Meet the leaders who will help us Defy Gravity: Q&A with John Cassaday

Our campaign co-chairs will lead a coalition of volunteers devoted to inspiring the highest level of support for advancing U of T’s excellence and aspirations.

Read interviews with John Cassaday’s fellow co-chairs: Claire Kennedy, Brian Lawson, and Som Seif.

John M. Cassaday (MBA 1981, Hon. LLD 2017), Campaign Co‑Chair

John is a former Chair of the Rotman Dean’s Advisory Board and previously co-chaired a successful Rotman capital campaign. Over more than 25 years of volunteering with the University, he has served with various advisory committees and fundraising cabinets at the Rotman School of Management and was a member of the Boundless Campaign Executive and Closing Committees. He was the founding CEO of Corus Entertainment and is currently Chair of Manulife Financial Corporation.

What inspired you to get involved with U of T?

As a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board and as a former student in the Faculty of Management, I was part of a group who recognized the need to create a cutting-edge facility. It was an amazing experience to help bring the Rotman building to life in the mid-to-late 90s. Working alongside Joseph Rotman to realize this vision was particularly inspiring. We successfully convinced the provincial government that the time was right to invest in a world-class business school at U of T. Since then, I haven’t hesitated to roll up my sleeves and get to work for U of T.

Why do you think the world needs U of T right now?

U of T has the opportunity to be the most diverse, welcoming, and accessible university in the world. We can level the playing field for future students and give them endless opportunities to prepare for a range of careers.

Of the campaign’s many exciting priorities and initiatives, which is most personally meaningful to you?

Hands-down, I’m inspired by the chance this campaign will give us to address and confront systemic racism and improve access to deserving, disadvantaged students.

How has engaging with U of T impacted your life?

The education I received from U of T was a real door opener. Since I graduated, U of T’s global recognition has skyrocketed, and we alumni have seen the tide rise under our feet in terms of U of T’s reputation and the value of a U of T degree. I have been honoured to work with various Rotman Deans and University Presidents over the years on initiatives that have helped build this reputation and I am so excited to be part of this campaign and continue the work we have started.

What is your favourite memory of U of T?

I went back to school as a part-time student after having started my MBA at McGill. It was tough. I say it took people and perseverance. People, in terms of immense support from the business school dean at the time, Jack Siegel, and professors who supported my efforts to transfer credits to count toward my MBA. They really came through for me. As a proud graduate, watching my two sons follow in my footsteps and work so hard to earn their MBAs from Rotman was unforgettable. They graduated together, and at Convocation, shook hands with one of our most distinguished alumni and my friend, the late Chancellor Michael Wilson. It was a momentous occasion that has enriched my life immensely.

What is your favourite spot on campus?

Without question, Philosopher’s Walk. As a commuting part-time student, walking through there before I got on the train home was soothing and inspirational.  It is still an amazing place. I tell younger people, why do you want to go away when there is this beautiful, majestic campus right downtown, and spaces for reflection that may give you more than you can imagine. I tell them, ‘Don’t think narrowly; broaden the aperture.’

Learn more about Defy Gravity: The Campaign for the University of Toronto and how you can get involved as a volunteer.