ongoing student resource.

Jane Motz Hayes

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 1996
Master of Information Studies, Faculty of Information, 2001

Jane is an informal advisor and role model to the Information Faculty’s User Experience Design students. She also serves as a mentor and has worked to break down gender barriers facing graduates entering the field.

Malcolm Musgrove

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Mississauga, 1973
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1974
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 1984

From 2014 to 2019, Malcolm chaired the Finance and Property Committee of Victoria University’s governing Board of Regents. In this role he improved the condition of buildings and infrastructure through the implementation of a deferred maintenance plan, resulting in the annual approval of funding for capital redevelopment.

Luana Mutihac

Master of Environmental Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2013

Since 2013 Luana has been an active mentor with U of T Scarborough's Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program, focusing on mentees from the Master of Environmental Science Program, participating in panel discussions, and passionately supporting female scientists in their career development.

Florence S. Narine

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, University College, 1999
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 2005

Florence is a longtime member of the University College Career Mentorship Program, generously giving her time and experience. She happily shares her insights with students at the college, at Rotman Commerce, and also at the Faculty of Arts & Science more broadly.

Huy Q. Nguyen

Bachelor of Physical and Health Education, Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, 2007
Doctor of Dental Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, 2011

From 2015 to 2020, Huy served on the Dentistry Alumni Association board of directors. He has helped organize many alumni engagement activities and provided important strategic advice. After graduating from the Faculty of Physical Education & Health in 2007, Huy continued to participate in numerous mentorship and recruitment events for the undergraduate program.

Ann Nguyen

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1986

Since 2014, Ann has been an integral member of Engineering’s broad-based admissions volunteer team having reviewed 1,800 applicant profiles to date. She helped refine the program’s assessment rubric and serves as a valuable resource for admissions staff and fellow volunteers.

Wendy Nielsen

Since 2015 Wendy has been organizing and hosting “Songs of the Season,” an annual U of T in Your Neighbourhood event that features outstanding vocal performers from the Faculty of Music.

Joe Nizich

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1977

Joe has been the head coach of the U of T men’s lacrosse team since 2010. He has been a dedicated and passionate mentor to hundreds of students, and his leadership both on and off the field has had a lasting impact on them all.

Jason Parker

Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1993
Master of Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, 2015

Jason is a dedicated volunteer with U of T’s Career Exploration & Education Job Shadowing program. He runs a highly effective program in the financial industry, with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.

Laura Pasut

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1982
Master of Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1984

Laura is a long time executive member—and now president—of the Department of Nutritional Sciences Alumni Association. She has played a key role in the association’s revival and has served in various roles on the executive team.

Heather Platt

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 1994
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1996
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1999

Heather has been a dedicated council member of the Law Alumni Association, as well as a volunteer with the Faculty's Campaign for Excellence Without Barriers in support of financial aid and enhancing the student experience.

S. Eswar Prasad

Eswar is a volunteer instructor for the advanced mechatronics course for graduate students, sharing his 40 years of industry experience. He also served as a member of the industry advisory board for the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering from 2011 to 2019.

Gael Ross

Diploma in Physical and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 1966

Gael has served on U of T Scarborough’s Local Animal Care Committee for the past six years. She reviews protocols and is instrumental in ensuring that all U of T research involving animals is conducted with the utmost regard for their welfare.

Yuri Sagalov

Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Science,
Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2009

Yuri served as co-chair of the Engineering Alumni Network’s Bay Area chapter for six years and continues to work closely with U of T's Entrepreneurship Hatchery BizSkule through his engagement with panel discussions, competitions and seminars.

Elena Sahakyan

Bachelor of Commerce, Rotman Commerce, 2009

Elena has been a mentor in the Rotman Commerce Alumni Mentorship Program since 2010, and most recently as an online mentor. She has also volunteered on the Alumni Steering Committee and as a panel speaker.

Teo Salgado

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Mississauga, 1997

Since 2016, Teo has been an active volunteer with the U of T Mississauga alumni mentorship program and the Backpack to Briefcase career series. Through his involvement he has had a direct influence on almost 700 students and young alumni who are interested in applying to grad school or looking for advice on the transition to the work world.

Constantine (Dean) Samaras

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, University College, 1973

Dean has been a dedicated volunteer with Hart House’s mentorship program since the launch of this valuable initiative in 2016, and has been pivotal to the program’s success.

Barry W. Sampson

Bachelor of Architecture, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, 1972

Barry has served as a volunteer on U of T's Academic Board, and on many committees with the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. Most recently, he was the sustainability and building systems advisor for the faculty’s new building at One Spadina.

Mark Saresky

Bachelor of Music, Faculty of Music, 1988

Mark has had a long-standing commitment to the cultural life of Hart House, and has been the conductor and music director of the Hart House Symphonic Band since 2008.

Manal Siddiqui

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Victoria College, 2006

Manal has been a dedicated mentor to students in the Department of Cell & Systems Biology and the Human Biology Program. They greatly appreciate her willingness to always be available to answer their questions and to provide guidance.

Igor Siljanovski

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, New College, 2006

Igor is an alumni volunteer with the Dinner@NEW career event and the New College Career Mentorship Program. He also served as one of the College’s representatives on U of T’s College of Electors.

Bob Stelzer

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1974
Master of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1975
Master of Business Administration, Rotman School of Management, 1982

Bob is a member of the Mechanical & Industrial Engineering Industry Advisory Board, a speaker for the Industry Spotlight Series, and also serves as a mentor for Engineering Career Centre events.

Terrence Sullivan

As a recognized leader in the health-care system, Terry has shared his expertise as a volunteer on the Dalla Lana School of Pubic Health’s Dean's Advisory Committee for nearly 10 years—as a member and then as chair. He has been a valued advisor and mentor for the faculty and has served as a Senior Fellow for three years.

Stephen Taborek

Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, St. Michael's College, 1984

Stephen is an enthusiastic volunteer for St. Michael’s College and has been involved with the Lex Byrd Award committee, the Mulock Cup reunion committee, and the Boozer Brown Athletics Reception committee.

Ernest Tai

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1994

Ernest has been a long-standing champion of the Engineering Alumni Network’s Hong Kong chapter. In addition to serving as a founding member, he also served as its president for two years and remains actively engaged in the group’s activities.

Kevin Talbott

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Lawrence. S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 2016

Kevin has served as a mentor and guest speaker at Bloomberg Nursing. In particular, he is involved in the Critical Perspectives in Global Health Nursing course, helping select students for international placements.

Gordon Thompson

Gordon chaired the Finance and Property Committee of Victoria University’s Board of Regents from 2009 to 2014. He was involved in significant developments within VIC’s revenue generating real estate portfolio, unlocking equity for endowments to fund student aid. He also oversaw the renovation of Wymillwood Café and the creation of the Goldring Student Centre.

Joseph Uyede

Bachelor of Science, Faculty of Arts & Science, Innis College, 1969

Joe is one of Innis College’s earliest graduates. He has been a tireless volunteer for many years, currently serving in an important leadership role as co-chair of the college's fundraising campaign cabinet.

Doug Vanderbij

Since 2005, Doug has had various responsibilities with the Varsity Blues swim team. He started as their Strength and Conditioning Coach and moved on deck to become an Assistant Coach. He has been an outstanding mentor to student athletes, supporting them as they balance their academic demands with athletic commitments.

Michael Villeneuve

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 1983
Master of Science, Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 1993

Mike is a proud Bloomberg Nursing ambassador whose experiences and advice have had a meaningful impact on the faculty’s alumni and students. He also recently joined the faculty’s 100th anniversary committee.

Gary Vivian

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1959

In Engineering’s Alumni Mentorship Program, Gary encourages his mentees to broaden their education through the lenses of psychology, creativity and our place in the cosmos via curiosity and multi-disciplinary thinking. He is passionate about career and life guidance, and enhancing campus mental-health resources.

Jane Welsh

Master of Science in Planning, Faculty of Arts & Science, 2000

Jane is a dedicated champion of the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design's Student-Professionals Networking Event. As president of the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects, she acts as a bridge between the faculty and the profession.

Sean Wharton

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 1992
Doctor of Pharmacy, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 1997
Doctor of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, 2001

More than 20 years ago, Sean founded U of T’s Black Medical Students Association and continues to serve as an outstanding mentor to its members. He also established a scholarship to remove financial barriers for Black medical students.

Tom Williams

Tom is a generous mentor and placement supervisor for In-Field Learning—the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education’s practical experience program. He has supported students in managing the day-to-day aspects of working in a high-pressure professional sports environment.

Henry Wong

Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2006
Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2017

Henry designed and maintains software for the Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering. This software, used by every second-year ECE student, enables students to do much of their lab work at home. This was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic since it allowed students to complete their final assessments and projects remotely.

Victor Xin

Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Science,
Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 2009

Victor has been a steadfast volunteer in Engineering’s alumni mentorship program for almost a decade, serving as chair of the program for the last four years, and working tirelessly to create programming to bring students and alumni together.

David Yen

Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto Scarborough, 2001

David has contributed to U of T Scarborough through the Partners in Leadership Alumni Mentorship Program and the Alumni Connections speed networking events since 2013. He is a dedicated volunteer who is passionate about helping the students he mentors.

Carlos Yep

Carlos has served as a committed member of both the Advisory Board and the Acquisitions Committee for the U of T Art Museum. His broad-ranging knowledge made him an outstanding ambassador during the museum’s expansion.