Alexander is a music director of the Kindred Spirits Orchestra and Orion Symphony Orchestra, and artistic director of the Markham Contemporary Music Festival and the International Music Competition. Having led hundreds of orchestral and operatic performances, he has built a reputation for championing artistic excellence, cultural exchange and opportunities for emerging musicians. Through his leadership, mentorship and community initiatives, he has helped expand access to the arts for more than 1,000 young people, including neurodiverse youth, at-risk youth and students from low-income families. 

“For more than three decades, Maestro Kristian Alexander has dedicated his life to advancing the role of music in education and social connection,” said Brandon Vickerd, dean, (AMPD).  

“Through his work as a conductor, educator, scholar and humanitarian, he has enriched the cultural life in Canada and around the world, inspiring audiences, artists and communities alike.” 

Addressing graduands from AMPD and the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, Alexander reflected on a career spent building artistic institutions and creating new opportunities for musicians and audiences alike. 

He recalled his time as a young conducting student who envisioned a different kind of orchestra at a time when the practice was largely defined by tradition and established structures. 

"I wanted to develop an orchestra that could make its own artistic decisions, one that could operate according to a different model," he said. "There was no such orchestra, so I decided to create one." 

What began as an idea eventually grew into an internationally recognized organization, though not without setbacks and moments of self-doubt. The experience, he said, taught him lessons about perseverance, leadership and innovation. 

"You don't always have to find your place in an existing institution," he said. "Sometimes you can create the institution yourself, and sometimes the fact that something is difficult is precisely why it must be done." 

Almost 20 years later, he applied the same philosophy when he founded the Kindred Spirits Orchestra, despite warnings that the venture was too ambitious or unlikely to succeed. 

"When you believe in an idea, you must have the courage to make it happen and trust that others will join you," he said. 

Alexander noted that creating something new is only one part of the process; equally important is ensuring it can grow, adapt and continue to evolve through the contributions of others. 

"As graduates, you have enormous opportunities to create, but creation is not about keeping something under your care forever,” he said. 

“There comes a point when the most important thing you can do for what you have created is to allow others to shape it, to carry it forward, to make it their own.” 

That philosophy informed his advice to graduands preparing to enter an uncertain and rapidly changing world. Rather than feeling constrained by traditional career paths, he encouraged them to recognize the possibilities that emerge when existing models no longer meet people's needs. Alexander encouraged graduands to think big and to see uncertainty as an opportunity for innovation. 

“You have spent all of these years learning how to create, to imagine, to question, to experiment, to make something real,” he said. “Now you are standing at the beginning of something higher. A world that is waiting for you.” 

Alexander concluded by urging graduands to trust their ideas, take risks and embrace the responsibility of building the future. 

"When you leave here today, carry two questions with you: What is missing, and what could I create?" he said. "Don't wait for permission. Don't wait for the right moment. Don't wait until you feel completely ready. 

"Create what doesn't exist. Nurture it. Build it. Give it everything you have." 

The post Kristian Alexander challenges grads to build the future  appeared first on YFile.

During a career at 91��ɫ spanning more than two decades, Skinner contributed to the growth of communication studies at the University while developing an extensive body of scholarship on Canadian broadcasting, media policy and the political economy of communications.

Skinner was an associate professor in the Department of Communication & Media Studies, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, before retiring in 2025.

Skinner's interest in communication and media students ignited in 1984, after leaving a job as a car salesman to finish his BA at Simon Fraser University (SFU). There, he discovered media policy and was taught by key figures in the political economy of media in Canada, such as Robert Hackett and Richard Gruneau.

He earned a bachelor degree in communication, and went on to complete a master's in media studies from Concordia University and in 1997, completed his PhD dissertation at SFU which focused on the political economy of English Canadian broadcasting. In 2025, he recently published a book on this work, titled A Political Economy of Canadian Broadcasting: Public Good versus Private Profit (UBC Press).

Skinner played a pivotal role developing the field of communication and media studies in Canada. He founded the Journalism program at Thompson Rivers University. In 2002 he joined 91��ɫ's Department of Social Science, and later helped to establish 91��ɫ's Department of Communication & Media Studies as well as the Joint Graduate Program in Communication & Culture with Toronto Metropolitan University.

From 2009 to 2012, he served as founding Chair of the Department of Communication & Media Studies, where he helped establish the department and shape its academic direction during its early years. He took other administrative roles during his time at the University, including MA coordinator and University senator. He also served as director of the Canadian Media Research Consortium from 2010 to 2018.

His scholarly work examined some of the central questions surrounding Canadian media, including the relationship between public broadcasting, private capital, regulation and media ownership.

Skinner was among the authors of Media and Communication in Canada: Networks, Culture, Technology, Audience, considered a defining resource in the field for its use as an introductory textbook at universities and colleges.

"David’s vision was that Canadian perspectives on media and communication are central to Canadian democratic ideals and to fostering Canada as a nation independent of big geopolitical powers," reads a message from colleagues at 91��ɫ's Department of Communications & Media Studies. "Needless to say, such contribution is as timely as ever today."

His other work reflected a sustained interest in how media systems can serve communities and the public interest. His publications included the co-edited Alternative Media in Canada and work addressing community media, media activism, journalism, ownership and media reform.

That work continued late into his career. In 2025, Skinner published A Political Economy of Canadian Broadcasting: Public Good versus Private Profit, which traces the development of anglophone public broadcasting in Canada from the early era of the telegraph through the digital age.

Skinner also focused considerable attention on students. He took part in departmental celebrations recognizing undergraduate achievement, such as presenting the Penny Jolliffe Award to outstanding students and taught the first year introductory course up until his retirement.

"David was a mentor and champion who taught how to navigate the complexities of the profession," reads the message shared by colleagues. "David was always about community, always about conciliation and bringing people together."

After retiring from 91��ɫ in early 2026, he returned to live in B.C. with his wife Jennefer Laidley, a 91��ɫ MES alum. The couple tragically died in a snorkelling accident while on holiday in the South Pacific.

With files from members of 91��ɫ's Department of Communication & Media Studies

The post Passings: David Skinner appeared first on YFile.

The title recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to teaching and research, alongside exemplary service to the University community. 

Ferrara will be honoured during an Oct. 15 convocation ceremony. 

The recognition, she says, represents a full circle moment. "I am deeply honoured to receive the University Professorship. That it comes from my alma mater, where my Canadian journey began as a student, gives it special significance." A professor at the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS), Ferrara has built a career defined by excellence in teaching, research and institutional leadership. She has taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses, guided by a teaching philosophy that emphasizes analytical reasoning, problem-solving skills and the application of economic theory to real-world challenges. 

Her contributions to pedagogy outside the classroom include the redesign of 91��ɫ's Research Seminar in Economics to incorporate community-engaged learning, which creates opportunities for students to apply economic theory to real-world challenges through partnerships with external organizations. Ferrara also played a key role in developing the Diploma in Risk and Insurance Management (DRIM) and the Hybrid Academia-Industry Internships via Virtual Engagement (HAIVE) programs to foster experiential learning and partnerships between students and the community.

Ferrara's extensive teaching record also reflects a sustained commitment to mentorship. Through the Directed Reading and Directed Research courses, Ferrara has consistently invested in undergraduate and graduate student success, helping them develop independence as thinkers and researchers. Both students and colleagues recognize her dedication to mentorship, and commend her generosity in offering guidance, encouragement and support while fostering a collegial, engaged and intellectually vibrant academic community. 

Ferrara has also made contributions to 91��ɫ through service and leadership. She served as undergraduate program director following the merger that created the unified Department of Economics, chaired the department from 2016 to 2019, and later served as vice-chair and Chair of the LA&PS Faculty Council. Her service has included work on numerous departmental, Faculty and University committees, as well as leadership roles within the 91��ɫ Faculty Association (YUFA) and the Risk and Insurance Studies Centre (RISC). 

An internationally recognized scholar, Ferrara's research has advanced understanding of environmental economics, public economics, health economics and the economics of risk and insurance. Her work, which examines how economic incentives interact with social, psychological and institutional factors, has informed research and policy discussions on topics including waste management, recycling, charitable giving, insurance participation and public policy design. Her research has appeared in leading journals and has been supported through numerous major external research grants. 

"I believe that an academic career carries both the opportunity and the responsibility to have a meaningful impact on students’ learning, on the advancement of society and on the vitality of the University and the wider community,” she says. “I have sought to remain faithful to this conviction throughout my career, and I would like to think that this recognition reflects, in some measure, the contribution I have aspired to make." 

The post 91��ɫ economics scholar earns honorific professorship appeared first on YFile.

Presented by the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC), the awards honour individuals whose work has made a significant impact in communities across Ontario. This year’s awards are presented to Distinguished Research Professor Carl E. James, student Tonny Muzira and alum Rana Espiritu Nasrazadani. 

Lifetime Achievement Award: Carl E. James, Distinguished Research Professor and Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora at 91��ɫ 

Awarded to an individual for significant contributions over their lifetime to advance human rights. 

One of Canada's leading scholars on race, racialization and education, James has has spent decades examining the experiences of marginalized communities and the barriers they face in education and society. 

His research has shaped public policy and education practices across Canada. Notably, his report Towards Race Equity in Education: The Schooling of Black Students in the Greater Toronto Area helped spotlight inequities in Ontario's education system and informed discussions about academic streaming and student success. 

James holds the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora at 91��ɫ's Faculty of Education and has served as equity advisor to the dean. Through community partnerships and the national Securing Black Futures initiative, he works to improve educational experiences and expand pathways to post-secondary education for Black students.

“It is always a privilege to be recognized for contributions to community – particularly when the contribution helps to advance human rights and social justice," James says. "I am pleased to receive this recognition knowing that others have worked with me to make this possible.” 

The Lifetime Achievement Award adds to numerous honours recognizing James' impact as a scholar, educator and community leader. His influence extends beyond research and is reflected in the generations of students, educators and community members he has inspired. 

Distinguished Service Award: Tonny Muzira, Bachelor of Public Administration

Awarded for outstanding contribution to advancing human rights.  

Muzira is an organizational policy and development specialist whose work focuses on housing, public health equity and community empowerment, particularly for Black immigrant and refugee communities in Ontario. 

During the 2023 Toronto refugee housing crisis, Muzira helped coordinate advocacy efforts that secured a federal commitment for emergency housing relief for hundreds of refugee claimants sleeping outdoors. He has since contributed policy recommendations to the City of Toronto on chronic homelessness. 

As co-founder of the Centre for Black Development Options Canada (CBDOC), Muzira has championed issues affecting Black immigrants and refugees, including organizing Toronto's first International Conference on Black Immigrants and Refugees in 2024. His work also supports HIV prevention and equitable access to sexual and reproductive health services for Black newcomers. 

"Receiving the Daniel G. Hill Human Rights Award is a profound honour," says Muzira, a student at the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. "Daniel Hill showed that human rights are built through steady work in our communities, and I accept this award on behalf of the refugees, newcomers, youth and colleagues at the Centre for Black Development Options Canada who do that work every day. Housing, health and belonging are not charity. They are rights, and we will keep fighting until every person in Ontario can claim them." 

Young Leader Award: Rana Espiritu Nasrazadani (BA ’20, MPPAL ‘22), 91��ɫ Senate representative, 91��ɫ Alumni Board member 

Awarded to a person under age 30 for their outstanding contribution to advancing human rights.  

Nasrazadani is a disability rights advocate and policy advisor whose work focuses on accessibility, human rights and education. 

Drawing from her lived experience and professional expertise, she works to advance the rights of people with disabilities and address systemic barriers to equity and inclusion. Through her advocacy and policy development work, she has led initiatives and informed policies that strengthen accessibility, challenge ableism and foster inclusion in education and public policy.  

Recognized for her contributions to disability rights and accessibility, Nasrazadani was named one of 91��ɫ's inaugural Top 30 Alumni Under 30 in 2021. An active member of 91��ɫ's alumni community and a Senate representative, she has contributed to several University accessibility initiatives, including advising on the accessible design of the 91��ɫ Markham Campus. 

"I am deeply honoured to receive this award," says Nasrazadani. "To be recognized alongside such inspiring leaders and changemakers is truly humbling. This recognition is deeply personal to me, reflecting both the progress made in advancing accessibility, inclusion and disability rights, and the work that continues ahead." 

The post 91��ɫ community members sweep provincial human rights awards  appeared first on YFile.

Assistant Professor Maxxine Rattner and teaching assistant Pablo Roy-Rojas have been named 2026 recipients of the Ian Greene Award for Teaching Excellence presented by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS).

The annual award recognizes educators whose impact fosters student achievement, enriches learning experience and strengthens engagement in learning environments where students feel supported, challenged and encouraged to succeed.

Named after School of Public Policy & Administration Professor Emeritus Ian Greene, the award was established by former students to honour his dedication to teaching excellence and meaningful learning.

Nominations are submitted by students and are reviewed and adjudicated by the Student Council of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (SCOLAPS).

Maxxine Rattner, School of Social Work

Rattner is recognized for her ability to make complex material accessible, her fairness in assessment and her dedication to supporting students beyond the classroom.

Students described Rattner as a thoughtful mentor whose guidance helped define their academic journeys. They highlighted her commitment to building community and her ongoing involvement in workshops, research committees and student association initiatives that enrich the student experience.

“I am really moved by the students who took the time to nominate me and I am also grateful to the committee of students who invested time over the summer to review nominations,” says Rattner. “SCOLAPS as a whole is a dedicated group, invested in fostering connections among students and between students and faculty. I am inspired by their efforts and passion.”

Through her teaching, mentorship and service, Rattner helps cultivate the supportive learning environment that enables students to thrive academically and professionally.

Pablo Roy-Rojas, Department of Social Science

Roy-Rojas is recognized for his fairness and for consistently offering constructive feedback and making challenging concepts accessible to students.

Students praised his subject expertise and noted that he encourages participation and values effort, helping create an environment where learners feel comfortable sharing ideas and asking questions.

“I am deeply grateful to receive the Ian Greene Award for Teaching Excellence and I accept it on behalf of the students who have shaped my teaching as much as I have tried to shape their learning,” says Roy-Rojas.

Roy-Rojas views teaching as a collaborative process in which students and instructors learn from one another. Some of the most meaningful lessons in his tutorials emerge through dialogue, when classroom discussions connect theory with students' lived experiences and communities.

“I hope to keep teaching in a way that treats every learner as a thinker and every classroom as a place where emancipation can take root," he says. "In those moments, teacher and student learn together.”

By fostering curiosity, critical thinking and active participation, Roy-Rojas helps students develop the analytical skills and confidence needed to engage with complex social issues both inside and beyond the classroom.

With files from Jessica Kubin

The post LA&PS recognizes outstanding educators for teaching excellence appeared first on YFile.

The recommendation, approved by the Board Executive Committee on Sept. 29, was made following a national and international search process.

Dr. Srivastava is dean, Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS), professor of sociology and founding director of the Global Centre for Climate Action (GCAC) research centre at OCAD University. Previously a professor of sociology, gender studies and cultural studies at Queen’s University, Dr. Srivastava was director of the Gender Studies Program at University of Toronto Mississauga from 2002-03.  

Professor Srivastava’s 2024 book, Are You Calling Me a Racist? Why We Need to Stop Talking About Race and Start Making Real Antiracist Change (New 91��ɫ Press), won the 2025 Book Award from the Canadian Sociology Association. It analyzes the emotional and moral landscape of dialogues about race, details the pitfalls of conventional approaches to equity and proposes alternative models to create more substantive and impactful change.  

In keeping with her leadership and interdisciplinary scholarly work on the sociology of race, emotion and organizations, Professor Srivastava has prioritized meaningful equity and decolonization education efforts for students and faculty at OCAD U, including curricular revision and reassessment of evaluation methods for courses on Indigenous content, foundational skills and experiential learning.  

In her role as dean of arts and science, Professor Srivastava has been involved in strategic planning, organizational change, collective bargaining and curricular innovation, and served as acting vice-president academic and provost for four months in early 2024. She achieved financial sustainability for many programs in FAS and implemented an iterative, consensus-based model for decision-making through which she was able to champion innovative approaches to decolonizing and diversifying pedagogies.  

Professor Srivastava established the GCAC to create cultural, social and creative interventions in the climate action sphere, working with artists, designers and scholars to imagine new approaches to sustainability, climate justice and decolonization. She garnered EU funding for a public projection event as part of Nuit Blanche 2025 and has been able to secure major corporate funding to continue the work of the centre. In her prior work as an activist, Professor Srivastava was director of a national environmental campaign for Greenpeace Canada, active in community radio and environmental education, and supported Indigenous, labour and feminist social movements. She holds a master’s in environmental studies from 91��ɫ and a PhD in sociology from University of Toronto.   

I extend my thanks to the members of the search committee for their commitment and guidance throughout this process. I also am deeply grateful to Professor Kathryn McPherson, whose steady leadership as interim dean, LA&PS has and will continue to guide the Faculty until Professor Srivastava assumes her role.  

Sincerely, 

Lisa Philipps 
Interim President and Vice-Chancellor 

The post Appointment of dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies  appeared first on YFile.

Each year since 2017, 91��ɫ helps students begin their university experience with fewer financial barriers by awarding to incoming students, complementing the scholarships, grants and bursaries available across the University.

For the second consecutive year, one recipient was selected from each of 91��ɫ's three campuses: Keele, Glendon and Markham. Valued at more than $7,000, the award offers meaningful support as recipients begin post-secondary studies.

Meet the 2026 recipients, read their stories and watch a video to see their reactions to winning free tuition.

Markham Campus: Temi Ahmed ()

When Ahmed began exploring university programs, she was looking for one that aligned with a long-standing fascination with space and technology.

"I've been really interested in space for a long time, and I like working with computers," she says. "I hope to build a rocket someday in the future."

Her search eventually led her to 91��ɫ's Space Engineering program, where she hopes to turn that passion into a future career.

As she settles into her first year, Ahmed is excited to immerse herself in her studies and take the first steps toward her career goals.

Winning free tuition, she says, was unexpected. After being invited to what she thought was a routine student experience interview, Ahmed says she had no idea what was waiting for her.

"I wasn't thinking I'd win free tuition," she says, explaining that when she opened the letter, she was in shock. "I saw 'tuition,' so I was like, 'Oh my God. Is this what I think it is?'"

The award will make a meaningful difference for both Ahmed and her family. Soon after learning the news, she called her parents and sister to share it with them. Their reactions, she says, were a mix of excitement and disbelief.

"My dad didn't believe me," she laughs. "He was really surprised, and my sister was really happy too."

Keele Campus: Alexandrea Ursino (Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies)

When Ursino developed an interest in law during high school, she began looking for a program that would allow her to explore the field from a broader perspective. 91��ɫ's Law & Society program stood out as the ideal fit, offering the opportunity to examine legal issues through social, political and cultural lenses.

91��ɫ appealed to Ursino because of the possibilities available inside and outside the classroom. As a commuter from Woodbridge, being close to home while still having access to a large campus and a wide range of ways to get involved was a key driver in her decision.

"I chose 91��ɫ because of the community and the opportunities that they have," she says. "I liked how it was so diverse and how they had a lot of programs that I could choose from, and a lot of clubs."

As she begins her first year, Ursino is eager to expand her knowledge through university-level coursework and discover new perspectives through her studies.

"I'm looking forward to what I'll be learning and what content the professors will provide me with," she says. "I'm excited to get into the assignments, get into the readings and learn a lot."

The excitement of starting university was made even greater when Ursino learned she had been selected as this year's Keele Campus free tuition recipient. Caught completely off guard by the announcement, she says the award came as a welcome surprise.

"It means it's a super big gift, a big surprise," she says. "Free tuition gives me the ability to pursue my goals of having a good first year, to focus more on my education and my growth as I begin this new chapter of my life."

Glendon Campus: Xander Venne (Ethics and Political Philosophy)

Venne's connection to Glendon runs deeper than academics; the campus is part of his family history.

"My parents actually both went here to the Glendon campus and they met here," says Venne. "So, I've been hearing great stories about it my whole life."

Now in his first weeks as a student, he says he has already experienced the close-knit and diverse community that drew him there.

"I've been able to make a wide variety of friends from across the world, which I've really enjoyed," he says.

Venne is eager to embrace the opportunities that come with university life, from new experiences and friendships to expanding his knowledge and developing new skills.

Winning free tuition, he says, will make a meaningful difference for both him and his family, easing financial pressures and allowing him to focus more fully on his studies.

"It means a lot for me and for my family," he says.

Watch the video below for more.

The post 91��ɫ students awarded free first-year tuition appeared first on YFile.

The RSC presented 17 awards to eminent Canadian scholars, artists and scientists in recognition of their outstanding contributions to knowledge and impact in Canada and around the world.

The Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize was also awarded to 24 law students who demonstrate exceptional potential to advance equity and social justice in Canada.

Adele Perry – J.B. Tyrrell Historical Medal

Perry received her MA (’92) and PhD (’98) from 91��ɫ’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. She is the recipient of this medal, awarded for outstanding work contributing to the history of Canada.

A leading historian, Perry has helped reshape understandings of colonialism in Canada. She serves as Distinguished Professor of history and women’s and gender studies at the University of Manitoba and directs the Centre for Human Rights Research.

For more than 20 years, her work has focused on bringing together extensive archival research with feminist and decolonial perspectives to explore how history can contribute to a more equitable society.

Christina Rajkumar – Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize

Rajkumar earned her JD (’26) from 91��ɫ’s . She is the recipient of this award, presented annually to one graduating student from each Canadian law school who is most likely to influence equity and social justice in Canada or globally.

Her commitment to social justice is reflected in a range of roles, including advocating for individuals facing social assistance and health-related issues through Parkdale Community Legal Services, examining mental health cases at CAMH and supporting youth-focused legal education programs with Law in Action Within Schools and the Ontario Justice Education Network.

Rajkumar is now articling with the Ministry of the Attorney General's Justice Centres initiative.

The post 91��ɫ alumni earn Royal Society of Canada awards appeared first on YFile.

The pair are part of a writing and editing team to receive the 2026 Thomas D. Clark Medallion – an award presented annually for books that enrich understanding of Kentucky's history, culture and people – for .

Co-edited by Wilburn Hayden Jr., professor emeritus and senior scholar in 91��ɫ's School of Social Work, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, the anthology brings together scholars, writers and artists in an interdisciplinary exploration of Black life in Appalachia.

The project builds on decades of scholarship examining race, identity and community and is a successor to the landmark 1985 collection Blacks in Appalachia, which helped bring national attention to the socioeconomic, cultural and political experiences of Black Appalachians.

"Our anthology is designed for the general public with an academic bent featuring chapters, essays and photos by four editors as well as additional 25 contributors," he says. "There are folks today that hold to the notion that Appalachia is a region of white people only. This collection documents the real-world Appalachian history and contemporary times of the existence of Black people within the region."

The award highlights the book’s contribution to broadening public understanding of the region’s diverse history and populations – often portrayed through a narrow lens. Drawing on scholarship, photography, personal narratives and creative work, the collection documents the experiences of Black Appalachians while exploring themes of identity, migration, discrimination, memory and community.

Wilburn Hayden Jr.’s chapter "Appalachian African American: Black Identity" traces the historical development of Black identity within Appalachia and examines the social and cultural connections that have shaped Black communities in the region.

"The essential element to the Black Appalachian identity binds Black people to the region and secures our position as one of the many unique populations in Appalachia," he explains.

In addition to its interdisciplinary approach, the book also became an opportunity for intergenerational collaboration. Among the contributors is Donovan Hayden, son of Wiburn Hayden Jr. and recent 91��ɫ master’s graduate in theatre and performance studies.

His chapter is an essay that recreates a conversation between three authors reflecting on their memories of the Black southern food chitlins (chitterlings). He blends his sociology and playwriting background to highlight how the authors use this unique food to explore race, poverty and growing up in the Appalachia.

According to Wilburn Hayden Jr., the chapter emerged organically from conversations among contributors. His son’s essay, he notes, “was developed on his own from an email thread with the other co-authors. I was surprised when the other co-authors decided to include it.”

For Donovan Hayden, the essay offered an opportunity to recognize the work of his father and other authors.

"I thought it was important to reflect back the people who worked so hard on this project. The three men have dedicated their lives to telling Black Appalachian stories. It felt only right to include this quirky and unfiltered exchange as another story in that history," he says.

The recognition from the Thomas D. Clark Foundation, say father and son, underscores the significance of that work and its contribution to ongoing discussions about race, place, culture and belonging.

The post 91��ɫ U father-son collab helps earn award for Black Appalachian anthology appeared first on YFile.

The new members bring diverse expertise spanning business, technology, law, health and student leadership.

Helen Brennagh, non-academic staff, has been appointed to a one-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. She serves as manager, learning technology services, University Information Technology, and has worked at 91��ɫ for over 15 years.

Andy Chan has been appointed to a four-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2030. He is a partner at Miller Thomson and Chair of the firm’s International Business Group, where he practices corporate law with a focus on acquisitions, investments and contested transactions. He has been recognized in various capacities, including by Lexpert and Best Lawyer, and is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He is a 91��ɫ alum (JD ’00).

Michael Eubanks has been appointed to a four-year term from April 1, 2026 to June 30, 2030. He is executive vice-president and chief information officer of goeasy Ltd., bringing more than 30 years of experience across the retail, financial services and technology sectors. He is a 91��ɫ alum (BA '93).

Lucy Iacovelli has been appointed to a four-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2030. She is the Canadian managing partner, tax and chief administrative officer at KPMG Law LLP, bringing more than 30 years of experience in insurance tax planning, corporate reorganizations, mergers and acquisitions, and tax dispute resolution. She is a 91��ɫ alum (BAS ’90).

Peter Marrone has been appointed to a four-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2030. He is chairman and CEO of Allied Gold Corporation and previously served as executive chairman of Yamana Gold Inc., which he founded in 2003. He brings more than 35 years of experience in mining, business and capital markets. He is a 91��ɫ alum (LLB ’84).

Arvin Moradi, an undergraduate student, has been appointed to a two-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028. He is a fourth-year student in the Honours Kinesiology & Health Science program in the Faculty of Health and currently serves on the 91��ɫ Senate. He advocates for affordability, student well-being and campus safety.

Alicia Pinter, non-academic staff, has been appointed to a two-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028. She is executive assistant in the Office of the Vice-President, Division of Equity, People & Culture, and has worked at 91��ɫ for 20 years. She is co-founder and inaugural president of the 91��ɫ Black Staff Network.

Peter Tsasis, Senate member, has been appointed to a two-year term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028. He is a professor of management in the Faculty of Health and the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, and a member of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. His research focuses on health care systems and organizational change.

“91��ɫ is fortunate to welcome such a talented and diverse group of leaders to the Board of Governors,” says Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps. “I am grateful to each of them for their willingness to serve and for their commitment to supporting 91��ɫ’s mission and community.”

Together, the new members bring a breadth of knowledge, experience and perspectives that will support the Board of Governors in its oversight of the University and its ongoing commitment to advancing 91��ɫ’s priorities.

The post 91��ɫ welcomes eight new members to its Board of Governors appeared first on YFile.