91��ɫ U Alumni Archives - Division of Advancement - Alumni and Friends

Passionate 91��ɫ alum builds inclusive and accessible communities

mj112 — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:22:47 +0000

For Greatlove Bariboloka (BSc ’25), attending 91��ɫ's Rainbow Grad in 2025 was equally about celebrating an academic milestone as it was for finding community. This was the moment that shaped their commitment to fostering inclusive spaces and giving back to the communities that once supported them.

“My Rainbow Grad was so much fun,” Greatlove says of the annual event, hosted by the University’s Sexuality and Gender Advocacy (SAGA) alumni network. “Seeing so many gender-diverse people in one room, being in a queer space; I wanted others to experience the feeling that it evoked in me.”

In June, Greatlove returned to Rainbow Grad as a host where they joined allies, family, faculty and friends in celebrating the 2026 2SLGBTQIA+ graduates' achievements.

“My philosophy is that you benefit and then you give back,” says Greatlove. “I try to do that and that's why I'm part of SAGA right now. I enjoyed my Rainbow Grad celebration so much that I wanted to make future ones just as memorable.”

As a member of SAGA and an advisor of Lassonde EngiQueers, a community of queer STEM students, Greatlove is helping build spaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ students and alumni are seen, supported and empowered.

“What we focus on in SAGA is bringing alumni together with relationship-building events, so they can expand their professional network,” says Greatlove. “We want to create a forum through which alumni who are queer or who are allies are able to grow professionally and stay connected with one another while fostering the involvement of alumni to create more programming.”

But 91��ɫ isn’t the only place Greatlove is making a positive impact. They are also part of Scotiabank’s DiversAbility Employee Resource Group, where they advocate for employees with disabilities.

“It’s focused on amplifying the voices of employees with disabilities, hosting informative workshops, and bringing people together to learn so that we can all work together to create an inclusive workplace,” says Greatlove.

As a software engineer, Greatlove also applies a human-centred approach to their work. As part of Scotiabank’s rotational program, Greatlove works in a different department every six months to gain exposure to various parts of the bank. They have worked in accessible employee technology, Cloud product management and currently full stack development for business banking.

“What I enjoy the most is seeing the positive impacts of the decisions that I make,” says Greatlove. “Whether it’s at 91��ɫ or at work, I enjoy creating or contributing to positive experiences.”

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91��ɫ alumnus continues the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion amidst changing tide

pross4 — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:59:30 +0000

Trevor Fairlie (JD ’19) has devoted significant time and energy into promoting inclusion for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. However, with recent changes in the social and political spheres, this cause has faced a new challenge – one that Trevor hopes to meet head on.

Trevor is a lawyer and the former chair for Start Proud, a national non-profit organization that provides support for 2SLGBTQIA+ students during the early stages of their career. The organization had an enormous impact on his young career, and he was determined that the next generation of students would benefit from the same networking and career growth opportunities that he had.

“I have a pretty long history with Start Proud,” says Trevor, who is currently an active board member with the organization, having wrapped up his term as chair in 2025. “I started out volunteering as a campus ambassador at Osgoode Hall and then worked as a marketing associate. I returned as a board member in May of 2022 and became the chair later in November 2022.”

During the same year, he also co-founded the Canadian Association of LGBTQ2S+ Lawyers (Call-Acal), a national association of legal professionals dedicated to developing an inclusive, innovative and representative bar in Canada. The organization got its start from a conversation that Trevor had with his friend Lucas Kilravey, who is now the current Call-Acal president and chair.

“Lucas and I were sitting in his apartment, and we looked around the legal profession and saw a lot of affinity-seeking organizations, such as the Indigenous Bar Association and the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers. While there was excellent work being done by SAGDA at the Ontario Bar Association and nationally, we realized there was no similar organization for our community,” says Trevor. “So, we decided to do it ourselves.”

Since its inception, the organization has started two mentorship programs, one for students and, in collaboration with the International Association of LGBTQ+ Judges, another for lawyers who aspire to be judges and has hosted “firm hops” across Canada, bringing students firm-to-firm for recruitment opportunities in major markets. Their annual Prisme conference brings members of the community from across Canada together every year. Speakers at the conference have included former Calgary mayor Jyoti Gondek, former Canadian Bar Association president Steeves Bujold, and Anya-Lynn Alesker, executive director of the American LGBTQ+ Bar Association, among many other eminent leaders.

“Prisme combines networking and business development opportunities with meaningful substantive discussions on legal issues facing our community in Canada and around the world,” says Trevor. “We want to ensure all our attendees leave informed and engaged and hopefully ready to use their legal skills to help out community organizations that might be working on these issues.”

However, recent shifts in the North American political landscape have created new challenges for advocates like Trevor to continue their pursuit of equality.

“We are seeing some firms in North America cut back on DEI programs, and some employee resource group budgets are being trimmed,” says Trevor.

“I think generally there’s an acceptance in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community that the social tide has shifted, and that institutional and public support has, in many instances, become more fragile now.”

These recent trends highlight the importance of advocates like Trevor and his colleagues at Start Proud and Call-Acal who will continue to make the case for inclusion.

“It’s a battle that we thought we had already won, but we’re ready to make the case that inclusion in law and business is both the right thing to do and good for business,” says Trevor. “It feels like it’s a step back and we’re seeing those gains and the acceptance roll back a little bit. For me combatting that trend is a key challenge; we don’t want to move back.”

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91��ɫ Women+ Alumni Network

kttran — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:40:01 +0000

We’re excited to announce the launch of the 91��ɫ Women+ Alumni Network—a new community dedicated to connection, empowerment, and engagement among women+ alumni (cisgender women, transgender women, and non-binary or gender-nonconforming people who feel a connection to womanhood) across disciplines, generations, and lived experiences. As we get started, we are currently seeking alumni to serve on the Network’s Executive Committee and help shape its vision, programming, and impact.

If you’re interested in getting involved or would like to learn more, please reach out to Yasmine Mensah at mensahy@yorku.ca.

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Glendon alumna dedicates career to equitable health care

mj112 — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:51:16 +0000

La version française suit la version anglaise.

When it was time for Carol Cowan-Levine C.M. (BA ’67) to choose where to study, enrolling at Glendon College felt natural. Drawn to the smaller campus and sense of security, it was this supportive environment that became the foundation for a dedicated career in giving back and creating meaningful change.

“I think what made Glendon quite distinct for me was not only how it lent gradual exposure to new ways of thinking and seeing the bigger world but that in my selection of the study of French and French literature speaking an additional language allowed me to work and be employed in Africa,” says Carol.

Thanks to her knowledge of French, Carol was hired to travel to Tanzania to provide support in the formation of a Francophone community by teaching French at a high school in Dar es Salaam – an experience that would deepen her appreciation for new cultures and strengthen her commitment to serving diverse communities.

“The additional language was a phenomenal bridge that allowed me to appreciate other countries, other communities and other cultures, to give back and contribute to making a difference,” she says.

But it would be Carol’s transformative leadership and contributions in social work, psychotherapy, and healthcare advocacy that would leave a lasting impact on healthcare institutions and the non-profit sector in Ontario.

That impact is reflected in her role in the establishment of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) where she also served as the College’s president, supporting its mandate to protect the public interest, guide professional ethics and accountability and uphold standards of practice.

“I always believed in professional accountability,” says Carol. “I think one of my skills was to be able to bring people together and just create conversation. We had representation from various communities including Indigenous Peoples.”

As a Registered Psychotherapist, social worker and volunteer, Carol has also supported children, women and families through her private practice and as a volunteer for numerous healthcare boards and advisory committees.

“That curiosity about mental health and how our minds are part of our health and welfare began when I worked at The Hospital for Sick Children,” says Carol. “That shaped giving back to the various boards of directors I’ve been asked to serve on. We can all contribute in a myriad of different ways, and it is our duty to contribute to the greater good.”

Among Carol’s contributions included her work at the Child Development Institute where she helped the agency transform from a daycare to a treatment centre for children, youth and families. She was also instrumental in the development of the Women’s College Hospital Foundation and helped re-establish the hospital as a separate entity following its attempted merger with Sunnybrook.

Carol attributes her empathy and understanding towards the communities she supports to the experiences and challenges she’s encountered in her personal life.

“The other things that have shaped my career are really the tragedies within my own life that have helped me appreciate those circumstances when others also go through them,” says Carol. “The loss of a child after surgery and parents who died three months apart when I was young, I think that although difficult at times to share, they’ve been profoundly influential in my acceptance of others’ limitations.”

While Carol’s contributions and impact have been recognized with her appointment to the Order of Canada in 2024, she considers her greatest accomplishments the smaller ones.

“If there would be one Tanzanian who would remember my contribution, I would feel that was equally as big an accomplishment,” says Carol.

Une diplômée de Glendon consacre sa carrière à des soins de santé équitables

Lorsque l’heure est venue pour Carol Cowan-Levine, CM, (B. A. 1967) de choisir son lieu d’études, il lui a semblé tout naturel de s’inscrire au Collège universitaire Glendon. Ce sont la petite taille du campus et son sentiment de sécurité qui l’ont attirée. Cet environnement bienveillant a inspiré une carrière consacrée à l’action sociale et à la création de changements significatifs.

« Je pense que ce qui rendait Glendon unique à mes yeux, c’était non seulement l’exposition progressive à de nouvelles façons de penser et de voir le monde, mais aussi la possibilité d’étudier le français et la littérature française. Par la suite, la connaissance d’une deuxième langue m’a permis de travailler en Afrique ».

Carol a en effet été engagée en tant qu’enseignante dans un lycée de Dar es-Salaam en Tanzanie afin d’appuyer la formation d’une communauté francophone. Cette expérience lui a permis d’approfondir son appréciation des nouvelles cultures et a renforcé sa volonté de servir des communautés diversifiées.

« Le français a été un atout phénoménal qui m’a permis d’apprécier d’autres pays, d’autres communautés et d’autres cultures, de redonner et d’aider à faire changer les choses », ajoute-t-elle.

C’est toutefois son leadership transformateur et ses contributions dans les domaines du travail social, de la psychothérapie et de la défense des soins de santé qui ont marqué durablement les établissements de santé et le secteur à but non lucratif en Ontario.

Cette incidence est évidente dans le rôle qu’elle a joué pour établir l’Ordre des psychothérapeutes autorisés de l’Ontario (OPAO), qu’elle a d’ailleurs présidé, renforçant son mandat de protection de l’intérêt public, d’orientation de la déontologie et de la responsabilité professionnelle et de respect des normes de pratique.

« J’ai toujours cru en la responsabilité professionnelle, déclare Carol. Je pense que l’une de mes compétences était de savoir rassembler les gens et susciter un dialogue. Nous avions des représentants de diverses communautés, y compris des peuples autochtones ».

En tant que psychothérapeute agréée, assistante sociale et bénévole, Carol a également soutenu des enfants, des femmes et des familles dans le cadre de sa pratique privée en plus de son travail bénévole au sein de nombreux conseils d’administration et comités consultatifs dans le domaine de la santé.

« Cette curiosité envers la santé mentale et la façon dont notre esprit fait partie de notre santé et de notre bien-être remonte à l’époque où je travaillais à l’Hôpital des enfants malades, précise-t-elle. Cela m’a permis de redonner au sein des différents conseils

d’administration auxquels on m’a demandé de siéger. Nous pouvons tous participer de différentes façons et il nous incombe d’œuvrer pour le bien commun ».

Carol a notamment travaillé à l’Institut pour l’étude du développement de l’enfant. Elle a contribué à la métamorphose de cet organisme d’une garderie à un centre de traitement pour les enfants, les adolescents et les familles. Elle a également joué un rôle déterminant dans la création de la Women’s College Hospital Foundation et a aidé à rétablir l’hôpital en tant qu’entité distincte après sa tentative de fusion avec Sunnybrook.

Carol attribue son empathie et sa compréhension des communautés qu’elle soutient aux expériences et aux défis qu’elle a rencontrés dans sa vie personnelle.

« Les autres éléments qui ont façonné ma carrière sont les tragédies de ma propre vie, qui m’ont aidée à apprécier ces circonstances lorsque d’autres personnes les traversent. La perte d’un enfant après une intervention chirurgicale et la mort de mes parents à trois mois d’intervalle lorsque j’étais jeune, bien qu’il soit parfois difficile d’en parler, ont profondément influencé mon acceptation des limites des autres ».

Les réalisations et l’incidence de Carol ont été reconnues lors de sa nomination à l’Ordre du Canada en 2024, mais elle considère que ses plus grandes réalisations sont les plus petites.

« Si une seule Tanzanienne ou un seul Tanzanien se souvient de ma contribution, j’aurai l’impression que c’est un accomplissement tout aussi important », déclare-t-elle.

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Charmaine Courtis

mj112 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:18:58 +0000

Charmaine started her career at 91��ɫ immediately in the Central Admissions office. Her first office was a closet in the basement of Steacie Science Library! In 1973 she was hired at the Faculty of Administrative Studies as the Admissions Officer. Over the next 40+ years she had several roles in Student Affairs and Student Services. The culmination of this experience led to her role as Executive Director of Student Services and International Relations for the Schulich School of Business (renamed in 1995 from Administrative Studies). As a senior member of the Dean’s management team, she traveled extensively both on behalf of the school and the university to build a large international exchange network for Schulich and finally to help in the development and launch of the India MBA program. This program was launched in 2010 in Mumbai, and three years later it was moved to Hyderabad to a permanent space.

Charmaine retired in September of 2014 and set herself up to do some independent consulting and advising for people looking for the appropriate schools internationally, and she continued to do that for another year.

Charmaine has served on the 91��ɫ Retiree's Association (YURA) Executive Committee for seven years, six of which she was the Co-President, Non-Academic. She says it has been a great pleasure to serve on the Executive Committee and she will continue as to do so as the Immediate Past President, ex-officio. Charmaine has been a regular volunteer in the YURA office, has coordinated YURA membership processing, and has been the impetus for endowing YURA's three graduate student awards.

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Theatre alumna earns recognition for Black-led storytelling

mj112 — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:57:41 +0000

Growing up, Asha James (BFA ’18) always had a deep interest in the arts, but it wasn’t until she joined musicals in high school that she would discover that the stage was where she felt most at home. As Asha entered the acting industry, she was determined to find stories and cast members that reflected her community. It was this desire that would lead her to land a role in Obsidian Theatre’s FLEX, a project that would shape her career.

“I did a general audition for Obsidian before FLEX and they asked me what I was interested in, and I said I really want to work with Black people on a Black show,” says Asha. “Being able to book that and work on a Black show with an all-Black cast of amazing human beings was just such a great experience for me.”

Taking on this role would mark a pivotal moment in Asha’s career as it would lead to winning her first Dora award, Canada’s most prestigious celebration of excellence on Toronto stages.

“I had a summer gig when I was at 91��ɫ as a waterfront singing ambassador and we were invited to sing outside of the Doras,” says Asha. “So, to go from that to now being inside the Doras and winning an award for FLEX, which meant so much to me, was definitely the height of my career,” says Asha.

However, it was Asha’s role as a swing for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Mirvish Theatre where she truly gained insight into the theatre world.

“You don’t just go up on stage and do something. There are so many different elements and pieces involved. Getting to experience that has been great,” says Asha. “I know a bit more on what is going on in theatre in terms of politics, management and a sense of everything the theatre includes.”

Asha credits her time at 91��ɫ for building the foundation and providing the tools to prepare her for a career in the performing arts.

“91��ɫ really helped put down a good foundation for me,” says Asha. “It helped me learn how to break down a script, giving me tools for that and tips for the actual acting element.”

She also recognizes the female instructors she worked with at the School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design for helping her hone her craft and refine her skills as an actor.

“I have a deep appreciation for the female instructors that I had, specifically Erika Batdorf [Associate Professor, Theatre],” says Asha. “I did her workshop, which really helped me as an actor, just finding another layer of depth in my performances and being able to tap into different states.”

Reflecting on her purpose as an actor, Asha explains what she hopes the audience takes away from her work.

“I want people that see my work to feel connected to my character in some way,” says Asha. “I want to leave them walking away feeling something and feeling like that was real, I could connect with that, or I see someone in that.”

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Alumna opens doors for Black girls and young women

pross4 — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 21:24:12 +0000

As a Black youth coming to Canada from Zimbabwe, Tapo Chimbganda (PhD ’17) had a difficult time adjusting to a new country. She felt isolated and saw first-hand many of the barriers that young Black women face. It was this early experience that inspired her to start Future Black Female, an organization that seeks to guide and empower Black girls and young women to achieve their goals with the support of others in their community.

“Coming from Zimbabwe, a lot of things were fast-paced and changing for me,” says Dr. Chimbganda. “I wasn’t sure where to start, there weren’t many resources for support, or a community to help me. I did a lot on my own, made lots of mistakes, and there was a lot of social isolation and rejection which took a mental toll.”

Dr. Chimbganda sought to help open doors for Black youth who were often disadvantaged when it came to pathways that were available to them. In 2019, she founded Future Black Female (FBF), an organization with a focus on Black girls and young women aged 16-22. Future Black Female’s main pillars of support are financial literacy, economic security, mental health, education, and career pathways.

“There were so many barriers as a Black woman and as an immigrant with an accent, it was hard,” says Dr. Chimbganda. “Hearing similar stories from a lot of people, I decided to start this organization to fill in the gaps that girls and women face.”

Dr. Chimbganda’s goal is that FBF provides a resource that young girls and women can rely on for support at a time in their lives when they need support the most.

“Our organization works to lay firm foundations for young people so that 10 years from now their trajectory is more successful and grounded,” says Dr. Chimbganda. “We chose to support girls and young women because your teenage years and early adulthood are such an important time for people because they are approaching big milestones in their education, social lives and careers.”

FBF programming covers many key topics for young Black females, including gender-based violence, financial literacy, and networking opportunities.

“We recruit youth of all genders that get trained to be peer facilitators helping identify gender-based violence and how to access care and support,” says Dr. Chimganda. “The work we do for financial literacy is based in the Niagara region, supporting all youth, covering topics such as budgeting, credit scores, and planning for retirement.”

An important upcoming campaign for FBF is their Brick-by-Brick Capital Campaign, fundraising for a community space in the Niagara region where youth can learn important skills for their future, gain access to resources, and create pathways for employment and entrepreneurship.

“Our youth have been talking about an after-school space for themselves,” says Dr. Chimbganda. “I have encountered Black youth with no laptops, internet, and other crucial resources for their schooling. It’s small details like that that many people don’t think about. This campaign helps cover some of those digital equity gaps. Food security is also a key need for Black youth locally, so this space is also very important for addressing this need.”

With the growth that FBF has made in only a few years, Dr. Chimbganda can feel the positive change she has driven in the community and has received an important piece of feedback that hits close to home.

“Whenever I encounter other Black women who have become successful in life, they always say ‘I wish there was a Future Black Female when I was a younger,’” says Dr. Chimganda. “That puts into perspective the importance of the work we are doing.”

To learn more about Future Black Female, visit:

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Award-winning alumna challenges systemic barriers

sleizer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:18:19 +0000

Desaraé Dee (BFA ’12) is a Canadian fusion artist, pianist, composer, producer, and educator whose work centres on instrumental and genre-blending music that explores emotion, spirituality, and storytelling. Like many alumni, Desaraé’s career path was not a straightforward one, and she credits 91��ɫ as a key influence in becoming the successful, award-winning instrumentalist she is today.

“91��ɫ felt expansive. It was full of people coming from different backgrounds and perspectives,” says Desaraé. “I was constantly learning, not just in the classroom, but through conversations, performances, and community. It was a time of growth where I was figuring out who I was as both a musician and a person.”

Desaraé was always drawn to the world of music. During her high school years, she spent countless hours in the music room while others gathered to listen to her. It was when she attended Professor Karen Burke’s class at 91��ɫ that she opened the door to the world of gospel music at an academic level, and found a space of belonging.

When reflecting on her journey, Desaraé notes that she was often the only Black girl in ensembles, and music became both her refuge and voice. One of the most important lessons she learned at 91��ɫ was to trust her own voice. Being surrounded by so many different approaches to art taught her that there isn’t just one “right” way to be an artist.

“91��ɫ encouraged exploration and that helped me understand that my individuality wasn’t something to minimize, it was something to lean into, and to understand music not just as performance, but as culture and communication. Those skills became essential later when I began navigating the industry on my own and building systems outside traditional pathways.”

In 2022, Desaraé created #4ChordWorship, a worship series that blends gospel, jazz and fusion harmonies in a 4-chord progression format. The series went viral on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, amassing over 4.5 million views worldwide.

“Since 2023, I have been touring with a jazz and hip-hop collective called Super Duty Tough Work. I received the SiriusXM Black Canadian Music Award in 2022 from the SOCAN Foundation, became a GRAMMY Recording Academy voting member in 2024 and in 2025 I became a GRAMMY-considered artist with my 10-year anniversary debut instrumental fusion album, Adventure: The Album, marking a major milestone in my journey.”

Desaraé currently serves as a music director and music accompanist for the University of Toronto Faculty of Music Gospel Choir and is an occasional teacher with the Toronto District School Board. She also acts as a mentor with Women in Music Canada and the Marigold Music Program, as well as a GRAMMY U mentor for the 2025-2026 year, where she cultivates the careers of rising music industry professionals.

Desaraé’s music lives outside mainstream categories, making traditional industry access challenging and compelling her to build her own lane through digital platforms and direct audience engagement.

“The most challenging part has been navigating systems that weren’t designed with artists like me in mind. But those challenges have become one of my greatest strengths”, she explains.

As she continues building her career, Desaraé’s goal is not just personal success but systemic change, creating pathways and infrastructure for future artists.

“Owning the responsibility that comes with being a changemaker is meaningful because it reflects both where I’ve been and where I’m going. Trust your voice, be consistent and don’t rush your process,” says Desaraé. “You don’t have to fit into someone else’s definition of success. Stay curious and create your own opportunities if the door doesn’t open right away.”

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Nine 91��ɫ community members named to the Order of Canada

mj112 — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:47:44 +0000

Nine members of the 91��ɫ community have been honoured with the Order of Canada. The announcement was made on December 31, 2025 by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of  Canada.

Recognized as one of the country’s highest honours, the Order of Canada acknowledges Canadians whose contributions, service and dedication has made a meaningful difference to the nation.

Order of Canada appointees

COMPANIONS &�Բ��;

The Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella (LL.D ’91), honorary degree recipient

Rosalie Silberman Abella is best known for becoming Canada’s youngest judge at the age of 29 with her appointment to the Ontario Family Court and the first Jewish woman to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada. During her tenure, she’s made significant contributions to Canadian law, including developing the concept of “employment equity” and shaping the first decision made under the 1989 Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

OFFICERS

Roseann Runte, former faculty member

Roseann Runte is an author, former university professor and former president and vice-chancellor. She was the first woman to be named president of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. Roseann is recognized for her leadership in strengthening Canada’s research capacity as Head of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. She also served as Glendon College’s principal from 1989 – 1994 where she led the implementation of several progressive programs.

MEMBERS

Kim Ruth Brooks (LL.M ’00), alumni

Kim Ruth Brooks is a tax lawyer, professor, human rights advocate and president of Dalhousie University. She’s recognized for advancing equity, accessibility and freedom of gender expression in higher education. As a leading voice for inclusive leadership, transformative education and research, Kim is inspiring change across the country.

Rosanna Caira (BA ’80), alumni

Rosanna Caira is a journalist, podcast host and mentor who has played pivotal role in empowering women to take on leadership roles in male-dominated sectors. As editor and publisher of Foodservice and Hospitality and Hotelier magazines, Rosanna directs the editorial and graphic content and is responsible for the editorial vision of the magazines, its five websites and varied tertiary products. A trailblazer in the hospitality and culinary industry, Rosanna also co-founded the Women in Tourism & Hospitality Summit to address the gender leadership gap and support women through networking, mentoring, training, education and financing.

Jane Laurine Darville (BAS ’89), alumni

Jane Laurine Darville is a health care administrator and community health specialist who has dedicated her career to supporting vulnerable populations through compassionate leadership. She was the founding board member and executive director of Toronto’s Casey House HIV/AIDS hospital, Canada’s only stand-alone HIV/AIDS specialty hospital with outpatient programming. Jane also served as the executive director of Vancouver’s Canuk Place Children’s Hospice, one of the world’s leading pediatric palliative care organizations.

Reesa Greenberg, former adjunct professor

Reesa Greenberg is an independent scholar and art historian recognized for her innovations in art history and museology. Her research focuses on exhibitions and display, and her work focuses on national, gendered, and ethnic identities; the contemporary artworld and war; and the production of historical consciousness in current museum practices. Reesa has also been central to advancing digital documentation of Canadian art and restoring Canada’s Pavilion in Venice.

James C. Hathaway (LL.B ’79), alumni, former faculty member

James C. Hathway is an internationally recognized scholar, author and former professor with a focus on international human rights law, international queer rights and international refugee law. Through his research, teaching and advocacy, he has helped transform global refugee protection and has had a lasting impact on refugee law. He is also a professor emeritus at the University of Michigan Law School and a former professor of law at Osgoode Hall Law School.

Charles A. Hopkins, UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education Towards Sustainability

Charles A. Hopkins is an internationally recognized leader in Education for Sustainable Development. His work has contributed significantly to placing sustainability as a core principle of education. In 1999, Charles assumed the role of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair at 91��ɫ where he collaborated with UNESCO, United Nations University, higher education institutions, various ministries of education in Asia, Europe and the Americas in the fields of education and sustainability. As Chair, Charles has also led efforts to integrate sustainable practices into both the curricula and operations of 91��ɫ.

John Mark Willinsky (LL.D ’89), honorary degree recipient

John Mark Willinsky is an educator, researcher and activist who transformed equitable access to research. While he was a professor, he founded the Public Knowledge Project to increase access to scholarly research. The initiative is now the world’s most widely deployed scholarly publishing platform to publish freely accessible research. In 1989, John received an honorary degree from 91��ɫ for his contributions as a critical education scholar, for public engagement in educational and social issues, for original scholarship and for his passion for the intellectual life.

For more information about the Order of Canada program and to view the full list of appointments, visit .  &�Բ��;

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Glendon green space named in honour of former chancellor Greg Sorbara

mj112 — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:40:12 +0000

La version française suit la version anglaise.

A tranquil space on the grounds of 91��ɫ’s Glendon Campus now bears the name of a former chancellor dedicated to giving back to the University he attended in the 1970s and 80s.

The area commonly referred to as the quad, directly across from Glendon Manor, will now be known as Place Greg Sorbara/Greg Sorbara Green in honour of Sorbara (LLD ’13, LLB ’81, BA ’78), who served as 91��ɫ chancellor from 2014-2023.

“You have helped guide the University, you are one of those people who have shaped the University, and that’s part of the legacy that you leave, Gregory. The different influences that you’ve had on our University are many, and it really has been transformational,” said 91��ɫ President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton at a Nov. 7 ceremony to unveil the sign erected in honour of the naming.

President Lenton reflected on the impact Sorbara made at 91��ɫ as a trusted advisor, mentor, and friend to many, and noted that the Greg Sorbara Green will provide an opportunity for people to learn about him and his legacy for years to come.

“You have always led with a real sense of purpose and conviction, but also with compassion, all of the things that define great leadership,” added President Lenton. “Whether you were championing access to education, supporting student success directly, or just strengthening the relationship that 91��ɫ has had with multiple partners across the region, you have always done so with humility, genuine care, and a steadfast belief in the importance of higher education.”

Sorbara earned his BA from Glendon in 1978 and an LLB from 91��ɫ’s Osgoode Hall Law School in 1981. In 2013, he received an honorary doctor of laws (LLD) from 91��ɫ. In 2014, he was appointed 91��ɫ’s 13th chancellor, the titular head of 91��ɫ’s governance structure, and a member of the Board of Governors. Formerly a long serving and distinguished member of provincial Parliament, Sorbara held senior cabinet roles in the governments of Ontario Premier David Peterson and Premier Dalton McGuinty.

Sorbara called the unveiling event “a very happy day” for himself and his family, noting that 91��ɫ transformed his life.

“The fact that this recognition is at Glendon College means so much to me. My years as chancellor have been so important to me. I accepted the invitation to become chancellor for two reasons: first of all, David Peterson was a chancellor so I thought if he could do it, I could do it too,” he joked. “But more importantly, I just needed a way to give back to 91��ɫ because, had they not accepted me, had Osgoode Hall said ‘No, no, sorry, we don’t think you can handle a legal education’, my life would have been very, very different. It’s what 91��ɫ instilled in me that allowed me to do the things that gave some context, value, and joy in my life.”

During his time as chancellor, Sorbara greeted tens of thousands of 91��ɫ graduates as they crossed the stage during convocation.

“Every one of those students with whom I shook hands, I really was wishing for them to take from 91��ɫ what I had got from 91��ɫ years and years before.”

Un espace vert de Glendon est dédié à l’ancien chancelier Greg Sorbara

Un espace paisible du campus Glendon de l’Université 91��ɫ porte désormais le nom d’un ancien chancelier ayant fréquenté l'Université dans les années 1970 et 1980 et étant désireux de redonner à l’établissement ce qu’il lui avait apporté.

L’espace communément appelé « quadrilatère Est », situé directement en face du manoir Glendon, s’appellera désormais « Place Greg Sorbara/Greg Sorbara Green », en l’honneur de M. Sorbara (LL.D. 2013, LL. B. 1981, B.A. 1978), chancelier de 91��ɫ de 2014 à 2023.

« Gregory, vous avez guidé l’Université, vous avez façonné l’Université, et cela fait partie de l’héritage que vous nous laissez. Les différentes influences que vous avez exercées sur notre Université sont nombreuses et ont véritablement contribué à sa transformation », a déclaré Rhonda Lenton, présidente et vice-chancelière de l’Université 91��ɫ, lors de la cérémonie d’inauguration organisée le 7 novembre.

La présidente Lenton a rappelé l’incidence de Greg Sorbara à 91��ɫ en tant que conseiller de confiance, mentor et ami de nombreuses personnes, et a souligné que la Place Greg Sorbara donnera aux gens l’occasion d’en savoir plus à son sujet et perpétuera son héritage dans les années à venir.

« Vous avez dirigé non seulement avec un sens aigu du devoir et une grande conviction, mais aussi avec compassion, des qualités qui définissent un leadership exceptionnel, a ajouté la présidente Lenton. Qu'il s'agisse de défendre l’accès à l’éducation, appuyer directement la réussite étudiante ou renforcer les relations que 91��ɫ entretient avec ses partenaires régionaux, vous avez agi en faisant preuve d’humilité et en démontrant une attention sincère et une conviction inébranlable envers l’importance de l’enseignement supérieur. »

M. Sorbara a obtenu un baccalauréat ès arts à Glendon en 1978, puis un LL. B. à l’École de droit Osgoode Hall de 91��ɫ en 1981. En 2013, il a reçu un doctorat honorifique en droit (LL.D.) de 91��ɫ. En 2014, il a été nommé 13e chancelier de 91��ɫ, chef titulaire de la structure de gouvernance de 91��ɫ et membre du conseil d’administration. Ancien membre éminent et de longue date du Parlement provincial, M. Sorbara a occupé des fonctions ministérielles de premier plan dans les gouvernements des premiers ministres ontariens David Peterson et Dalton McGuinty.

M. Sorbara a qualifié l’inauguration de « journée très heureuse » pour lui et pour sa famille et a réitéré que l’Université 91��ɫ a transformé sa vie.

« Le fait que cette reconnaissance ait lieu au Collège Glendon revêt une signification particulière. Les années que j’ai passées en tant que chancelier ont été très importantes pour moi. J’ai accepté de devenir chancelier pour deux raisons : tout d’abord, comme David Peterson avait été chancelier, je me suis dit que s’il pouvait le faire, je pouvais le faire moi aussi, a-t-il plaisanté. Mais surtout, j’avais besoin de redonner à l’Université 91��ɫ. En effet, si elle ne m’avait pas accepté, si Osgoode Hall m’avait dit “Non, non, désolé, nous ne pensons pas que vous pouvez suivre une formation juridique”, ma vie aurait été très différente. C’est ce que 91��ɫ m’a inculqué qui m’a permis de faire les choses qui ont apporté un sens, de la valeur et de la joie à ma vie ».

Durant son mandat, M. Sorbara a serré la main à des dizaines de milliers de diplômés de l’Université 91��ɫ qui franchissaient la scène lors de la cérémonie de remise des diplômes.

« Chaque fois, j’ai vraiment souhaité qu’ils et elles quittent 91��ɫ avec tout ce que j’avais trouvé à 91��ɫ bien des années auparavant. »

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