Pauline Courteille is the Assistant Director of the Mortara Center for International Studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC. Born and raised in Normandy, France, she is a first-generation university graduate and an international management professional focused on overcoming complex organizational challenges. She spent the 2017-2018 academic year at Glendon as part of the Dual Master's in Public and International Affairs (MPIA) degree program with Sciences Po Strasbourg.

What do you do in your current job?

Since February 2024, I've served as the Mortara Center's only full-time administrator, one woman wearing many hats: lead strategist, event planner, student team leader, financial officer, office manager, procurement officer, and occasional crisis solver. Working closely with the Director, I develop the center's strategy, programs, and activities while ensuring its smooth day-to-day operation.

No day is ever really the same in our small part of campus. Recently, my center celebrated its 20th anniversary. For the anniversary, I curated an exhibition at the university library, helped put together a commemorative video, organized a high-level event with conversations about international affairs, and hosted a sit-down dinner with Speaker Emerita of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. I also had the privilege to support the Academic Council on the United Nations System (an organization housed at my center) during their annual meeting in Nairobi, Kenya. It was a unique opportunity to experience an international conference from behind the scenes.

One of the highlights of my role is managing our team of nine exceptional student workers and seeing them grow. I love being part of their university experience and success as a “campus boss.” Chatting with these students also makes me reflect on my own university experience.

What from your time at Glendon has a lasting impact?

Professor Francis Garon's Policy Process class left an indelible mark on my professional approach. The briefing notes we prepared in duos, I was paired with a Canadian student who taught me how to conduct research collaboratively and propose actionable solutions to decision-makers. This skill has proven invaluable throughout my career. I went back to my class material recently to advise Georgetown students on how to pitch their club proposals to University leadership.

I also cherished the combination of rigorous academic classes with Professors Elaine Coburn, Nicholas-Guillaume Martineau, Miloud Chennoufi, Joanna Robinson, Ian Roberge, and others, alongside the “Weekly Colloquium: Canada and its Place in the World”. That round wooden room where practitioners shared their real-life experiences with us bridged theory and practice beautifully.

I did not take the elective class that the late, great Director Annie Demirjian taught, but she was an inspiring and warm head of the program, even to those who were not directly her students. I cannot write a piece about my time at Glendon without mentioning this incredible woman and role model.

Understanding the Canadian system has been particularly valuable as a European now established in the USA. Glendon provided both an introduction to North America (yes, there are many common points when coming from Europe!) and insight into where Canadian and American systems differ, particularly regarding national identity and political structures. Even though I haven't been back to Canada since 2018, my experience at Glendon anchors my life in Washington, DC.

What was your path before Glendon and after?

My path from Normandy to Washington has taken me across five countries and seven cities, each stop building on the last. Before Glendon, I was an undergraduate student at Sciences Po Strasbourg and studied abroad at Vilnius University in Lithuania.

After Glendon, I returned to graduate studies in Strasbourg, first, and then Paris. While studying, I worked for local governments, focusing on international projects and human resources policies. After graduation, in 2020, I moved to Brussels, Belgium, to intern at the European Parliament. I was subsequently hired as an assistant implementing HR processes, then promoted to administrator in 2022, leading interdepartmental teams on external communication and outreach practices, before moving to the USA and my current role at Georgetown.

Your advice for current/prospective students?

Dare to apply, enjoy the ride, and connect with the program’s educators.

Navigating education and career paths is stressful. As a first-generation university graduate, I know how daunting international programs can feel, but the Glendon School of Public and International Affairs is a welcoming community that will encourage your growth.

My advice is quite elementary: take advantage of the unique opportunities that come with being a student! Read, write, speak, get feedback, grow! Go to office hours, email with questions. Very few bosses will ever care as much about your growth as your professors do. Unlike in the professional environment, where you’re promoting a broader mission, at school, your personal success is the core mission. So, connect with the educators, your peers, and the broader Glendon community.

Also, have fun! I lived on campus at Wood Residence and loved: the drumming circle and Tim Hortons sweets, studying by those large windows in the Centre of Excellence building, watching snow fall, walking through the Glendon forest, and long bilingual conversations with friends from all over the world.

The post Meet Pauline Courteille (MPIA 2019) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Glendon College alumnus John A. Olah (BA ’70, JD ’73) and his family have established a $100,000 endowment to support students seeking to expand their academic horizons through international study.

When John Olah first stepped into Glendon Hall in the 1970s, he was unsure of where his life and his education would lead. What began as a tentative start evolved into a lifelong connection with Glendon College.

"In high school, I was an average student. I didn’t see my potential," he recalls. "But when I arrived at Glendon, it opened my eyes to big ideas and a much larger universe. I discovered my interests, my potential—I realized I could contribute."

It was Glendon’s collaborative and holistic approach to education that nurtured John’s mind, body, and spirit. He credits the college with instilling in him a ‘fire in the belly’ mentality and recalls the lasting influence of professors like Sidney Goldberg, who inspired his pursuit of justice, and Dean George Tatum, who taught him the importance of building fitness and wellness into a balanced life.

"Glendon instilled an important life lesson in me," John says. "To try to be a Renaissance person, someone who embraces a broad view of life, not just academically, but culturally and physically as well."

John and his wife, Annie, share a philosophy of giving forged by formative experiences. John’s family fled Hungary during the 1956 Russian invasion, while Annie grew up in post-war Hong Kong. Both found freedom and opportunity in Canada, a country that welcomed them with open arms and allowed them to fulfill their dreams. That sense of gratitude now fuels their desire to give back.

In 2025, the Olah family established the Olah Family International żìČ„ÊÓÆ” Award, an endowed bursary that will provide financial support to third- and fourth-year Glendon students participating in study-abroad programs in France, Belgium, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom.

"This donation is, in part, a tribute to my parents," John says. "They made the courageous and difficult decision to leave everything behind in Hungary and start anew in this wonderful country. Their sacrifice laid the foundation for the opportunities my family and I have been fortunate to enjoy. It is also a tribute to my late beautiful wife, Annie, whose love, never ending support and encouragement made this award possible.”

The award is a true family effort. John’s brother, Andrew, and a cousin have also contributed to the bursary, reinforcing the family’s shared commitment to global education.

"We are deeply grateful to John Olah for his generous support of Glendon students through this new endowed award," says Glendon College Principal Marco Fiola. "His gift not only honours the spirit of global education that defines Glendon, but it also directly supports students who wish to study abroad in leading institutions. This is a lasting investment in our students’ potential and in the future of public service and law in Canada and beyond."

Launching in the 2026–2027 academic year, the Olah Family International żìČ„ÊÓÆ” Award reflects John’s belief that exposure to diverse cultures and philosophies is essential to developing informed, thoughtful democratic leaders. It will empower students to broaden their worldview through study at some of the world’s greatest learning institutions.

The post Supporting Global Scholars: The Olah Family’s Gift to Glendon appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Pathway(s): Business, Finance and Big Data.

Title: Technology Sales Leader, IBM.

The world is getting smaller every day. Technology’s rapid evolution continues to bring us closer together — something Tim Wilshaw has fully embraced over his 27 years and counting at IBM. With a passion for meeting new people, visiting new destinations and discovering new opportunities, he has built a longstanding, borderless career by cultivating relationships with clients and colleagues worldwide and solving problems through technology.

"My career at IBM has taken me all around the globe, with roles that have allowed me to visit and work in some of the world’s most incredible cities as I serve my clients", Tim shared. "While the advancement of technology has always been at the core of my work, in the end, it is about understanding people — their needs and finding creative solutions that address them. Glendon was the starting line for this adventure."

In his search for postsecondary education, one skill Tim was eager to develop was his French, having gained an appreciation for the language during an overseas exchange to Clermont-Ferrand. At Glendon, he found that and more, immersing himself in a program where he could discover how global events and issues impact at the local level, and vice versa, and how to navigate diverse perspectives.

"International Studies gave me the unique opportunity to learn — and learn how to learn —alongside a small but diverse, multi-lingual and internationally focussed community. Beyond the classroom, it also allowed me to get involved while learning to think critically and work with or lead dynamic teams of people. This experience prepared me with skills I would use throughout my career."

Upon graduation and following an MA in International Political Economy at the UK’s University of Warwick, Tim’s uniquely global education and perspective became a distinguishing factor for him as he successfully joined IBM in response to an immediate need for bilingual resources. And over the past several decades, he has applied it to gain a wide breadth of experience — from sales roles focusing on IT systems management, data, security, analytics and business automation, he grew his sales, management and leadership expertise while clocking in from home in Ottawa to across North America, the Caribbean and Europe.

And there has been no shortage of rewarding projects to keep Tim busy as IBM remains at the forefront of technology innovation, including in the AI and machine learning spaces. In his latest role, he works with the federal government on how best to integrate these emerging technologies to serve Canadian citizens.

"With the advent of Generative AI, there are countless opportunities to make the world better, and the government context is no exception. This technology also raises many concerns, particularly in the public sector, including ethics, cyber security threats, privacy violations and accuracy of information. It’s my job to help address these concerns for my clients while helping them capitalize on AI’s many benefits."

As technology continues to evolve, Tim remains open to whatever might be next with IBM. And while frequent role or career changes have become the standard for today’s professionals, his journey is no less desirable. His secret to sustaining this longstanding career? It's simple, he says: making the most of the opportunities right in front of you. 

"The search for new professional challenges doesn't always have to mean looking elsewhere or going far — they can meet you right where you are. I found a company that allowed me to grow from within, constantly learning and doing new things while exploring the world. Ultimately though, whether it’s three decades at one company, multiple roles at different companies, or something else entirely, it’s for you to define what success looks like."

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

What is your hometown?

Peterborough, Ontario.

What is your favourite city in the world and why?

If I could live everywhere at once, I would! I’ve been to some of the world’s most amazing cities over the years and would love to spend more time in all of them. If I had to pick one though, it would be Ottawa, where I got married, bought a home and raised a family.

What is your favourite hobby?

I still love playing hockey, but what I enjoy even more now is helping as a coach with my youngest daughter’s hockey team. Working with the kids on the ice and watching them play and improve over the years has been a ton of fun.

What is your greatest achievement thus far?

To put it simply, raising my two amazing kids alongside my wife.

What do you want to be remembered for?

Personally, it’s that I’m a loyal friend and, professionally, that I’m a creative problem solver. In both cases, I want people to remember that I always do what I say I will do. 

The post Meet Tim Wilshaw (BA Hons. International Studies ’95) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Career Path(s): Public Affairs; Journalism; Communications & Public Relations

Title: Public Affairs and Communications Attachée, Bureau du Québec à Toronto

For Claudine Brulé, being adaptable to new experiences and changing circumstances has been key to her success. Whether by pursuing more education, embarking on a career change, or learning to navigate work and life as a Francophone in a predominantly Anglophone city, Claudine has pushed herself outside her comfort zone at every stage of her journey so far. But through every challenge, there was one common thread linking each experience and helping her along as she evolved personally and professionally.

"I love telling stories, especially those of often-underrepresented people making a difference in their communities but who rarely get the spotlight they deserve", Claudine shared. "No matter where my career takes me, I always want to continue discovering these stories and ensuring these important voices are heard. And it’s a passion that became even stronger during my time at Glendon."

Following a journalism degree in 2001 and several years working with CBC/Radio-Canada, Claudine decided to continue her academic journey, coming to Glendon Campus to expand her horizons and further hone her expertise. Beyond the small class sizes, her greatest draw was the promise of a truly bilingual education, where her native French wouldn’t be a second thought, and her accent would make her feel part of the community instead of an outsider. 

And though she had already gained some postsecondary experience, Claudine found that Glendon offered something different — something special.

"My Canadian and International Studies programs gave me a snapshot of Canada like never before. I had the opportunity to deepen my knowledge about our country, its people, history and diversity, as well as its important role in the world. I got up close and personal with the many issues faced by Canadians and how my skills could help amplify them — an understanding that would follow me throughout my career to come."

Empowered with a newfound appreciation for her country, Claudine continued her work with CBC/Radio-Canada following her 2006 graduation, allowing her passion for storytelling to truly shine. She crafted compelling narratives on inspiring individuals, local causes and countless stories of regional or even national significance, including the Toronto G20 Summit and provincial and federal election campaigns. Claudine then stepped into the political sphere as a Provincial Affairs Reporter, covering all the goings-on at Queen’s Park. 

After 15 successful years at the news desk, Claudine bravely shifted gears with a role as Public Affairs and Communications AttachĂ©e with the Bureau du QuĂ©bec Ă  Toronto. Instead of chasing leads, she helps stimulate economic development and fosters relationships between Quebec and the rest of Canada. And though these paths seemed different, Claudine navigated this shift by leaning into what she does best — telling stories.

"There’s so much innovation and talent coming out of Quebec, and I can now apply my growing skillset and passion for storytelling to bring attention to the immense contributions of Francophone Canadians. Beyond the opportunity to help showcase my home province, this role also helped me further deepen my understanding of Toronto’s vibrant Francophone community."

To this day, Claudine is committed to taking chances on new opportunities. A self-proclaimed lifelong learner, she continues to update the skillset she fostered in part at Glendon through continuing education in areas such as digital marketing and public relations — and that is the basis for the advice she gives future students pursuing a similar career.

"Regardless of our path, we can only keep growing by trying new things and exploring new possibilities. You will only regret the things you don’t do, so just go for it."

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Quelle est votre ville natale?

Laval, Québec

What is your favourite city in the world and why?

My in-laws are Croatian, so I’ve made some incredible memories in places like Krk, an island off the northern coast. Not only is the location itself beautiful, but the food, people and even pace of life are so enviable.

What is your favourite hobby?

I love reading biographies and learning about people’s stories. There’s so much insight to be gained from diving into someone else's experiences and finding ways to apply their outlook to your own life. 

What was your favourite place on campus during your time as a Glendon student?

It depended on the season — in winter, I loved studying in the library, looking out at the garden, while warmer days were spent walking the paths or sitting and reading in the peaceful rose garden. 

What would you say is your greatest achievement?

Beyond my professional achievements, I’m just proud to have found a good sense of balance in my life, with great family and friends to go along with it.

The post Claudine BrulĂ© (BA Canadian Studies, ILST ’06) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Pathway(s): International Affairs, Public Policy and Human Rights.

Title: Foreign Service Officer - Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

We all have a different relationship with the word "change." But instead of seeing it as something to avoid or fear, Marie-Claire Lemay decided to embrace it — leading her first to Glendon and then into her role today as a champion of diversity, creating opportunities for immigrants and refugees from around the world. 

"Growing up in a small, francophone community, I always knew I wanted to work with diverse populations at the federal level or with an international organization, and Glendon laid the path to making that dream a reality." Marie-Claire shares. "In my work now, I am constantly amazed at the brave people who leave everything behind to start a new life in Canada. Their courage continues to inspire me to welcome change like I did from the very beginning of my journey."

Though Marie-Claire could have pursued her postsecondary education at home in QuĂ©bec, being able to complete her studies in both of Canada’s official languages was an important priority for her. Following an early experience studying English in Michigan thanks to a scholarship obtained for her community service, this desire to live and grow in a bilingual environment led her to enroll in International Studies at Glendon Campus. 

"Not only did Glendon help me become fully bilingual and position me favourably in my intended career path, but it also gave me access to a uniquely diverse community of students and professors with a vast array of perspectives, countries of origin and spoken languages. Even moving to Toronto, Canada’s most multicultural city, provided the perfect setting for me to expand my cultural horizons."

Marie-Claire’s time as a Glendon student also came with new opportunities that she never could have anticipated, opening doors to put her education into action while further developing her skills in diplomacy and sociolinguistics. Among these experiences was a life-changing, one-year exchange at the University of Guyana.

"The exchange through Glendon elevated my student experience to a global level. Living in Guyana was humbling — I gained exposure to an unfamiliar country and culture, witnessed different ethnic dynamics, political instability and border disputes, and experienced first-hand precarious living conditions such as the lack of reliable electricity and clean drinking water. It taught me to be adaptable and resilient, and without this experience, my achievements since then may not have been possible."

These experiences eventually led Marie-Claire to the competitive world of Canada’s Foreign Service. Much of her career has been spent overseas in a constant state of change, working with diverse communities, from refugees to investors, in countries like Turkey, Colombia, Haiti, Mexico and the United States, and even recently coordinating the resettlement of over 1,500 Afghan refugees on the ground in Pakistan. Today, she manages Canada’s visa and immigration operations in Brazil, facilitating avenues for visitors, students, workers and immigrants to contribute to Canadian society. 

"Representing our country on the international stage is a great honour. It comes with challenges, whether being far from family in Canada, moving locations frequently or deploying to crises — but it’s a career I have never regretted. It’s all about embracing these changes head-on."

And while she may not know where in the world her career will take her next, Marie-Claire believes we all should be ready to welcome change with open arms. 

"Whether it results in success or failure, learn from every experience so you can be open to new opportunities as they arise. My career was in good part sparked by just a single reference letter from my early volunteer work, so even when an experience seems small or insignificant, the lessons that come along with it can lead you to unexpected yet unbelievably exciting possibilities."

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

What is your hometown?

I was born in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts and grew up in Québec City.

What is your favourite city in the world and why?

While I could pick many different cities for countless reasons, I would choose Tokyo for its vibrant lifestyle and originality, as well as its unique mix of futuristic technology and traditional culture. And don’t forget the food scene!

What is your favourite hobby?

I love trying new things, whether discovering new restaurants or dishes, a new market or museum, and, of course, exploring the world and learning as many languages as possible!

If you had one, what would be your motto?

“A ship in a harbour is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for.” I wouldn’t be where I am today if I had not dared to take risks and try new things while persevering throughout it all.

What was your favourite thing about being a Glendon student?

The camaraderie and "esprit de corps", which was in part shaped by a shared commitment to bilingualism and openness to the world. 

The post Meet Marie-Claire Lemay (BA International Studies ’02) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Pathway(s): International Affairs, Public Policy and Human Rights.

Title: Senior Advisor, Partnerships & Special Initiatives, United Nations Foundation.

Being named one of the country’s most powerful women is a distinction reserved for only a small group of inspirational leaders. But for Rochelle R. Atizado, a Glendon grad and first-generation Filipino Canadian, it was an honour that went far beyond just a line on her rĂ©sumé—it was a reminder of the importance of representation.

"Early in my career, I rarely saw people who looked like me in leadership positions and that remains true today,” said Rochelle, who currently works for the United Nations Foundation in New York. “When I received the Top 100 recognition in 2023, I was touched by the young women who reached out and felt a stronger responsibility to carve out a pathway where others could see themselves in."

After achieving her Bachelor of Commerce degree in Global Management from the Toronto Metropolitan University, Rochelle was eager to bring her career to a global level by continuing her education with a Masters in Public & International Affairs at Glendon Campus.

"Many classmates came to our program with prior political science experience, but Glendon was my first introduction to the world of international affairs. Because of the close-knit community, small class sizes and direct access to my professors, it was an ideal setting for me to develop the skills I would eventually need to be successful in my career."

Glendon’s global approach also offered Rochelle the unique opportunity to bring her education beyond the classroom with an international internship at the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York as an Editorial Intern. She then went overseas to the UN’s Geneva, Switzerland headquarters to work as a Humanitarian Affairs Intern.

"Thanks to my professors, I was exposed to internship possibilities outside of Canada. Though working in editorial wasn’t part of my original plan, it was my foot in the door to an organization I was interested in working for and, ultimately, helped lead me to my career today."

Now, back in New York as Senior Advisor, Partnerships & Special Initiatives, Rochelle spends her days fostering relationships with partners to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. And despite the ‘imposter syndrome’ she experienced in her early career, her distinction as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women demonstrates that she’s right where she needs to be.

Understanding how her journey can serve as a roadmap for other aspiring female leaders like herself, Rochelle wants to encourage them to take a leap of faith and go for those big dreams. "My number-one advice is to go for it, always."

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Where is your favourite city in the world and why?

New York City. It has an energy you can’t find anywhere else in the world and, as challenging as it can be, it is also where I have grown the most.

What is your favourite hobby?

I love outdoor activities, especially outrigger canoe, stand-up paddling, and roller skating.

What was your favourite thing(s) about being a Glendon student?

I loved the campus — everything from the gardens to the library! It is a beautiful and peaceful place, and the perfect backdrop for studying.

What do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered for my Bayanihan spirit, a Filipino term loosely translated into community and care for others. I’ve worked hard for my achievements, but I didn’t get to this point alone. I want to pay it forward and help others who may go down similar roads after me.

The post Rochelle R. Atizado (MAPI 2015) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

Pathway(s): Law

Title: Justice of the Peace, Minister of the Attorney General

When it comes to helping people in need, Karine Morin has never shied away from taking on a challenge, having a difficult conversation or venturing where others have not. And from her time as a student at Glendon Campus to becoming the first French-speaking Black woman appointed as Justice of the Peace in Ontario, she has proudly embodied that spirit throughout her academic and professional career. 

“From a very young age, I felt a natural calling to stand up for those whose voices need and deserve to be heard, including my own,” said Karine. “Whether from following the example of great leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. or my father’s sage advice about there never being a problem without a solution, I always knew I had a part to play in social justice. Glendon allowed me the opportunity to transform that passion into a career.”

Growing up in small-town, rural QuĂ©bec, Karine immediately fell in love with the natural beauty of the campus and was captivated by its proximity to the bustling, English-speaking metropolis of Toronto. At the same time, Glendon’s vibrant international profile was something she coveted as a first-generation Haitian-Canadian.

“Not only did Glendon offer a translation program, but its multicultural community allowed me to learn about diverse people from different countries and cultures and with vastly different experiences from mine while also discovering my own identity. Beyond this, the ability to pursue a bilingual education in both English and French was a unique experience not offered by other institutions and has set me apart throughout my career.”

While at Glendon, Karine demonstrated the impact of her early social justice work by taking the lead on several initiatives that advocated for Francophone minorities and immigrants, particularly women. This included organizing International Women’s Week, the International Culture Annual Gala Event, and Glendon’s first conference on violence against women for francophone immigrant families.

“Whether on campus or in the world around us, there are immense, unique challenges that face these women. My goal was to create a safe space where we could have open and honest conversations about real issues, where they could feel heard and that their concerns were taken seriously, and where solutions were welcomed and encouraged. And from the top down, Glendon made this type of environment possible.”

Karine continued her efforts after graduation, putting her education, expertise and passion for social justice into action in bilingual roles with agencies such as Kids Help Phone and the Oasis Centre des Femmes, as well as theVictim Witness Assistance Programme with the Ministry of Attorney General, where she participated in the first-ever court tribunal for abused children. Today, as she hears cases daily through her position as Justice of the Peace, she’s in a prime position to affect change for a generation that needs it more than ever.

“I’ve always had a soft spot for working on mental health cases, particularly for our young people who are so vulnerable to its most dangerous impacts, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Too many these days are losing their identities and even their lives, and it is rewarding to know that my work can make a difference.”

As she continues bringing about positive change for those in need, Karine also reflects on what she has learned as a trailblazer among Black and Francophone people in a primarily Anglophone society. “I’ve discovered the importance of embracing life and all its amazing opportunities and possibilities. By always going towards the challenges instead of hiding from them, particularly in those formative years, there is no limit to what you can achieve.”

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Where is your favourite city in the world and why?

Jacmel on the southern coast of Haiti—that’s my home. My mother’s family is from there and, from the mountains to the seas, there is nothing quite like it.

What is your favourite hobby?

I love music in all its forms—and particularly the many genres my father introduced me to! Whether Kompa, R&B, gospel, classical or African music, or even country, rap or rock-and-roll, hearing those melodies as you’re going about your day or sitting around a fire is good for the soul. 

If you had one, what would be your motto?

“Don’t go through it by yourself.” We all need a helping hand occasionally and we can’t be afraid to ask for it.

What is your greatest achievement thus far?

Raising my three amazing sons.

What do you want to be remembered for?

I just want to be known as someone who lived life well and enjoyed all the good it offered. When someone thinks of me, I want that to bring them joy because of how I chose to walk through the world. 

The post Karine Morin (BA ’91 Translation & Women’s Studies) appeared first on Glendon Campus.

On May 17^th, Living and Learning in Retirement (LLIR) celebrated their 50^th anniversary with current and former leaders and board members, long-time course directors, dignitaries, and Glendon partners and staff. 

A commitment to lifelong learning is a cornerstone of Glendon College’s approach to education, and one we have long shared with the volunteer-led group Living and Learning in Retirement (LLIR). Established in 1973 through a federal New Horizons grant, LLIR is the first of its kind in Canada, providing retired persons with opportunities to access general-interest educational programming at Glendon while contributing to a legacy steeped in philanthropic impact.

And now, with over 1,200 members and counting, they have taken their commitment and this impact further than ever to support future Glendon students and generations of lifelong learners just like them.

On May 17, LLIR celebrated their landmark 50^th anniversary alongside their current and former leaders and board members, long-time course directors, dignitaries and key partners, staff and community members at an event hosted on the Glendon campus. The event's climax came when LLIR President Alan Flint took to the stage to present Glendon Principal Marco Fiola with a $50,000 donation to support the LLIR Student Opportunity Fund – the group’s largest gift ever to the College.

Created in 2021 through an initial donation of $25,000, the LLIR Student Opportunity Fund provides much-needed financial aid for Glendon students from underrepresented groups. The fund has since been endowed to ensure the long-term impact of this gift and enshrine the sustainable opportunities it will create for future students.

This most recent donation is only the tip of the iceberg and builds upon the group’s rich history of giving back to Glendon students, having raised well over $500,000 in support over the past 50 years. Through more than 34 scholarships to date, LLIR has propelled more than 240 students toward academic and career success by alleviating their financial burden and clearing the way for them to pursue their passions and solve complex challenges at a global scale.

“On behalf of generations of Glendon faculty, staff, students and alumni, thank you to LLIR for your ongoing support of our students and your generosity that has empowered them to make positive change in the world,” shared Principal Fiola. “We are so grateful that you decided to make Glendon your home all those years ago, and we hope that we will continue to share our beautiful campus with you for many more decades.”

The celebration was punctuated by countless messages of support from notable individuals who recognize the significant difference LLIR has made to the future fabric of our society and for a generation of Canadians who have made immeasurable contributions themselves. This included a keynote address from journalist, author and broadcaster Steve Paikin, an acknowledgement in the Ontario legislature by Liberal MPPs Robert Oliphant and Stephanie Bowman, and even a congratulatory message from Prime Minster Justin Trudeau.

“As a former teacher, I firmly believe there is no age at which one stops learning,” stated Prime Minister Trudeau in his message. “[Groups like LLIR] help ensure that seniors stay up to date in a rapidly changing world, that they never feel alone, that they continue to be part of a community, and that they keep their minds sharp and hearts full. To the entire team behind LLIR, congratulations on this incredible milestone.”

As LLIR continues to nurture its engaged presence on campus and its members join us from our lecture halls, Glendon looks forward to another 50 incredible years of working together to bring education and lifelong learning to more and more people.

Read the full LLIR 50th Anniversary Report here.

The post Paying it forward for future students - Living and Learning in Retirement (LLIR) celebrates their 50th anniversary at Glendon appeared first on Glendon Campus.

For 8 weeks each semester, participating students have the opportunity to connect with a wide range of alumni mentors for coffee-chat style mentoring via Glendon’s GLConnect platform. This open-networking approach allows students to connect with mentors who work in a variety of sectors, and encourages students to consider a multitude of personal and professional pathways, regardless of their program of study.

The program is managed through a partnership between Glendon’s Office of Alumni Relations & Advancement and the Office of Student Affairs, with support from the Career and Skills Development Centre.

The launch of the fall semester’s program was celebrated with a Mentorship Mixer hosted by Principal Marco Fiola, where program participants were excited to meet in person and start building connections amongst a community of potential mentors and mentees. 

Remarked one student participant, "Being a student at Glendon is so special because of the connections you make along the way, this mentorship program fulfils exactly that. These mentors give life-changing advice, and valuable wisdom. I am so thankful I was given the opportunity to meet with them."

Each mentoring cohort welcomes more than 35 students and 14 mentors, with expanded capacity planned for future academic years. 

The post Glendon launches Glendon Connect: Alumni Mentorship Program appeared first on Glendon Campus.

To those close to her, she's Marie Foolchand, a "quiet girl" with a passion for poetry and travelling. But to her audience of more than one million followers, she's better known by her TikTok handle .

When Marie first joined the platform, she never expected she might one day be rubbing shoulders with celebrities, representing some of the world's top brands, and racking up millions of views and likes. But what started as a creative pastime quickly became an outlet for her to entertain, inspire and educate people from across the globe.

"My goal is to make people happy, and I never realized that could be possible through creating content online," shared Marie. "With social media, there are no boundaries. Like at Glendon, there are so many different people to interact with and perspectives to discover, and these are the tools I need to make better content."

For the past two years, Marie's TikTok channel has delighted people of all ages with funny videos about daily life to informative skits about her experience as a Glendon student. Having emigrated to Canada from France at only age nine, she's even been known to showcase her French language skills, an essential part of her life that she was able to maintain by attending Glendon.

"Language is incredibly important to me, and being bilingual can open so many doors for your future. French Studies allowed me to dive even deeper into the language and build bridges both personally and professionally. I'm proud to represent French-speaking people on such a big platform, and I hope what I do encourages others to learn another language one day."

Though Marie's final years at Glendon were shadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges of studying at home, the added time between classes became an opportunity for her to generate captivating content. Following her graduation in 2021, she began investing in her craft with professional camera equipment, technology and software, creating higher quality videos and reaching even more people.

The hard work paid off quickly – before she knew it, Marie's following had grown past the coveted one million mark. With her popularity rising, Marie was also presented with new opportunities to expand her profile. These included partnerships with incredible global brands like Warner Bros. and the chance to attend high-profile events like the 2022 JUNO Awards this past May.

"I never dreamed I'd be making an income from this, let alone working with my favourite creators or sitting alongside my idols like Shawn Mendes or Avril Lavigne. Being treated as equals on Canada's biggest stage showed me that my hard work is worth it and that I’m being taken seriously."

Though she's now taking over the world one TikTok at a time, Marie credits Glendon with building her self-esteem and preparing her to step in front of an even bigger audience – and she wants others to know they can do the same.

"Don't settle for what you think is meant for you. I used to believe what I was doing now would be out of reach for a 'quiet girl' like me. Glendon taught me to see so much beauty in uncertainty and celebrate what makes me unique. That's where some amazing things start to happen."

Rapid Fire Questions

What is your favourite city in the world and why?

London, UK. I have lots of family there, so I visit quite often. It's such a lively city no matter what time of day, and I love everything British.

What is your favourite hobby?

Besides filming content, I love crafting or cooking – anything that makes me feel productive. My favourite thing to cook is Bolognese (and I'd say it's rather delicious)!

What or who inspires you most?

Anything and everyone. I absorb so much from every person or experience, and it all has its purpose. I then use it to build better content!

If you had one, what would be your motto?

Work hard, play hard.

What was your favourite place on campus during your time as a Glendon student?

The outdoor spaces on campus were so beautiful. No matter the season, it was always a great place to study, catch up with friends, go for a walk or simply relax.

The post Meet Marie Foolchand (BA French Studies ’21) appeared first on Glendon Campus.