�첥��Ƶ 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 – all before the age of 30.

This year’s 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.

“Each year, the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program highlights the remarkable achievements and impact of York’s global young alumni community,” says Julie Lafford, assistant vice-president, alumni engagement. “This year’s cohort features a diverse group of innovators who are shaping the future through their leadership, creativity and volunteerism.”

Since 2021, the Top 30 program has celebrated the success and diversity of the University’s 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,  visit the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 webpage.

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At York, 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.

“Dr. Carswell’s 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,” says Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps. “His 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.”

Carswell earned his BASc in engineering physics (’56), MA (’57) and PhD in physics (’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 �첥��Ƶ 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’s weather station, a mission led by York 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’s 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’s 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’s 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’s 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’s 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 York, 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’s philanthropic legacy at �첥��Ƶ 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 York’s 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’s 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 �첥��Ƶ and beyond," says Philipps.

A celebration of life will be held at �첥��Ƶ, 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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The 2025 campaign, which ran from Nov. 5 to 30, was a success, raising $111,021.

Contributions from faculty and staff exemplifies York’s commitment to advancing positive change and building thriving communities where everyone benefits.

The campaign’s success was made possible by the hard work and dedication of many across the University. The 2025 York Cares United Way Campaign Committee, led by the Division of Advancement’s 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 York Region, some of which directly impact members of the York community.

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

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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.

“This 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,” she says. “By supporting Indigenous students in exploring health and life sciences, we hope to build a more representative, conscious and connected health care ecosystem in Canada.”

“We’re grateful for this generous gift,” says David Peters, dean of the Faculty of Health. “It strengthens our work to support Indigenous students as they develop the skills, knowledge and relationships that prepare them to lead.”

The Brigitte Nolet Scholarship arrives alongside several Faculty of Health initiatives aimed at broadening pathways for Indigenous learners. In September 2024 York signed a relationship agreement with the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council to advance Indigenous health priorities and to help shape planning for the University’s 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 2024–28 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 — for example, an Indigenous scholar appointment in the School of Nursing announced in October 2024 — 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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Faculty and staff receiving donations should forward any gifts received in their departments to Advancement Services (located in the West Office Building on York’s 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 �첥��Ƶ.

Happy holidays from the Division of Advancement.

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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. 

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

The 2024 President's Staff Recognition Awards recipients and nominees 

Deborah Hobson York 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’s energetic commitment to students and boundless enthusiasm for the York community. Nominees for this award embody the University's spirit and use their creativity and imagination in support of the student community at York. 

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,   

Decolonization, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (DEDI) Award

This award, established by Lenton in 2023, recognizes staff who address decolonization, equity, diversity and inclusion at York 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 York’s 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: 

• Harriett Brempong, career education and development specialist, Markham Campus
• Colleen Robinson, administrative coordinator, Anthropology, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS)
• The Umoja Black Legacy Builders Team
• Said Zazai, senior business intelligence analyst, Office of Institutional Planning and Analysis

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’s 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) 

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��

• 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 

The President’s Leadership Award

This award recognizes excellence in service to �첥��Ƶ. 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��
• 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 

Phyllis Clark Campus Service Award

Established in honour of former vice-president finance and administration Phyllis Clark, the award recognizes a York 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 �첥��Ƶ 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’s 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 York. 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’s Studies, LA&PS

President’s Voice of York Award

The “Voice of York” 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 York’s reputation. Nominees for the this award are employed as front-line staff who have regular interactions with the York 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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Administered by the Alumni Engagement Team within the Division of Advancement, the PAL program supports faculty in reconnecting with past students and inviting them into the classroom to share insights, offer mentorship and enhance the learning experience for current students. Whether through guest lectures, panel discussions or informal Q-and-A sessions, alumni engagement helps bridge academic theory with real-world experience.��

“The PAL program is unique because it enables professors to reconnect with their own former students in a way that enriches everyone involved,” says Heather Auden, director, alumni engagement. “Faculty gain the chance to bring real-world perspectives directly tied to their course material, alumni are able to give back and strengthen their relationship with York, and current students benefit from seeing how someone who once sat in their chair has successfully applied their learning and what career paths may lie ahead of them. It’s a meaningful way to show the lasting impact of a York education.”��

Among those who have drawn on their alumni through the program is Professor Thomas R. Klassen in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. In order to better equip current students preparing to travel to Seoul for Klassen’s annual summer abroad course, South Korea: The Politics of Youth and Old Age, he invited alumni of the course to share experiences and field questions. “Having past students come to meet the current students and share experiences is an essential component of making the course a success for students,” he says.����

Faculty members who wish to participate in the PAL program can access support from the Division of Advancement in the form of: 

• thank-you gifts for alumni volunteers; 
• meal reimbursements for professors and alumni; 
• complimentary alumni parking on campus; and 
• additional resources based on request. 

Professors interested in accessing the fund are encouraged to contact Issa Abdi Jamaa, alumni engagement officer, at issajama@yorku.ca to arrange a meeting and discuss engagement plans. 

For more information, visit the PAL Program webpage. 

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The new gift builds on the family’s earlier donation, which first launched the program in Fall 2022. The program provides financial support to York students pursuing experiential learning opportunities globally, such as international internships, academic exchanges, research placements and conferences.

Through this program, the family aims to open doors for the next generation of global citizens. Lau and Chan first met as international students at York, where they forged lifelong friendships and a shared passion for learning across cultures. Because this formative experience shaped their own paths, they are passionate about giving more students the chance to embark on the same journey.

“We know first‑hand how global learning opportunities can build resilience and creativity,” says Chan, CEO and executive director of Singapore‑based SP Chemicals Pte. Ltd. “When students go beyond their familiar surroundings, they learn to adapt and rise to bigger challenges. These qualities are essential to navigate our increasingly complex world, and there is no better way to gain them other than global immersion.”

Lau adds, “In the last three years, some exceptional students have gone on their own learning adventures through our program. It was delightful to watch their transformation, and I am very excited to see how many more bright minds will benefit from our program.”

Since 2022, the Paulina Lau Scholars Program has enabled 24 students to explore experiential learning opportunities in 20 institutions across 14 countries. From internships at NASA, to language training for diplomatic careers, to research on democratic systems, these scholars have gained a wealth of learning – none of which would have been possible without the couple’s generous support.

“Paulina and Hian’s generosity exemplifies how alumni partnerships can spark profound learning journeys,” says Susana Gajic-Bruyea, vice-president, advancement at York. “Their gift is a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy and the enduring connection our alumni share with York.”

Through this landmark gift, Lau and Chan reaffirm their belief that global learning is not a luxury, but a unique component of a York education and a cornerstone for positive change in an interconnected world.

Learn more about the and how to support global learning opportunities at �첥��Ƶ.

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The new Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, which officially opened on May 26, is located on the main floor of the Life Sciences Building at the Keele Campus and offers an improved space for academic and social enhancement.

Funded by a $1.6-million gift by Taihua Wang, founder and CEO of Cell Biotechnology Co. Ltd., students can access the 3,843-square-foot space that features a more functional hub for student advising and support, along with new and revamped study and social spaces. These new features include new seating, a lounge area and bookable study pods that students can reserve online.

“This incredible gift by Dr. Wang, a Chinese Canadian business leader and stem cell scientist, will benefit all Faculty of Science students,” said Rui Wang, dean of the Faculty of Science. “It will help strengthen our advising and counselling supports and add much-needed study and social space for students to flourish academically and personally. In doing so, it will help accelerate our mission of educating our students to become active members of our global scientific community.”

The welcoming space will allow students to study individually or in groups and takes advantage of the expansive light from wrap-around windows in the Life Sciences Building. At the opening ceremony, Amna Imran, a third-year student double majoring in biology and psychology, spoke about what impact the centre would have. "It’s not just a physical space, it’s a supportive environment designed to help students grow, ask questions, and connect," she said. "Having a centralized hub where we can study, seek guidance, and build relationships with our peers will make an enormous difference in how we experience our time at York."

Considered to be a pioneer of the clinical application of stem cells in China, Taihua Wang says York is a “great university” and that “this initiative aims to provide enhanced student services, nurturing them to become future global leaders.”

�첥��Ƶ President and Vice-chancellor Rhonda Lenton says the Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre allows York to support students pursing education in the sciences.

“�첥��Ƶ is proud to mark the opening of the Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, a space that reflects our core commitments to access, excellence and positive impact,” says Lenton. “This centre, made possible by Dr. Wang’s transformative gift, will strengthen York's ability to empower students and help them reach their full potential in science and beyond.”

The May 26 opening ceremony was attended by the donor and his family, science students, faculty members and staff. 

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�첥��Ƶ has announced its 2025 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, a distinguished group of leaders making a significant impact in the world.

All under the age of 30, these alumni demonstrate exceptional leadership and volunteerism, tacking complex social issues both locally and globally. Their innovative efforts are shaping a brighter future while inspiring others to take action. 

“Now in its fifth year, the �첥��Ƶ Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program has continued to highlight the positive change that York’s young alumni have created at home and abroad,” says Julie Lafford, assistant vice-president, alumni engagement. “This new group of 2025 recipients will join our growing Top 30 Alumni Under 30 community of leaders, innovators, artists and humanitarians.” 

Since 2021, the program has highlighted the success and diversity of the University’s alumni community, while inspiring the next generation of young alumni leaders. 

To view the full list of the 2025 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, and learn more about them,  visit the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 web page. 

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