Advancement Archives - YFile /yfile/tags-to-show/advancement/ Wed, 30 Sep 2026 15:29:08 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.10 Susana Gajic-Bruyea reappointed as vice-president advancement听 /yfile/2026/09/30/susana-gajic-bruyea-reappointed-as-vice-president-advancement/ Wed, 30 Sep 2026 15:29:05 +0000 /yfile/?p=410360 Susana Gajic-Bruyea will serve a second five-year term as vice-president advancement after overseeing significant growth in fundraising, alumni engagement and philanthropic support across the University.

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91亚色鈥檚 Board of Governors has reappointed Susana Gajic-Bruyea as vice-president advancement for a second five-year term.

Her first term saw the University鈥檚 Impact Campaign double in size, alumni engagement more than double and annual fundraising climb to its highest sustained level on record.

Susana Gajic-Bruyea
Susana Gajic-Bruyea

Gajic-Bruyea began in January 2022. One of her earliest decisions was to extend the Impact Campaign by $500 million, lifting 91亚色鈥檚 goal to $1 billion and making it the most ambitious philanthropic campaign in the University鈥檚 history. 

The campaign has secured $768 million to date, passing the halfway mark in roughly half the time expected. Annual fundraising has grown from a five-year average of about $47 million before 2022 to $55 million since. 

Behind those numbers are gifts reshaping 91亚色鈥檚 campuses. A $6-million gift from Joan and Martin Goldfarb is establishing the Goldfarb Gallery. A $4-million commitment from The Victor Dahdaleh Foundation supported upgrades to the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Building, operating funding for CIFAL 91亚色, and the development of ADERSIM, 91亚色鈥檚 unique simulation facility for research and training in disaster and emergency response. At the Markham Campus, more than $20 million has been raised toward a $50-million goal, including the $5-million Metropia Student Success Centre. The School of Medicine campaign has raised $33.2 million in gifts and pledges, with new provincial government funding creating a sense of excitement amongst philanthropists around the world. 

Alumni engagement has more than doubled since 2022, reaching 16.8 per cent and climbing toward a 20 per cent target with new programs and services on offer. New international networks, the Alumni Perks App, career coaching and reimagined recognition programs have widened how graduates stay connected. 

Less visible but just as consequential, the Division of Advancement replaced its core technology, implementing a new CRM in 18 months, on time and on budget. The system supports better data, reporting and more personal engagement with alumni and donors. 

鈥淪usana has changed what this University believes is possible,鈥� says Lisa Philipps, interim president and vice-chancellor of 91亚色. 鈥淪he looked at a campaign that was heading for the finish line and saw a much bigger opportunity for our students and our researchers. Then she built the team, the systems and the relationships to go after it. I am delighted she will see it through.鈥� 

The next five years will centre on finishing what was started: completing the $1-billion campaign, moving annual fundraising toward $75 million, reaching 20 per cent alumni engagement and building on 91亚色鈥檚 move into the medical-doctoral category of universities. 

Gajic-Bruyea pointed to the "collective effort" behind the result. "This rests on a lot of shoulders: alumni showing up in numbers we have not seen before, Faculties coming forward with compelling cases for support, donors backing ideas that will outlast all of us and a team that has done the patient work of rebuilding how we operate," she says. "That combination is what makes ambitious philanthropy possible and what will carry it further."听

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Gift expands access to art at Goldfarb Gallery /yfile/2026/09/25/gift-expands-access-to-art-at-goldfarb-gallery/ Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:48:16 +0000 /yfile/?p=410275 The Julia and Robert Foster Petite Gallery will support exhibitions, showcase works from 91亚色鈥檚 permanent collection and provide space for reading and reflection, recognizing a gift from the longtime 91亚色 supporters.

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A newly named space within 91亚色's Joan and Martin Goldfarb Gallery will offer visitors another way to engage with exhibitions and the University's art collection, while recognizing a gift from longtime 91亚色 supporters Julia and Robert Foster.

The Julia and Robert Foster Petite Gallery will be a flexible, multi-use space, says Lauren Gould, interim director of Goldfarb. Starting in late Spring 2027, visitors can use the area to read about and reflect on works featured in the gallery鈥檚 next round of exhibitions.

Julia and Robert Foster
Julia and Robert Foster

The Petite Gallery will showcase works from 91亚色鈥檚 permanent collection of nearly 2,000 artworks. It will also be used as an extension of the gallery鈥檚 three main exhibition spaces, complementing the Goldfarb鈥檚 design that encourages visitors to explore different paths through the facility and encounter art along the way.

鈥淸It鈥檚] a space that will create opportunities for students to engage with art, for artists to share their work and for our community to come together around new ideas and perspectives,鈥� said Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps at a special unveiling event on Sept. 22.

She noted the Petite Gallery represents a milestone for the gallery, as Julia and Robert Foster are the first donors to name an individual space within the building.

Julia Foster has a longstanding relationship with 91亚色, including serving as Chair of the University's Board of Governors from 2012-15, when she became the first woman to hold the position. A member of the Order of Canada for her service promoting the arts and Canadian culture, she has also chaired the National Arts Centre, Ontario Arts Council and Stratford Festival.

The Fosters made their gift in recognition of Rhonda Lenton's service as 91亚色's former president and vice-chancellor.

For Gould, the naming reflects the couple's commitment to education, arts and culture.

"It is important to recognize and honour those individuals that place emphasis on giving to spaces and organizations that help us connect more to each other as people," she says.

Gould hopes the gift will encourage others to support the gallery and expand what it can offer.

鈥淥ur hope is that this inspires others to 鈥� enable the gallery to continue to build upon its programming, provide more engagement opportunities for students, and to serve as a bridge from our local to global artistic communities,鈥� she says.

Visit for upcoming exhibitions and events.

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$1M gift makes space for creativity at 91亚色鈥檚 Markham Campus /yfile/2026/09/04/1m-gift-makes-space-for-creativity-at-york-universitys-markham-campus/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:29:16 +0000 /yfile/?p=409608 The gift from technology leader Adrian Lee-Kwen expands access to hands-on learning through the Makerspace at 91亚色's Markham Campus, where students can access technology, equipment and resources that support creative exploration and learning.

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鈥淐reativity is everywhere, but access is not.鈥�

For technology leader Adrian Lee-Kwen, that belief is at the heart of a $1-million gift to the 91亚色 Markham Campus that will give students new opportunities to explore creativity, experiment with technology and bring their ideas to life.

The gift and the opening of the newly named Adrian Lee-Kwen Makerspace, located in the Markham Campus Library, were celebrated at an event on Aug. 21.

From left to right: Dan Palermo, deputy provost, Markham Campus; Susana Gajic-Bruyea, vice-president, advancement; Suzie Lee Hortness, director of development, Markham Campus; Adrian Lee-Kwen; and Lisa Philipps, 91亚色鈥檚 interim president and vice-chancellor during the Aug. 21 celebration.

The Makerspace provides equitable access to space, equipment and resources for students to learn through making and creation. Featuring digital fabrication tools, 3D printers and prototyping equipment, this dynamic space gives students the tools to experiment with new technologies, develop new skills and discover new interests.

The Makerspace reflects the role of universities as places of discovery and learning as technology continues to transform how people study, work and interact, says Lisa Philipps, 91亚色鈥檚 interim president and vice-chancellor. 鈥淲hile Adrian is deeply engaged with technology, his focus has always been on people: developing their potential and preparing them to take on the challenges ahead. His generous support and mentorship of students at 91亚色 reflects the depth of his commitment to developing the next generation of innovators.鈥�

For Lee-Kwen, the significance of accessible spaces for creative pursuits is deeply personal. During the celebratory event, he shared that while in high school, he made an investment that seemed to others to be unusual at the time: he bought his first computer. That computer, he recalled cost more than the run-down car he was driving. While his math teacher was skeptical about this investment 鈥� as personal home computers were rare at the time 鈥� his history teacher cheered on the decision. That first computer would become an early step in a much longer journey.

As an early adopter of technology, this investment led to a lifelong interest in technology and computer science. Today Lee-Kwen is the senior vice-president of AI research and development for Workforce Engagement Management at Genesys, where he leads a global team of more than 350 engineers.

He sees the Makerspace as an environment he wishes had been available to him when he was a student: a place to explore curiosity and access modern equipment and technology.

鈥淲hat makes Adrian鈥檚 gift especially meaningful here is his connection to 91亚色 Region,鈥� says Dan Palermo, deputy provost, Markham Campus. 鈥淪tudents can see someone from their own community who followed their curiosity and went on to build a global career in technology.鈥�

As an extension of Lee-Kwen鈥檚 commitment, he will serve as the inaugural Innovation Partner with the Markham Campus Library. In this role, he will share his experience and expertise directly with students through mentorship, complementing his investment in the Makerspace.

For Markham Campus students Sasha Tarassova and Jesse Tsang, what makes the Makerspace distinct is its openness. 鈥淭he Makerspace鈥檚 greatest draw is its accessibility in all aspects: physically, financially and in the philosophy and culture that it cultivates,鈥� says Tarassova.

鈥淚n today鈥檚 highly digital world, the Makerspace is an important bridge between the digital and the physical, to see first-hand the impacts of what we create,鈥� Tsang adds.

This connection between technology, creativity and real-world application is at the core of the Markham Campus, a made-in-Canada model of higher education. The campus is connected to industry, energized by experimentation and built to inspire innovators, makers and entrepreneurs in one of the country鈥檚 fastest growing and most diverse communities.

Michael Ma, MP for Markham-Unionville and a long-standing champion of the Markham Campus, reflected on its potential to develop the workforce for jobs of the future. During the celebratory event, he said he hopes the impact of the Makerspace will help educate but also help foster a culture of innovation that encourages young people to build their careers and lives in Markham.

Lee-Kwen鈥檚 philanthropy and mentorship support student access to new opportunities to explore technology, creativity and innovation at the Markham Campus.

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Anonymous donor funds 91亚色 student awards in education, art, health /yfile/2026/07/29/anonymous-donor-funds-york-student-awards-in-education-art-health/ Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:30:10 +0000 /yfile/?p=408889 The Wild Rose Awards will support future leaders committed to community involvement, advocacy and positive social impact by providing financial support to first-year students as they begin studies in three specific disciplines.

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A gift from an anonymous local donor will defray the cost of university for first-year students in each of the Faculty of Education, the (AMPD) and the Department of Psychology within the .

Each Faculty will receive $5,000 a year over five years for the scholarship, reflecting a total gift amount of $75,000.

The donor, an engineer by training, understands that many university students are finding it increasingly difficult to fund their education given challenging economic times, changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and the uncertainty of clear career paths after graduation.

鈥淭his scholarship represents an important opportunity to give back to the community and to support the next generation of students and leaders,鈥� he said in an interview. 鈥淢y desire is to provide funding for three programs which are socially critical but are often economically undervalued.鈥�

The donor believes that increasing access to education is essential and warrants support.

鈥淚鈥檝e benefited a lot from great teachers,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 value what a great teacher can do for a class or even for one student. 鈥楾o teach is to touch鈥� and the impact a teacher can have on someone is enduring and profound.鈥�

Professor Robert Savage, dean of the Faculty of Education at 91亚色, said, 鈥淚 salute our donor鈥檚 generosity, as well as his deep understanding that good educators have a foundational impact on student success at all levels.

鈥淚n helping to remove financial barriers for talented students, he is creating opportunities for not only those students, but also the generations of others who will be influenced by these future teachers鈥� skills, knowledge and values. The ripple effect will touch people far beyond the Faculty of Education.鈥�

The donor also aims to help students in the arts and in psychology. As a patron and supporter of the arts, he believes art can challenge people to think deeply about themselves and society. In addition, mental health support should extend to everyone, he said, because 鈥渁 great mental health practitioner can make a real and lasting impact on someone鈥檚 life.鈥�

鈥淏eginning University is a significant milestone, and support during this important transition can have a lasting impact on a student鈥檚 confidence, success and academic journey,鈥� says Faculty of Health Dean David Peters. 鈥淭his generous gift recognizes the value of psychology education and will help our students thrive at 91亚色."

Brandon Vickerd, dean of AMPD, says the donor鈥檚 investment in student success across multiple disciplines reflects a deep commitment to the transformative power of education.

鈥淏y supporting students at a pivotal stage in their academic journeys, this gift will help foster creativity, leadership and meaningful community impact. We are grateful for the donor鈥檚 vision and generosity,鈥� he says.

The scholarships, named the Wild Rose Awards after the donor鈥檚 native Alberta, are open to first-year undergraduates in each field. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a strong dedication to leadership through volunteer work, student leadership roles or other community involvement, as well as a demonstrated commitment to advancing women in their field or community through leadership, advocacy or engagement.

Those interested are asked to submit a brief statement about themselves with their application.

鈥淭hese scholarships are intended to enable students to pursue leadership opportunities, refine their craft and access training that they are passionate about,鈥� the donor said. 鈥淚 hope that this scholarship allows recipients to create something beautiful, whether through understanding, insight, creativity or by paying it forward to others.鈥�

For additional information about the Wild Rose Awards, visit .

With files from Elaine Smith

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91亚色听University听announces听recipients of 2026听Top 30 Alumni Under 30 /yfile/2026/04/15/york-university-announces-recipients-of-2026-top-30-alumni-under-30/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:22:18 +0000 /yfile/?p=405770 Learn more about the achievements of 91亚色 alumni under the age of 30 who are shaping a better future through leadership, creativity and volunteerism.

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Voir la version fran莽aise

91亚色 announces its 2026 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, an influential group of leaders who are driving meaningful change in their communities and around the world.

The recipients of the sixth annual recognition demonstrate a deep commitment to giving back and are tackling complex social issues across various industries 鈥� all before the age of 30.

This year鈥檚 honourees are making great strides in fields such as aviation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health care, technology, AI and more. Together, they are working toward building an innovative and sustainable future, paving the way for future generations.

鈥淓ach year, the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program highlights the remarkable achievements and impact of 91亚色鈥檚 global young alumni community,鈥� says Julie Lafford, assistant vice-president, alumni engagement. 鈥淭his year鈥檚 cohort features a diverse group of innovators who are shaping the future through their leadership, creativity and volunteerism.鈥�

Since 2021, the Top 30 program has celebrated the success and diversity of the University鈥檚 alumni community, while inspiring the next generation of young alumni leaders. 

To view the full list of the 2026 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, and learn more about their accomplishments, 鈥痸isit the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 webpage.

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Passings: Allan Carswell /yfile/2026/04/14/passings-allan-carswell/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:58:49 +0000 /yfile/?p=405784 Professor Emeritus Allan Carswell was a visionary in discovery, leadership and generosity whose impact at 91亚色 over nearly six decades was immeasurable.

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Allan Carswell, a visionary scientist, educator, entrepreneur and philanthropist whose life and work profoundly shaped Canadian science and public life, passed away on March 29 at the age of 93.

At 91亚色, his impact was immeasurable and will continue to enrich the lives of students and scholars for generations to come. His legacy at the University spans his influential research in physics, decades of teaching and leadership, and transformative philanthropy that strengthened scholarship across disciplines.

Allan Carswell
Allan Carswell

鈥淒r. Carswell鈥檚 passing marks the loss of a pioneering force in physics, a devoted builder of institutions and a generous supporter of education, health care and the arts,鈥� says Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps. 鈥淗is prolific career reflected a rare combination of scientific excellence, entrepreneurial vision and profound commitment to the public good, leaving an indelible mark on Canadian science, higher education and community life.鈥�

Carswell earned his BASc in engineering physics (鈥�56), MA (鈥�57) and PhD in physics (鈥�59) from the University of Toronto, which he followed with a postdoctoral research position at the Institute of Theoretical Physics at the University of Amsterdam. It was there that he focused his career on high-power lasers and the emerging field of laser radar, now known as LiDAR (light detection and ranging).

Nearly 58 years ago, Carswell joined 91亚色 as a professor of physics. During his tenure, he pioneered LiDAR applications for remote sensing, environmental diagnostics, and atmospheric monitoring (including Arctic ozone layer observation). He was internationally recognized as a founding figure in LiDAR technology, and his research innovations revolutionized Earth and planetary mapping, atmospheric science and space-based environmental monitoring.

Most notably, LiDAR technology developed through his research was later deployed by NASA as part of the Mars Phoenix Lander鈥檚 weather station, a mission led by 91亚色 scientists and work that led to the first observation of falling snow on Mars.

His career at the University spanned three decades. He was named professor emeritus in 1998.

In 1974, Carswell founded Optech with his late wife, Helen Carswell, who played a formative role in the company鈥檚 growth. Initially operating the business out of their family home, the company bridged the gap between academic research and real-world, deployable technologies. Under Carswell鈥檚 leadership as founder and president (1974-2000), Optech evolved into a global leader in high-tech laser systems. Operating today as Teledyne Optech, the company鈥檚 technologies have been deployed on all seven continents, in space and on the surface of Mars.

Beyond research and entrepreneurship, Carswell was a prominent leader in Canada鈥檚 scientific community. He served as Chair and member of the National Science & Research Physics Committee (1977-81), Chair of the committee on Laser Atmospheric Studies of the American Meteorological Association (1984-86) and president of the Canadian Association of Physicists (1985-86).

He was also a founding member and board director of Ontario鈥檚 Institute for Space and Terrestrial Science (now CRESTech), where he served as principal investigator who oversaw LiDAR atmospheric observatories in Toronto and the Canadian High Arctic.

Inspired by Helen, Carswell and his wife began their philanthropic journey with a $1,000,000 gift to establish a program at the East General Hospital where Helen had trained as a nurse.

After retiring from 91亚色, he assumed the role of president of the Carswell Family Foundation where he supported causes across education, health care, science, engineering and the arts. Carswell鈥檚 philanthropic legacy at 91亚色 was profound.

Over decades of sustained giving, Carswell supported scholarships, observatory infrastructure, public science outreach and three endowed research chairs across the Faculties of Science and Health, and the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design.

His support was the driving force behind 91亚色鈥檚 Allan I. Carswell Observatory, home to the largest telescope on a Canadian university campus. The Helen Carswell Chair in Community Engaged Research in the Arts (2016), the Allan I. Carswell Chair for the Public Understanding of Astronomy (2018) and the Helen Carswell Research Chair in Dementia Care (2019) were established to promote research excellence, community engagement and knowledge mobilization.

In 2019, the Helen Carswell STEAM Program for Women was launched to honour Helen鈥檚 legacy as a nurse, entrepreneur and co-founder of Optech.

In recognition of his contributions to science and society, Carswell received numerous honours. He was inducted into the Order of Canada (2005), the Order of Ontario (2021), the University of Toronto Engineering Alumni Hall of Distinction (2006) and the Canadian Academy of Engineering (2011).

He received the John H. Chapman Award of Excellence (2006), Ernst & Young Ontario Entrepreneur of the Year (2009), the Volunteer Award from the Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists (2010), the C.D. Howe Award from the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (2010) and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012).

He was also appointed a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (1984) and a Fellow of the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (1982). In 2022, he was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Throughout his long and distinguished career, Carswell exemplified the integration of academic excellence, innovative leadership, public service, and philanthropy.

"He made exemplary and lasting contributions to Canadian science, technology and society at large and remained an enduring inspiration for future generations of scientists, innovators and community leaders at 91亚色 and beyond," says Philipps.

A celebration of life will be held at 91亚色, in the McEwen Auditorium, Schulich Executive Learning Centre, 111 Ian Macdonald Blvd. at 1:30 p.m. on April 19 with a reception to follow.

Click here to view the .

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91亚色 Cares United Way Campaign raises $111,021 /yfile/2026/02/27/york-cares-united-way-campaign-raises-111021/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:08:30 +0000 /yfile/?p=404267 91亚色 faculty and staff are making a difference in local communities through their donations to the 91亚色 Cares United Way Campaign.

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Each year, the 91亚色 community unites for the 91亚色 Cares United Way Campaign, raising funds to support individuals in local communities who are facing crisis.
United Way 91亚色 Cares thank you

The 2025 campaign, which ran from Nov. 5 to 30, was a success, raising $111,021.

Contributions from faculty and staff exemplifies 91亚色鈥檚 commitment to advancing positive change and building thriving communities where everyone benefits.

The campaign鈥檚 success was made possible by the hard work and dedication of many across the University. The 2025 91亚色 Cares United Way Campaign Committee, led by the Division of Advancement鈥檚 Amanda Stastook and Verle Thompson, engaged many volunteers across the University and were assisted by the following contributors: Susana Gajic-Bruyea, Louise Spencer, Pamela Mills, Alexander Huls, Vanessa Thompson, Mohini Jaggan, Isabelle Montagnier, Johanne Roberge, Diane Irvine, Sonia Politano, Partiban Giritharan and Ruth Green.

Funds raised during the campaign were directed to United Way GreaterToronto in support of social services and organizations in Peel, Toronto and 91亚色 Region, some of which directly impact members of the 91亚色 community.

To learn more about the positive changes made possible by supporting United Way Greater Toronto, visit 91亚色 Cares United Way Campaign.

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New scholarship opens pathways for Indigenous students at 91亚色 /yfile/2025/11/28/new-scholarship-opens-pathways-for-indigenous-students-at-york/ Fri, 28 Nov 2025 19:52:46 +0000 /yfile/?p=401858 The Brigitte Nolet Scholarship for Indigenous Pathways into Life Sciences, established by Roche Canada and Innovative Medicines Canada, supports 91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Health by advancing mentorship and land-based learning to help Indigenous students pursue careers in health and life sciences.

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The Brigitte Nolet Scholarship for Indigenous Pathways into Life Sciences will expand opportunities for Indigenous students in 91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Health, thanks to support from Roche Canada, a leading pharmaceutical company, and Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC), an industry association representing Canada鈥檚 research-based biopharmaceutical companies.

The scholarship, named for the president and CEO of Roche Canada Pharma and chair of the IMC board, offers financial support, mentorship and land-based learning experiences to help Indigenous students explore careers in the health sciences.

Nolet has long championed access to innovative medicines, stronger representation in industry leadership and equitable health care outcomes. Her work on global health initiatives, including expanding essential treatments in lower-income regions, reinforces her belief that diverse voices strengthen health systems and guides her vision for this scholarship.

鈥淭his initiative is deeply meaningful to me because it expands paths for communities to pursue careers in the life sciences and shape the future of health,鈥� she says. 鈥淏y supporting Indigenous students in exploring health and life sciences, we hope to build a more representative, conscious and connected health care ecosystem in Canada.鈥�

David Peters
Dean David Peters

鈥淲e鈥檙e grateful for this generous gift,鈥� says David Peters, dean of the Faculty of Health. 鈥淚t strengthens our work to support Indigenous students as they develop the skills, knowledge and relationships that prepare them to lead.鈥�

The Brigitte Nolet Scholarship arrives alongside several Faculty of Health initiatives aimed at broadening pathways for Indigenous learners. In September 2024 91亚色 signed a relationship agreement with the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council to advance Indigenous health priorities and to help shape planning for the University鈥檚 School of Medicine, scheduled to open in 2028; the partnership is intended to inform curriculum development, community engagement and planning for placements and career pathways.

The Faculty of Health's 2024鈥�28 strategic plan, Building a Healthy World for All, highlights social justice, reconciliation and inclusion as priorities across teaching, research and institutional culture, and it calls for integrating Indigenous ways of knowing into health-related learning.

The Faculty also works with the Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages and has added Indigenous educators specialized in health disciplines 鈥� for example, an Indigenous scholar appointment in the School of Nursing announced in October 2024 鈥� steps the Faculty says will strengthen Indigenous-led research and culturally grounded health education.

The Brigitte Nolet Scholarship will complement these programs and initiatives, positioning recipients and the Faculty of Health to advance health leadership, innovation and equity in Canada.

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How to make or process year-end donations in time for 2025 tax receipt /yfile/2025/11/28/how-to-make-or-process-year-end-donations-in-time-for-2025-tax-receipt/ Fri, 28 Nov 2025 18:43:29 +0000 /yfile/?p=401864 As the year comes to a close, the Division of Advancement is sharing information about how to receive and process donations before 2026.

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The year is quickly coming to a close, and hundreds of faculty, staff and retirees have already made their 2025 donation to 91亚色. The Division of Advancement thanks those who have chosen to create positive change at 91亚色 this year.

Faculty and staff receiving donations should forward any gifts received in their departments to Advancement Services (located in the West Office Building on 91亚色鈥檚 Keele Campus) by noon on Tuesday, Dec. 23 to ensure timely processing and receipting. Those expecting a credit card donation over the closure period should direct the donor to the .

To receive a receipt for 2025, all cheques must be accompanied by the original envelope postmarked on or before Dec. 31.

Advancement staff are preparing for a break over the holidays. The office will be closed from Wednesday, Dec. 24 to Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. While the office is closed, donations can be made in two ways:

  • by visiting the ; or
  • by telephone at 416-650-8210.

To ensure you receive a 2025 tax receipt for your donation, take note of the following requirements:

  • Donations must be received on or before Dec. 31, with the cheque or credit card authorization dated Dec. 31 or earlier. This includes donations made online and by telephone.
  • Mailed donations can be received in January 2026 but must have a valid postmark of Dec. 31 or earlier. Note that due to the Canada Post labour disruption, mailed donations may experience delays. Those donating are encouraged to use the online or telephone donation options to ensure timely processing.
  • Cheques must be made payable to 91亚色.

Happy holidays from the Division of Advancement.

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91亚色 celebrates exceptional staff at President鈥檚 Staff Recognition Awards听 /yfile/2025/11/05/york-university-celebrates-exceptional-staff-at-presidents-staff-recognition-awards/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 20:14:08 +0000 /yfile/?p=400907 Staff who embody the 91亚色 Universty spirit through their leadership, commitment and creative work were recognized at the annual awards program, held Nov. 3.

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Individuals and teams whose leadership, creativity and commitment to service strengthen 91亚色鈥檚 mission, vision and values were recognized Nov. 3 at the 2024 President鈥檚 Staff Recognition Awards. 

The annual awards provide an opportunity to celebrate meaningful contributions across the instutition, including student success, service excellence, community building and commitment to equity and inclusion. 

鈥淎s a leading institution committed to driving positive change through academic excellence, research, innovation and community engagement, 91亚色 depends on the dedication, passion and professionalism of our staff,鈥� says President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton. 鈥淵our contributions 鈥� especially during times of change and uncertainty 鈥� lift us, connect us and help us move forward together. My heartfelt congratulations to all nominees and recipients.鈥� 

The 2024 President's Staff Recognition Awards recipients and nominees 

Presidenta and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Shandana Khan, recipient of the Deborah Hobson 91亚色 Citizenship Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Shandana Khan
Deborah Hobson 91亚色 Citizenship Award

Established in honour of former vice-president enrollment and student services Deborah Hobson, this award is given to an individual who emulates Hobson鈥檚 energetic commitment to students and boundless enthusiasm for the 91亚色 community. Nominees for this award embody the University's spirit and use their creativity and imagination in support of the student community at 91亚色. 

Winner: Shandana Khan, administrative assistant, programs and student services, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Anesa J. Albert, associate director, graduate communications & digital engagement, Faculty of Graduate Studies
  • Claudia V. Bennett, experiential education program coordinator, , Student Welcome and Support Centre
  • Vanessa Ironside, program officer, k2i Academy, Lassonde School of Engineering
  • Ann Welsh, associate director, International Relations,   
Presidenta and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Richolette Freckleton, recipient of the DEDI Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Richolette Freckleton
Decolonization, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (DEDI) Award

This award, established by Lenton in 2023, recognizes staff who address decolonization, equity, diversity and inclusion at 91亚色 with passion, dedication and campus engagement. The award can recognize an individual or a team. Recipients are honoured for outstanding achievement in practice, events, policy, programs or other activities that foster equitable, sustainable and measurable change at 91亚色鈥檚 campuses. Efforts and initiatives reflect an intersectional social justice lens, especially for equity-deserving groups (e.g. women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and 2SLGBTQIA+ community members). The award recognizes ongoing work or outstanding accomplishments at a point in time. 

Winner: Richolette Freckleton, associate director, graduate research, scholarships & awards, Faculty of Graduate Studies 

Other nominees for this award: 

Presidenta and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Theresa Dinh, recipient of the Gary Brewer Emerging Leader Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Theresa Dinh
Gary Brewer Emerging Leader Award

Established in honour of former vice-president finance and administration Gary Brewer, the award recognizes and encourages early-career professionals who have demonstrated significant promise of leadership. It celebrates a staff member known for innovative and meaningful contributions to the effectiveness of their unit and has significantly contributed to the University鈥檚 commitment to excellence. 

Winner: Theresa Dinh, institute coordinator, Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Bhanu Priya Sharma, student engagement coordinator, LA&PS colleges
  • Tanzina Tahereen, associate director, faculty curriculum, Office of the Associate Dean, Programs (LA&PS) 
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with recipientd of the Harriet Lewis Team Award for Service
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Harriet Lewis Team Award for Service Excellence recipients
Harriet Lewis Team Award for Service Excellence

Established in honour of former University secretary and general counsel Harriet Lewis, this award recognizes excellence in service and support to students, faculty, staff and/or other service users.   

Winner: (AMPD) Performance Facilities Team听

  • Ian Albright, manager  
  • Kyle Derry, technician  
  • Kimberly Guidolin, events administrator 
  • Zach Kale, technician
  • Scott Rennick, front of house and box office services coordinator 
  • Victor Wolters, coordinator of technical services 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • English Department Administrative Staff 
  • LA&PS Faculty Research Office  
  • Network and Telecommunication Services Team   
  • Psychology Department Staff 
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Sonia Pettinella, recipient of The President鈥檚 Leadership Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Sonia Pettinella
The President鈥檚 Leadership Award

This award recognizes excellence in service to 91亚色. Individuals nominated for this award perform at a level that inspires professionalism, creativity and innovation across the University community.   

Winner: Sonia Pettinella, director, Integrated Resource Planning 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Caterina Elzbet, director and senior executive officer, Office of the Vice-President Advancement 
  • Helen Lee, director, transition team, School of Medicine, Provost's Office听
  • Sasa Nestorovic, director, Bookstore, Printing & Mailing Services 
  • Amanda Rodrigues, director, strategic enrolment, LA&PS 
  • Natacha Sam, director, budgets and planning, Budgets & Asset Management 
  • Ulya Yigit, director of computing, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science 
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Joe Young, recipient of the Phyllis Clark Campus Service Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Joe Young
Phyllis Clark Campus Service Award

Established in honour of former vice-president finance and administration Phyllis Clark, the award recognizes a 91亚色 employee who has made outstanding contributions to the University in terms of efficiency, cleanliness, safety, security or other campus/plant services.   

Winner: Joe Young, supervisor, Community Safety Department 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Miguel Rivero, custodian, Day Shift Custodial, Property Management-Facilities 
  • Sandy Simonetta, administrative assistant, Advancement Services and Operations 
Ronald Kent Medal

This award was established in 1979 by President Emeritus H. Ian Macdonald. The award鈥檚 namesake, Ronald Kent, had a unique personal commitment to the University showcased through years of dedicated service. His sincerity and enthusiasm inspired colleagues across the University. He was considered a true ambassador for 91亚色. A dedicated member of Macdonald's staff, Kent passed away suddenly in the late 1970s.   

Winner: Magy Baket, student success and academic advisor, LA&PS (note: photo not available)

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Leonard Chow, assistant manager, Operation & Account Management, University Services Centre
  • Anderson Coward, communications and marketing specialist, Faculty of Education 
  • Celeta Irvin, undergraduate program administrator, Gender, Sexuality & Women鈥檚 Studies, LA&PS
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Louisa Zaffino, recipient of the President鈥檚 Voice of 91亚色 Award
President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton with Louisa Zaffino
President鈥檚 Voice of 91亚色 Award

The 鈥淰oice of 91亚色鈥� is awarded to a staff member who makes the first contact with a visitor or community member. The quality of responsiveness and the genuine desire to assist in the most difficult or sensitive situations is essential to 91亚色鈥檚 reputation. Nominees for the this award are employed as front-line staff who have regular interactions with the 91亚色 community. This award was established in 1999 by President Emerita Lorna R. Marsden.   

Winner: Louisa Zaffino, executive assistant, Facility Services 

Other nominees for this award: 

  • Hazel Beecham, coordinator, Institute for Technoscience and Society
  • Jacqueline Selman, undergraduate students coordinator, Social Science, LA&PS 
  • Tina Sposato, executive assistant, Vice-President Research & Innovation 
  • Neal Stephenson, solutions architect, University Information Technology

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