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WINTER 2021

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO THROUGH COMMUNITY ACTION Contents WINTER 2021

Become a Tee Lyn Duke looks at an art installation, a photograph of Duke in regalia, at professor the entrance. or an industry leader. Or both.

Realize your future at ryerson.ca/graduate/future-students

Gould Street Alumni Diary

3 President’s message 29 Charting progress Alumni association 5 Celebrating Indigenous embarks on identity transformation Library unveils new installation by Nadya 30 Book club Kwandibens Three great books by Ryersonians to read 6 Special delivery this winter How volunteers are Features making sure grads receive 32 Life story their diplomas 14 New lawyers for new times Al Ramsay empowers Creating access to justice is what we need now himself and the queer 7 Panel on campus safety By Wendy Glauser community Finding a holistic approach to security 34 Alumni profiles 20 A call to action Cheryll Case, Christian 10 Anti-Black racism Students petitioned for action on systemic racism Hui and Ena Chadha initiatives underway in media. Here’s what Ryerson did make change New committee takes action to support students, By Connor Garel 38 Class notes faculty and staff Updates from alumni 26 Centring Indigenous voices 11 Q & A 44 Remember when? Yellowhead Institute’s research shapes policy Gavin Ball, Master of Digital Media alumnus, Tony Staffieri, Ryerson’s 1918 vs. 2020: A look at By Michelle Grady Tech University professor and founder PHOTOGRAPHS BY (COVER) JANICK LAURENT, (TOP) STEF & ETHAN new Board chair pandemics in of creative consulting studio Full Circle CS. Winter 2021 / Magazine 1 FOLLOW US @ryersonu @RyersonU @ryerson_u @ryerson–university Support Ryerson students. Visit ryerson.ca/giving

Contributors The legacy and letter from the editor By Mohamed Lachemi of 2020 President and Vice-

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR What does change look like for you? For many of us, the past year has sparked an intense IN AN ERA MARKED by rapid change, start of a long journey for my parents to a willingness among for trans- KELSEY ADAMS NABRA BADR TAYO BERO awareness of 2020 stands out. A year ago, we were transform the destiny of their children parent and honest dialogue, and a desire Journalism ’17 Fashion Communication ’18 Writer, Profile of Ena Chadha, inequality in our celebrating the start of a new decade. A through education, one of the most funda- to understand the need for change. Writer, Profile of Photographer, Alumni (p.37) Anti-Black Racism society and a sense few months later we were all affected by mental of human rights. The sacrifices they At Ryerson, that translates into real action: that if we do not take Christian Hui (p.36) Profiles (p.34 to 37) Campus Climate Review, (p.10) action against bias a pandemic, our daily lives anything made have inspired my life and career. building a law school focused on access to Kelsey Adams is an arts and Nabra Badr is a -based Tayo is an award-winning and racism we are but normal. Though we have seen human rights cam- legal education, as well as access to justice culture journalist born and photographer whose focus culture writer and radio complicit in it. In this While COVID-19 was the first obstacle, paigns over the years, I think this time is dif- for Canadians, taking an honest look at raised in Toronto. She is a staff is to create powerful images producer. Her work often issue, we feature the social upheaval that followed has the ferent. My optimism stems from the fact that Indigenous issues in history, and embracing some of the many writer at NOW Magazine and through a fashion, beauty appears in publications like Ryersonians who are potential to inspire fundamental changes in change is being driven by a new generation a culture of anti-racism. has written for the Globe and and portrait lens, working Chatelaine Magazine, Teen making change and our political, economic and social landscape of youth seeking real, universal change, not It is my sincere hope that fundamental Mail, The FADER, Complex with clients such as The Kit Vogue, the Guardian and leading us to make for generations. At Ryerson, this broader simply piecemeal responses to singular progress on human rights will be the most CA and . and Flare Magazine. on CBC Radio. Covering a better world. public awareness has led us to focus even grievances (valid as they may be). I also see important legacy of 2020. She is devoted to elevating issues spanning race, culture, —Colleen Mellor more on values that are deeply embedded in Journalism ’86 the voices of marginalized feminism and the African the culture of the university. cultural creators. diaspora, Tayo is committed to This edition of Ryerson University “My belief in the uplifting marginalized voices Magazine highlights some of the ways these connection between human rights and and telling unique stories. challenges are playing out at our university, education is the DID YOU from our Anti-Black Racism Campus ON THE KNOW... result of my own life VARTY, (BADR) EBTI NABAG, (BERO) OSATO EREBOR

É Climate Review, and how we shape campus experiences.” COVER safety protocols, to the launch of our new law You can download the school, and the legacy of ’s (Top left to right) Tiffany Mboyo Mongu, Sarah Frazer, Heather Batista Baez, online magazine at Christian Hui, Harsimran Kaur Sidhu, Eternity Martis, Ena Chadha, Dylan Gervais, ryerson.ca/alumni/ relationship to the Indigenous community Kian Rastegar, Khushi Dave, Omar Jawabri, Breanna Xavier-Carter, Kaylee Rich, news/Ryerson- ANDR (ADAMS) 11, and residential schools. The issue also pro- Cheryll Case, Evan Brander, Brittany Mark University-Magazine. files the efforts of students, faculty, staff and alumni who are pushing human rights forward in a variety of ways. Volume 24, Issue 1, Winter 2021 I welcome this renewed focus, as I believe that universities play an important role in Ryerson University Magazine is published twice a year for alumni and . Reproduction, republication or distribution of content and photographs is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the editor. Vice-President, University Advancement and Alumni Relations Ian Mishkel • Chief of Staff & Executive shaping not only the discussion but also Director, Communications Michael Forbes • Executive Editor Karen Benner • Editor Colleen Mellor • Associate Editor Antoinette Mercurio • Staff Writers: Surbhi Bir, leading by example when it comes to justice, Lindsey Craig, Michelle Grady and Jessica Leach • Art Direction & Design Studio Wyse equity and human rights. My belief in the connection between human rights and edu- CONTACT Ryerson University Magazine, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St., Toronto, On, Canada M5B 2K3 cation is the result of my own life experi- Phone: 416-979-5000 ext. 5088 • Email: [email protected] • Web: ryerson.ca/alumni/news/Ryerson-University-Magazine/ MEMBER Council of Ontario Universities (COU), , and Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) ences. I was born in Algeria just two days © 2021 Ryerson University ISSN: 1713-627X • Published January 2021 PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NUMBER 40065112 after the war of independence from France came to an end. PRIVACY POLICY Ryerson University respects your privacy. On graduation, Ryerson will hold your contact and certain other information so that we can contact alumni to Living under colonial rule, my parents and offer the benefits of our affinity programs, to provide information about social, career and educational programs and alumni activities. Ryerson discloses your personal contact information to outside organizations, such as mailing houses or telephone services, to enable them to contact alumni on behalf of Ryerson and its affinity partners grandparents had many opportunities taken but ensures it has entered into confidentiality agreements with those organizations so that alumni personal information is kept confidential. Ryerson does not rent, trade from them, the greatest being access to edu- or sell its mailing or telephone lists. The university periodically contacts alumni by phone or mail about affinity programs and/or fundraising initiatives. If you would like to PHOTOGRAPHS BY (MELLOR) CHRISTOPHER MANSON, DOCUMENTARY MEDIA ’ MEDIA DOCUMENTARY MANSON, CHRISTOPHER (MELLOR) BY PHOTOGRAPHS discontinue this contact or your free subscription, please email [email protected] or call 1-866-428-8881. Please also see www.ryerson.ca/privacy. CRUFT ADAM BY ILLUSTRATION cation. National independence marked the

2 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 3 UPDATES FROM OUR CAMPUS Learn. Build. Change. gould street Repeat. / ANTI-HATE RESOURCE / HOW AR ENHANCES VIRTUAL LABS / ANTI-BLACK RACISM / Q & A /

Artificial intelligence, automation and a global pandemic are changing the way we work. How we approach our jobs today will be different tomorrow. One way to keep pace in the future is through continuous learning. Artist Nadya Kwandibens (left) with Tee Lyn Duke, who is With over 400 online courses and dozens of in-demand certificates, you can build, featured in the photograph. change or improve your career — again and again.

Continue to adapt with the times. Start learning online this January. INDIGENOUS SPACE ON CAMPUS THE RYERSON UNIVERSITY Library unveiled a large-scale public artwork Celebrating Indigenous identity by rising star Nadya Kwandibens last fall, commemorating the university’s engagement with the annual Native Art installation by photographer American Indigenous Studies Association This way forward (NAISA) conference. While the Nadya Kwandibens unveiled at conference was cancelled due to the pandemic, the university decided to

continuing.ryerson.ca ETHAN & STEF BY PHOTOGRAPH Library entrance move forward with the mural.

Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 5 GOULD STREET

Find out what’s going on at ryerson.ca/news-events/events

The 10-by-15.7-foot portrait is on display as part of the university’s commitment to increase Indigenous visibility and celebration on campus, educate the whole community and inspire meaningful conversations. Through her work, Kwandibens explores what urbanization means for Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island and how living in urban areas can affect one’s cultural identity. The woman photographed is Tee Lyn Duke, a member of an Anishinaabe dance troupe who often takes Toronto’s A new panel will develop an intersectional approach to campus safety. public transit to rehearsals in her regalia. Kwandibens SPECIAL DELIVERY took her photo at Spadina direct support, including time to make a tangible impact in subway station. “Duke When COVID-19 hit, with DMZ’s entrepreneurs- helping underrepresented stands still amongst waves 20 staff and student in-residence and better access entrepreneurs.” of people,” says Kwandibens. volunteers stepped up to to grant opportunities and “The movement around her dedicated resources. SAFETY AND SECURITY conveys a sense of existing in ensure 7,700 diplomas Isaac Olowolafe Jr., founder an entirely different world that were safely sealed and of Dream Maker Ventures Inc., Expert panel is both past and future, as if and BIF founding partner, to address to say, ‘Despite all attempts at delivered to spring 2020 explains the need to keep erasing who we are, here we graduates. up the momentum. “The campus safety still stand.’” events of 2020 have been heartbreaking and tragic, but An independent External RECONCILIATION they’ve also led to the creation Panel on Campus Safety and of a perfect storm for activism Security has been established Task force and social change. Why stop to direct research, engage in appointed now? We will continuously fulsome consultations and encourage those who are provide its conclusions to to examine looking for ways to promote the president. A statement a more diverse and inclusive by President Mohamed Egerton startup ecosystem, and stand Lachemi noted that the panel Ryerson’s about their relationships with and representatives from GIVING International, the DMZ aims in solidarity against racial is undertaking the critical historical figures. At Ryerson, the community. The two to raise the profile of the injustice,” Olowolafe said. work of determining a holistic legacy President Mohamed Lachemi co-chairs are Joanne Dallaire, Raising program, broaden its scope “As an institution dedicated approach to enhancing safety Over the past decade, appointed a Presidential Task Elder (Ke Shay Hayo) support to reach Black youth, and to equity, diversity and and security at Ryerson Ryerson students, faculty Force to gather feedback on and senior advisor create more opportunities inclusion, providing support, and addressing the unique and staff, the university’s what the university can do to Indigenous relations and for Black for Black women in tech and improving access and challenges the university faces. Aboriginal Education reconcile the legacy of Egerton reconciliation at Ryerson entrepreneurship in Canada. removing barriers for our The safety and security Council, and the Truth and Ryerson, fully understand his University, chair of the entrepreneurs Launched in May 2019, Black community members of the Ryerson community Reconciliation Strategic relationship with residential Ryerson’s Aboriginal the BIF program creates DID YOU is a key part of creating a continues to be one of the in tech KNOW... Working Group have been schools, develop principles Education Council, and opportunities for Black more equitable campus university’s top priorities deeply involved in the process to guide potential next steps co-chair of the Truth and Last fall, the DMZ at Ryerson founders in the tech community,” said Mohamed in order to maintain an Ryerson has a new of reconciling Egerton which the university could Reconciliation directive; and University welcomed several industry and improves Strategic Vision to Lachemi, Ryerson’s president inclusive, people-friendly Ryerson’s connection to take, and submit a final report Catherine Ellis, chair and new partners supporting Black representation within guide the university and vice-chancellor. “The and safe environment for residential schools. with recommended actions associate professor in the the expansion of its Black Canada’s entrepreneurship through 2030: Black Innovation Fellowship all. The key challenge is to Over the past months, for the university. Department of History at Innovation Fellowship (BIF) ecosystem. The additional vision.ryerson.ca is a prime example of that establish an intersectional, communities around the The 14 members of the Ryerson University and program. With contributors partners will also enable kind of commitment in interdisciplinary campus world have been having task force are students, a faculty elected member on like , Accenture, founders within existing action—both educating safety service-delivery

important conversations faculty, alumni and staff, the Board of Governors. TELUS Ventures and Magna PHOTOGRAPHS BY (TOP) ALIA YOUSSEF, IMAGE ARTS DOCUMENTARY ‘17, MEDIA ‘20; (RIGHT) ALYSSA K. FAORO programs to receive more leaders and allowing them model that is firmly rooted

6 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 7 GOULD STREET

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in Ryerson’s commitment to VIRTUAL CLASS and student lab partners, values of equity, diversity and along with AR lab exercises inclusion and to confronting Faculty of that allow students to project and disrupting racism, creates into their home the materials including anti-Black racism. required for experiments. The panel includes the immersive “Students were trying to Honourable Harry LaForme reach behind their phones to (Chair), Annamaria Enenajor, learning grab the objects. It gave Hamlin Grange, Arleen experience them a greater sense of what Huggins and Shawn Richard. was going on,” said Faculty of with AR Science Dean David Cramb. ANTI-HATE RESOURCE As students prepared for “At least in Western education, remote learning last fall, we’re so visually based that New toolkit the Faculty of Science anything we can do to combats introduced augmented reality simulate the tactile and holograms to biology of the material will enhance The Ryerson Augmented Learning Experience (RALE) uses AR anti-Asian and chemistry online labs. the experience for students. to enhance virtual labs in the post-pandemic world. It partnered with alumnus Everyone would agree discrimination Paul Duffy (Applied Computer that you have to do science According to Statistics Science ’89), president of to understand it for real.” “The RALE platform allows an experiential component. Canada, more than NexTech AR Solutions, to Incorporating some form students to transcend time What’s more, the format 30 per cent of Canadians create an augmented reality of AR in student labs is here and geography,” says Duffy— and flow of the learning can who identify as Chinese and remote education platform to stay, as Cramb says the something that’s become a iteratively improve since it 27 per cent who identify as called Ryerson Augmented platform can be used to necessity in the post-pandemic uses machine learning based Korean have experienced Learning Experience (RALE). enhance textbook readings culture. RALE allows faculty on the data it gathers to racial discrimination since The RALE virtual labs and lab manuals, making members to transform deep learn which experiences the pandemic. To address include collaborative Zoom teaching and learning a more what would have been a 2D are best for students. these growing incidents of sessions with lab technicians visual experience. experience into a lab with —Michelle Grady violence and hate, a group of The Campus Core Korean, Tagalog and end of Kerr Hall to create prominent Asian Canadian Revitalization Vietnamese at ryerson.ca/ an accessible entrance, an leaders came together to project added new responding-to-hate/. additional ramp to Jorgenson accessibility features launch the “Responding to Nelson Mandela Ryerson University also Hall and one to Kerr Hall to Hate” toolkit, aiming to Way (above) and continues to address this West. Gould Street and part of improve incident reporting Gould Street. issue through an advisory Victoria Street roadways were The future and ultimately change the committee of academic raised to sidewalk level and Ryerson Senate call for narrative by highlighting researchers and faculty paving stones were installed of education the positive contributions of members. By examining the over a bed of concrete to make nominations the community. effects of anti-Asian racism, the pedestrian zone permanent You can help ensure that the quality of The group’s founding it provides ongoing ideas and and more accessible, and at Ryerson a Ryerson education continues to rise. members include Judge recommendations to stop permanent furniture has been Ryerson’s Senate is the body that regulates Maryka Omatsu, the first the discrimination. added along Gould Street and starts with you the university’s academic policies and East Asian woman to be Nelson Mandela Way. New oversees changes to its curriculum. Two appointed a judge in Canada, CAMPUS UPGRADE plants and upgraded lighting alumni Senator seats are up for election Ryerson University’s were also installed. Below for 2021-2022. You may nominate another Chancellor Janice Fukakusa, New look for the surface, cable duct banks alumnus or express interest in running yourself. Dean of Arts Pamela Sugiman DID YOU were installed to provide KNOW... Gould Street For more information or to register and General Counsel, pathways for future technology a nomination, contact Donna Bell, Secretary of the Board of and Nelson advancements. This work Governors and University We have a virtual supports connectivity Secretary of Senate at [email protected]. book club! Privacy Officer Julia Shin Doi. Mandela Way improvements as the campus Nominations must be received by 12 p.m. Look for our next on Wednesday, February 10, 2021. The resource delves into Book Talk at Over the past year, Ryerson grows. The Campus Core the differences between hate ryerson.ca/alumni University has completed Revitalization project was crimes, hate incidents and major upgrades along Nelson made possible thanks to the acts of discrimination, and Mandela Way, Victoria Street generous contribution of directs victims and witnesses and Gould Street as part of $7 million in funding towards on how to respond to each the Campus Public Realm the overall budget from the with a list of resources. Plan. Some of the new features City of Toronto and support ryerson.ca/senate The toolkit is available include a concrete ramp and from Toronto City Councillor

for download in Chinese, automated door at the north Kristyn Wong-Tam. SOLUTIONS NEXTECH RIGHT) AR (TOP LEFT) (TOP KRUEGER; DEANNA BY PHOTOGRAPHS

8 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 GOULD STREET

Connect with Ryerson alumni @ryerson_alumni

CAMPUS recommendations,” she said. RU What Ryerson accomplishment are “This includes, for example, Q&A you most proud of? Anti-Black meeting with the vice-provost, TS Its innovation and the pace at which racism academic, to discuss proposed Tony Staffieri, Ryerson’s it executes it. Ryerson, working with curriculum changes.” the private sector and government, initiatives Some of the changes quickly got the cyber security centre up outlined in the campus new board chair, on changing and running. It will be a high-demand, underway on review are already underway, relevant program where students will campus said Green. One of the the future of education work with real companies as they get recommendations of the their education. The law school is A new committee set up anti-Black racism report was another example of the speed of inno- to develop programs and to increase funding, create Fast Facts vation at Ryerson. And then there’s the strategies for tackling anti- and develop various events, Fiction or non- DMZ and entrepreneurial innovation. Black racism at Ryerson says meetings and information fiction? Fiction, but These aren’t university case studies its work is well underway sessions that specifically I’m currently reading that end up going nowhere. These are to address issues relating to support Black students. Younger Next Year. real solutions that end up being apps students, faculty and staff. “My team has been DC or Marvel? on our phones. Convened by President supporting a cross-campus Marvel. Nature hike or Mohamed Lachemi, the committee on Black excellence RU What is your vision for Ryerson and gallery wander? Presidential Implementation that creates initiatives that the board moving forward? Nature hike. Committee to Confront specifically centre Black TS I’d like to focus on three areas. First, Anti-Black Racism was students, including the first ensuring we stay relevant. That’s about announced last summer to Multi-pronged approach aims to address curriculum and programming virtual Black graduation innovation and disrupting conven- help actualize and execute the that centres Black students. ceremony, a Black students, tional education. Second, improving 14 recommendations laid out faculty and staff mixer, student life by creating the campus of in the university’s most recent and the first Black student tomorrow. Third, maintaining acces- Anti-Black Racism Campus and one of the co-chairs of curriculum, and how to better achievement award sibility and affordability. How do we Climate Review Report. the committee. “For staff integrate content that engages ceremony,” Green said. attract students from all over the world “For students, it ranges from and faculty, it focuses on Black faculty and staff, and She noted that the university in a way that is thoughtful about inte- issues of belonging, safety, recruitment, promotion, the that draws on the work of also continues to support grating different world views, so that curriculum, programming, ability to move up the ranks, Black scholars. and champion Black women the students choose to stay and con- to dedicated space for Black and their contributions “Our strategy is to engage through initiatives such as tribute to Canada after they graduate? students,” said Denise being valued.” individuals across campus the popular Viola Desmond O’Neil Green, Ryerson’s One of the key areas who have the decision-making Awards and Bursary Program, RU Did you have a professor or teacher Vice-President, Equity and for students specifically, responsibility to actually which is now in its 13th year. who changed your life or made a Community Inclusion, Green said, is the academic implement these various —Tayo Bero lasting impact? TS One of my university professors, Al Rosen, stands out. His message was: Change the rules. Figure out your own Rodney Yip (Computer Science ’82) believes alumni have three way of excelling at your career. For a Rodney Yip things to give: “Time, talent and treasure.” The retired disaster young person, that was inspiring. is planning recovery and business continuity product manager has shared all three with Ryerson, volunteering as a mentor, connecting RU What one piece of advice would you for students’ students and faculty to industry, creating an award for nursing Change the rules. Make your own way. This of nowhere pondering the higher order pass on to a new Ryerson grad? students, and more. Rodney is also leaving a gift in his will that never-settle attitude shaped Tony Staffieri’s of things. You can still think about TS Most people want to help. Take advan- futures promises to continue his generous support well into the future. career path to Rogers’ C-suite, where he that, but you’re also considering how tage of that; in a good way. Find men- serves as chief financial officer and head that relates to where we live and work. tors and leaders willing to take the time “Ryerson enabled me to hit the ground running,” says Rodney. of Rogers Bank. He is also a board direc- to help you. “It prepares students, not just for jobs, but to in€ uence society.” tor for the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple RU What’s the best/most surprising thing Rodney is leaving a legacy through a planned gift. Leaf Sports & Entertainment. Now, as you’ve learned about Ryerson during RU Have you picked up any new hobbies You can too. Contact us to  nd out how. chair of Ryerson’s Board of Governors, he’s your time on the board? during the pandemic? bringing that same approach to Ryerson, TS I see Ryerson as the disruptor in edu- TS . I became really good at mak- helping the university build the campus cation. The university is always look- ing shepherd’s pie—one of my favour- of tomorrow. ing for the next relevant program. It’s ites growing up. When the weather got Mira Claxton focused on the upside of what’s pos- better, I started playing tennis again. RU What interested you about Ryerson sible. Ryerson also blew me away in —Mary Teresa Bitti 416-979-5000 ext. 553793 | [email protected] when you joined the board in 2016? terms of the diversity of people here ryerson.ca/plannedgiving TS Ryerson is about real education for a and the diversity of thought and expe- This interview has been edited PHOTOGRAPH BY NESA BY MAKERS/UNSPLASH BY NESA BY PHOTOGRAPH PHOTOGRAPH BY CARLOS OSARIO real city. It’s not a campus in the middle riences they bring with them. and condensed.

planned-giving-final.indd 1 2020-03-20 1:48 PM Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 11 GOULD STREET

At left: No dine-in is allowed inside Pitman Hall but around lunch time, GRAPHIC DETAILS students show up with their green to-go containers in hand to pick up lunch and take it back to their rooms or outside; Below: Receptionist at the entrance of one of the On campus student residences; working out while physically distancing at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. during the

COVID-19 work out and numbers per session are based on provincial health requirements. After pandemic each session, the gym was disinfected with multiple electrostatic sprayers. There were We asked award-winning no group fitness programs onsite and the photographer Kiana Hayeri, change rooms were closed. “Our students that come in are so grateful Image Arts ’11, to document to have this,” said Nadavallil last September the campus one day in when the facility was open. “As a mental, early October. Here’s what emotional, physical and spiritual release for them, they have a place to come and do this. she saw And they know it’s a safe place where peo- ple care about their well-being and safety, maintaining our protocols and making sure our environment is tip top all the time.” The university has restricted the num- ber of people on campus, asking people to come to campus only for essential purposes. Still some necessary services opened in September under strict protocols. Students and researchers were able to book time in the Library and the Student Learning Centre for study and research space. Three residences opened in September with fewer students to allow for physical dis- WHEN THE UNIVERSITY moved to tancing. Only about 350 students—mostly essential services status last March in first year, and far fewer than last year’s response to the pandemic, every faculty and roughly 1,144 students—lived on campus department began to adjust to the new real- in the fall term. Safety measures include a ity. The Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC) no-guest policy, a mandatory face-mask pol- was no different. When it closed along with icy, closed common areas, increased clean- all the gyms in the city, the Ryerson Athletics ing protocols, and hand-sanitizer stations. and Recreation team organized virtual rec- The majority of Ryerson’s classes are reation programming (Move Everywhere: online, however, a few offered in-person Online) and began researching safety proto- opportunities during the fall term. For cols for when the facility could reopen. example, Image Arts held a first-year Image On Aug. 10, after the city moved to Stage 3, Arts studio class, with students coming to the MAC was ready to open. The team had the Image Arts building for a six-hour class put together a 130-page reopening plan and once a month. a 36-page risk assessment report. The plan A number of research labs on campus was so thorough that other universities and have opened since March, after detailed travelled to the facility and con- planning for how each space would adhere sulted with Athletics and Recreation on to public health directives. Elements of the how to prepare their facilities for potential plans include physical distancing provisions openings, said Chris Nadavallil, manager of and enhanced cleaning. Building systems, facilities, operations and risk management facilities and services continue to support for Athletics and Recreation. essential research activities. When the facility was open (it closed again Campus life carries on during the pan- Two first-year students take their online class while sitting in the sun in front of Pitman Hall during further lockdowns), gym equipment residence; first-year photography students practise strobe lighting in Image Arts photo studio demic, but in a minimal way, with most was spaced six to eight feet apart. Members at Ryerson; graduate students Jessica Phulchand, Malek el-Alooiti and Veronica Hislop, of the activity taking place in the virtual world.

could book a 90- or 70-minute session to Food and Soft Materials Research Group, work in the lab at the Centre for Urban Innovation. HAYERI KIANA BY PHOTOGRAPHS —­Colleen Mellor

12 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 13 14 Magazine / Winter 2021 /Winter Ryerson University Magazine New lawyers for new times Creating the law school society needs now

GUTTER CREDIT HERE

GUTTER CREDIT HERE BY WENDY GLAUSER, GLAUSER, BY WENDY Journalism ’05 Photographs by Janick Laurent Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine University / Ryerson 2021 Winter 15 15 →

OPENING PAGE LAW STUDENTS: KAUR SIDHU // → THIS PAGE: (from top left to right) HARSIMRAN NICK CHAI-TANG // It’s people and people with disabilities are the week before the very first courses begin at Ryerson’s woefully underrepresented. From topIVY LOK left: // Faculty of Law and the inaugural class of 170 students To attract students with diverse life are gathered for a Zoom session on leadership. The panel experiences, Ryerson decided to take the includes a dozen guest speakers, who are advocating for top two years of students’ GPAs, rather

changes in criminal law, disability accommodations in than all four years. The move recognizes // FRAZER SARAH the workplace, Black representation in legal leadership the reality that students who are less and more. A student asks Jordana Goldlist, a criminal privileged are more likely to face circum- defence lawyer who was once homeless and now fights stances, like health or family issues, that JESSICA BARBOSA // for youth in the justice system, how she would define a can affect their performance in school. leader. Leadership comes down to “character, as opposed In addition, the admissions process to skills,” she replies, and that for her, a leader is simply puts emphasis on students’ attitude NATALIE CABALLERO GISSELLE // someone who is “fed up with the status quo and won’t protections will you build into an AI (artificial toward equity, diversity and inclusion. The school also interviewed back down, even if the cause is unpopular.” She reminds intelligence) system to ensure a claim isn’t candidates, becoming the first law school in Canada to use a manda- the class that 100 years ago, as a woman, she wouldn’t wrongly denied?” explains Sari Graben, associ- tory online interview, which very few law schools in North America

MANUELA JIMENEZ BUENO // have been able to go to law school. “We’ve made changes ate dean for academic, research and graduate do. Among the questions asked was, “What role does privilege play in society because people have stood up and ignored the studies at the law school. in people’s lives?” says Saloojee. Along with their LSAT, GPA, letters noise and focused on doing what was right.” One first-year student, Upama Poudyal, is of recommendation and personal statement, the interview “enabled Ryerson’s law school wants to educate students to already in the process of rolling out an app that us to have a much more comprehensive and holistic understanding be more than just lawyers, and its inaugural class is connects people to lawyers. Rather than simply of the applicant.” a diverse group of future leaders who have a passion searching for lawyers online or asking for refer- To alleviate some of the financial burden associated with law for social innovation. The aim of the school is to train rals, users will be able to fill out a digital form school, Ryerson is actively building a robust scholarship program lawyers who will advocate for reforms and increase with questions such as what language they with a goal to provide some financial assistance to at least half of access to legal representation using technology and want their lawyer to speak, how much they can its law students in the coming years. Most of the available awards entrepreneurship. spend, and more. Based on the answers, the and scholarships are for people from historically underrepresented HEATHER BATISTA BAEZ // While some in the profession have worried about an app will recommend a lawyer. “If we’re going groups, including Indigenous and first-generation students, while overabundance of lawyers, Anver Saloojee, assistant to live in a fair society, then everyone should be others are available for those who demonstrate an interest in entre- vice-president, international at Ryerson, who took on the project and marginalized clients is vital to increasing able to access legal resources, especially when preneurship and social justice issues. of designing the law school back in 2015, found that there is a vital access.” But providing services has to make they’re going through traumatic events such Having lawyers who know what it’s like to be discriminated need for lawyers who represent marginalized people in society, and financial sense to be sustainable, which is why as divorce, criminal proceedings, or even real against will bring more comprehensive perspectives into the prac- can mobilize technology to serve clients who can’t afford tens of Ryerson is teaching law students about socially estate transaction issues,” Poudyal says. tise of law, Young says. “On a system level, the legal profession thousands of dollars in legal fees. Alarmingly, research shows that innovative business models. Young says that society also needs more more than half of Canadians self-represent in family court, and the “We believe that combining our focus on lawyers who understand technology to help KHUSHI DAVE // number of Canadian defendants without lawyers in criminal and legal technology and access to law enables us the government regulate fast-growing tech- civil law cases is on the rise. to train lawyers who think differently about nologies. “ has become this kind of providing legal services to clients, to make it behemoth that is in some ways more powerful more affordable,” explains Saloojee. Ryerson’s than government. It’s also been responsible for ability to instruct students on the opportunities enabling misinformation on the grandest scale, KIAN RASTEGAR // Why the next generation of lawyers need a solid grounding in technology and entrepreneurship posed by technology is bolstered by the Legal and is just one example of a technology com- Innovation Zone, the world’s first legal tech pany trying to avoid regulation,” she says. “We Donna Young, the founding dean of the law school, was drawn to incubator, which was developed by Ryerson need tech-savvy lawyers to figure out legisla- the school’s four pillars: equity, diversity and inclusion; access to and other partners in 2015 and is housed at tive ways of dealing with newer technologies.” justice; innovation and entrepreneurship; and sound academics the university.

OMAR JAWABRI // with innovative pedagogy. “It sounded like the answer to a lot of The law school incorporates a coding inten- people’s questions,” she recalls. While other law schools are work- sive, a mandatory social innovation course, Lawyers who represent the ing to incorporate innovative business models and social justice, and small mentoring groups with legal practi- population they serve “it’s hard to move an established institution,” says Young. “If this tioners. While the school won’t expect students is built into your founding principles and documents, then you ’t to code their own programs, it’s designed to The law profession’s diversity problem is well have to push against any cultural norms. That was really attractive.” offer skills that can help them promote access known. Only 19 per cent of Ontario lawyers FABRICE PILLA // Young has grappled with law’s access problem throughout her to justice. Students will learn to answer ques- consider themselves racialized, despite racial- career. When she worked at the Ontario Human Rights Commission, tions like, “What kind of data do you need to ized Ontarians comprising nearly 30 per cent there was a two-year wait for a case to proceed. “That’s not access,” collect and process in order to arrive at proper of the population; women represent less than she says. “Training lawyers who are willing to represent low-income conclusions in legal software? What kind of a third of judges; Indigenous and LGBTQ2+

BRANKICA JAKOVLEVSKI // LATOYA BROWN // KAYLEE RICH // LEO CHO // MARIA NIKITOUCHKIN // EVAN BRANDER // DYLAN GERVAIS // JAMES GRAVELLE // KYRIE FADERBAUER // Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 17 FEATURES

will benefit enormously from an influx of people of colour, women, Those who have been championing the

LGBTQ2+ folks, and people living with disabilities.” school want to ensure they’re not creating → THIS PAGE: From bottom left: YANA FOX // BRITTANY MARK // Shanté Brown, a first-year student and the recipient of the a competitive culture, but a team-based one. McCarthy Tétrault LLP entrance scholarship, recalls the adults in After all, this next crop of lawyers will need her life telling her she should be a lawyer since the age of nine. to work together to collaborate on innovation, When she took a law class in high school, she “fell in love with it” progressive reforms, and needed regulation for and was fascinated by how people have pushed lawmakers over big tech. “My biggest concern was building a Brown. And their speakers’ enthusi- the years to adapt and change laws with changes in societal values. socially conscious and academically rigorous asm for the school has been palpable. JONATHAN MARUN-BATISTA // As a Black woman, Brown is part of an underrepresented minority community – how to build that from scratch “I feel like everybody here wants us in law. While Black people represent one per cent of the student and how to do it remotely,” she says. to succeed.” population at many established law schools “Usually, a law school’s orientation in Canada, in Ryerson’s first-year class, 8.3 is three days … but Toni put together per cent identify as Black. Brown’s perspec- small groups, she would meet with 10 tive is also unique because one of her family students at a time, and she brought in members was incarcerated. “I have a dif- A LONG JOURNEY external speakers who talked about ferent understanding for the situations and different aspects of the law. Our ori- circumstances that might have led people TO A NEW VISION entation program started in July,” says down a certain path in life, an understand- Young. Over the summer, Young ing that a person’s actions might even be heard about student-led clubs form- more reflective of the society that we built, Ryerson’s law school the school breaks from an independent practice The answer came from Assistant Dean Toni ing, including a social club that organized some distanced meet- has been a long time others by using a co- to working for a non-profit rather than reflective of an individual’s coming. Over the past teaching model, where law organization, is one of De Mello who put together a virtual orientation ings in parks, a student-led Facebook group and an initiative to characteristics,” she says. decade, the university practitioners co-teach with the goals of the school. program that spanned six weeks and included profile each one of the inaugural class members. “Our students has worked on proposals legal professors. “A legal career can include panels on the Black Lives Matter movement, were getting to know each other outside of law school, and they addressing concerns that Ryerson Law’s practising in a law firm, opportunities in legal innovation and more. were bringing that enthusiasm into our orientation program,” there were enough law Integrated Practice legal aid clinic, government From top judges to disability rights advocates, says Young. “I thought to myself , ‘Okay, it’s not exactly the way I Launching amid a pandemic schools in Ontario and Curriculum (IPC) offers or corporation,” says demonstrating need for an attractive option for Shin Doi. “the people that have come in to speak with envisioned it. But yeah, we can do this. We absolutely can build Young admits she had many sleepless a different approach. students as it fulfils the In 2017 and 2018, us have been extremely impressive,” says this community.” nights when it became clear in the early Anver Saloojee, Law Society of Ontario Ryerson received summer that Ryerson would be launching assistant vice-president, (LSO) articling requirement approval from three key international at Ryerson for licensing. The IPC accreditation bodies its law school almost entirely remotely. and one of the founders of weaves professional skills for the law school: the “The fear was that we would not be able the law school, launched training directly into the Quality Assurance Council, to develop the kind of community that a project in 2015 that three-year academic the Federation of Law we really need when building a new law showed that many program through the Societies of Canada, school,” she said. With established schools, Canadians were going co-teaching structure and the LSO. Help shape unrepresented in legal of each course, the In an effort to make the there is the existing infrastructure of clubs, matters due to financial intensive programs Ryerson Law program Call for nominations: mentorship supports, “upper year students barriers. With its focus on offered at the beginning more accessible Ryerson’s future who can help first year students.” advancing social justice, of each semester and the to applicants from Ryerson Board of Governors entrepreneurship and professional placement underrepresented Serving on the Ryerson Board of Governors technology, the university during the third year. communities, the is well-positioned to train Upon graduation, university has set tuition is an exciting opportunity to participate in the next generation of Ryerson law students at just over $21,000, shaping the financial and strategic priorities of lawyers who can innovate are immediately eligible well below the cost of the university. In the summer of 2021, Ryerson on cost-effective models to write the licensing the other law schools in alumni will elect one of three alumni-member for representation. exams to gain entry into the city. In collaboration Lawyers have also practice. Graduates don’t with law firms, advocacy representatives on the 24-member Board. been calling for schools need to article since the groups and community Nominations will be reviewed by the Ryerson to produce graduates that experiential requirements and business leaders, University Alumni Association, who will produce were ready for practice for licensing will have Ryerson is also offering the final roster of candidates based on a as many law schools already been fulfilled. numerous scholarships typically don’t teach the Julia Shin Doi, Ryerson’s and awards to students. Board-approved skills matrix. Get involved practical matters such general counsel and Law firms supporting and make your voice heard. as filing a motion or secretary of the Board of scholarships include Torys drafting a contract. “When Governors, played a key LLP, McCarthy Tétrault LLP, For more information about the nomination we researched legal role in garnering support Blake Cassels & Graydon and election process, please visit ryerson.ca/ education in the United for the vision. In a strategic LLP, Gardiner Roberts LLP governors/elections. Nomination period States and other countries, meeting with around 50 and Hicks Morley Hamilton closes on Wednesday, February 10th, 2021 we found there have been legal leaders from across Stewart Storie LLP. at 12 p.m. (EST). growing calls for changes the GTA she remembers Scholarships have also in how legal education that “there was a lot of been created by the John is being delivered,” says enthusiasm in the room C. and Sally Horsfall Eaton Saloojee. Building on for our vision.” Foundation, Andrew and Ryerson’s signature model Preparing law students Valerie Pringle, and Nadir ryerson.ca/governors of melding academic for an array of career and Shabin Mohamed in and applied knowledge, options, from running honour of Dale H. Lastman.

18 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 MEDIA IN RACISM SYSTEMICON ACTION FOR PETITIONED STUDENTS 20 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 /Winter Magazine University Ryerson FEATURES RYERSON RYERSON HERE’S HERE’S WHAT DID YAZMIN BUTCHER CONNOR GAREL ILLUSTRATIONS BY Journalism ’19 Journalism Fashion ’14 BY +

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GUTTER CREDIT HERE Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine University / Ryerson 2021 Winter 21 21 DISILLUSIONED. HAD GROWN STUDENTS THE 22 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 /Winter Magazine University Ryerson and our communities are being reported on in Canada.” in on reported being are communities our and how Black people in narratives the change and identify how to learn we should year. “I thought her final in was time, who, at the Xavier-Carter, media,” says Breanna the works in onhow education racism real some of class, improved. be could program how the asking to students email an wrote gravity, their to sensitive and, passivity of institutional criticisms saw these program, of the chair Neil, Janice approach. change. actionable to material, than pledges to inertia more like sounding more conversations” to “have oaths these all lethargic, comfortably was response professional the and streets the in more closely.to listen unfolding Arevolution was promises to diversity, the recommitments the Instagram, black boxes on the unrest: face of social the in platitudes Floyd’sGeorge empty murder, their were deploying of wake the in institutions, other and Corporations “I felt the most realistic answer was to have some sort to have was sort some answer “I felt realistic most the adifferent tried Ryerson’s of Journalism School

headline: “WHO MADE HOUDINI VANISH?” HOUDINI MADE “WHO headline: Toronto a winking murder into the his fashioned Sun May, in killed shot and was Houdini 21-year-old rapper when the record?” And acriminal had he supposedly because to die he deserved “That asks. Mongu that?” see when they man young this about think people will “What even death. in him criminalizing image, for wait amore appropriate than rather victim of the mugshot acontextless to run chose CP24 summer, last shooting adrive-by in Sow, killed was Mohamed James. of LeBron images it using reported enly Television Breakfast mistak January, last crash plane a in died Bryant Kobe When examples. of recent acatalogue into before launching reported,” she explains, often so are ries “There’s sto how our in alack of such care overdue.”“long as course the describing many with school, in experiences own their about petition the beneath comments were leaving where, else and Ryerson from Former students, it. signing and were sharing program the of alumni and journalists big-name Several Twitter. on 3,000.eted past viral It was days later, it rock had 1,000 signatures; amassed it already had change.org, on 9, June published it 2020, was after hour an about petition, saw the Ifirst When roles. leadership in of Black journalists a dearth and media print national in narratives cal stereotypi of racist, awealth found which it cited a2010 study situation, Ryerson the of urgency To read. the petition illustrate at Ryerson,” the curriculum journalism implemented the be into course reporting petition. a published they Then, for redress. strategies some and program the with concerns shared their ter outlining alet wrote FaceTiming, then then texting, began felt four The they Neil’s about email. how ask Jabakhanji—to Sara and Akpan Rosemary Mongu, students—Tiffany other reached out to afew Xavier-Carter enough, in their reporting.” up turn may eventually that biases certain have and whiteness their in “They’re living “It’s psyche,”ism. their she says. not in just - rac of anti-Black understanding an and of compassion sense avital lacking sphere, of Canada’s part media better the up make who reporters, of white it a symptom named and racism, systemic and biases of racial media’s perpetuation active mainstream When a friend of hers, a young Black man named named Black man ayoung of hers, afriend When response. the by wasn’tMongu surprised a Black-Canadian “We that demand not be her voice might that Worried the witnessed long had Xavier-Carter ------

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JANICK LAURENT

GUTTER CREDIT HERE in the Media,” which began last fall. fall. last Media,” began which the in called BlackThe Community Race: on “Reporting anew course teaching developing and be would Martis Eternity author bestselling and journalist winning award- that announced it went school up, the days after stories.” these ones telling only shouldn’t the be Black people don’t mistakes. they so same these make them train to properly it’s So work. do important this ally actu and field to go the out into going whoare nalism, of jour future the be we’re who will students educating “Journalism can be a tool to affect change, and by and change, to affect atool be can “Journalism Afew swift. Ryerson’s was petition to the response new,” is “None “And of says. this each year, Mongu - -

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23 23 ------BREANNA XAVIER-CARTER 24 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 /Winter Magazine University Ryerson FEATURES TURN UP IN THEIR THEIR IN UP TURN MAY EVENTUALLY WHITENESS AND LIVING IN THEIR HAVE CERTAIN REPORTING.” BIASES THAT BIASES “THEY’RE “THEY’RE without the acknowledgement that subjects with darker darker with subjects acknowledgement that the without pass could photography about lectures whereor entire Canada, in didn’t existed racism they know admitted professors where white classrooms in Ispent others but moments to were me, Some precious atstudent Ryerson. It keeps it going. alive.” conversation that helps to keep course this abit now, down Ithink dying it’s like seem it might even though And it been. ever has [Black movement Matter] Lives than probably is bigger whole now, world’syou this right at look the landscape “It’sers. I’m one course the excited always to go to. If speak guest and materials reading the with impressed felt he’she has and consistently seen, himself found times first one of is the course on Race” “Reporting haven’t and around The felt he says. recognized,” moments when I’ve astudent, me as sees lookedally went unconsidered. felt experience his he often program, the few in Black one of the students as so were never Black there around, professors any Plus, never saw it it might. pierce deeply hoped he’d as as he related racism, to anti-Black covers material some that class amandatory does offer program journalism a“no-brainer.” the was Though course the says taking student, a fourth-year Osman, Libaan her syllabus. in reading required are Maynard Robyn and Collins Hill she’s knowledge public in gaps Patricia the observed; It wasn’t too long ago that I, myself, was a journalism It ajournalism myself, wasn’t was I, that ago long too actu “At I’ve program wondered times, this whether - - says, “is just the beginning.” the just “is says, Martis “This,” white. disarmingly still is faculty The elective. still are this like to grow.more room Courses there’s But volumes. speaks still she says, students, of its recommendations even Ryerson That heeded the exciting. are to action calls of these too,” All she says. institutions, other from but police from not just ability account demanding is everyone —where whistleblower a is now movement whereBlack everyone racism right either. mind, her never crossed problem the to attention bringing and acting that lamenting me, with miserated - she com to act, Ifailed this, spite of all in that, Martis to have. Iadmitted When you might whatever future feel, rooms how it obscures these how unwelcoming out of place, you how it feel makes drome, perpetually how of imposter’s it produces sense a profound syn alienation: of this many-headed consequences and vast the to summarize It’s of white. ablur mostly difficult is faculty The racism. anti-Black about lessons substantial I don’t any lighting. recall different require complexions “But we’re in this revolutionary moment of the anti- moment of the “But we’re revolutionary this in

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GUTTER CREDIT HERE

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Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine University / Ryerson 2021 Winter 8249-0320 25 25 S 26 Indigenous leaders have calling for been Indigenous work. policy But since the’70s, vincial bureaucrats or consultants did the through arestitution lens. which at looks economic development team is currently at work on fromhave land. The dispossessed been Back Land and resources, including paper, amajor andcommunity tools reports, special Collectively 90 produced briefs, they’ve research teamremarkably hasbeen prolific. Ryerson University’s Faculty the Arts, of determination andinfluence policy. Indigenous self- to support perspectives provides almost exclusively Indigenous first thethinktank itskindinCanada, of says Executive Director Hayden The King. andcentrediscussions Indigenous voices,” for Yellowhead’s existence isto reframe those non-Indigenous theentire folks. purpose So andlawIndigenous policy isdominated by tives inCanada. “By andlarge, thefield of Indigenous-ledof critical perspec policy shares critical perspectives For says long, federal so King, orpro overIn just two years operation of within The Yellowhead Institute’sThe Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 /Winter Magazine University Ryerson Indigenous-led research research Indigenous-led FEATURES INDIGENOUS communities to fill andsought avoid taken itsdirection from Indigenous theYellowhead2018, Institute has INCE ITS INAUGURATION IN JUNE IN INAUGURATION ITS INCE and policy analysis policy and CENTRING , abouthow Indigenous Peoples BY MICHELLE GRADY VOICES Cash Back Cash - - ,

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GUTTERPHOTOGRAPH CREDIT HERE BY STAN WILLIAMS has had a substantial impact on Ryerson University’s Faculty of Faculty University’s Ryerson Arts, the Yellowhead Institute Institute Yellowhead the Arts, Indigenous policy in Canada. in policy Indigenous In just over two years within within years two over just In rightfully belong in these discussions.” belonginthese rightfully workbe that helps to refocus voices that organizations and in policy, butI think it’ll recognizable to thetraditional voices in andlaw. aspolicy think of It may notbe sions, isgoing to help reframe what we from and governancealized policy - discus young who people have really margin been - women andqueer, trans andTwo-Spirit leagues’ work, which centres Indigenous Ithinkournewcol- and academics. So therealm Indigenous malebeen leaders of take Yellowhead inentirely newdirections. Spice represent Indigenous voices that will Megan Lindsay Scribe, Nixon andAnne Kingsaysscope. theirlatest associates operation, theteamof iswidening their impact onIndigenous inCanada.” policy I’m to proud say that we’ve had a substantial or four more concrete examples like this.So that legislation was shelved. Ican cite three back against that framework. Ultimately, thecampaign that of pushed part a major broad self-government plan,andwe were ment’s rights framework. of Thiswas asort research was onthefederal report govern- directly andregularly, butourinaugural can say that theyinfluence federal policy sure how many organizations like ours however. Officials “I’m are listening. not what topics we covering.” needto be where we should allocate ourresources or ance, feedback, advice andcriticism on into thecommunitytapped for theirguid- ysis, it’s for to us be critically important policy. When we do our research and anal- whothe people are directly affected bythat perspective,” says King. acliché,become butitaptlysummarizes my that goes, withoutus.’ ‘nothing us about It’s ing coined bydisability inthe’80s activists that have gone unheard. “There’s the say - and research issaturated inperspectives tives back at government: theiranalysis ties, but theyreflect community- perspec icy ideas andthecommunities theyaffect. filter between complexa sense-making - pol infographics andtoolkits to functionas has donethat: just create briefs, policy since stepping onto the scene, the institute ritorial governments were And proposing. tives to what the federal, provincial and ter- analysis andresearch that offered alterna an organization like Yellowhead to provide Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine University /Ryerson 2021 Winter “Indigenous has traditionally policy As theinstitute moves into itsthird year They’re into notspeaking avacuum, “You without making policy cannot be Not only do to they speak communi- 27 27 - ALUMNI NEWS AND EVENTSalumni diary / BOOK CLUB / HUMAN RIGHTS WORK / RYERSON MEMORIES / VOLUNTEER TIPS /

MESSAGE FROM THE RUAA Alumni evolution Over the last decade, the work and structure of the Ryerson University Alumni Association board has evolved based on the needs of the university— from individual director portfolios to committee- based work. At the 2020 annual general meeting, a motion was passed to establish a new and exciting alumni advisory group, transforming the scope of the working volunteer board. This new structure will allow alumni to share their perspectives on a wide array of topics and issues for the university. A transition team composed of myself and two volunteers from the 2019-20 Ryerson University Alumni Association board have been meeting monthly to explore and discuss key questions around the mandate and operations of this new body. We're looking at the issues the council addresses and how more alumni can get NOTEWORTHY involved in the council and at Ryerson. To keep you informed, we’ve created a blog on the Celebrating progress Alumni and Friends website where you can get regular updates on Members of the Ryerson University Alumni Association our progress.

(RUAA) board of directors raise a glass in celebration Find out more at after a successful annual general meeting. This was ryerson.ca/alumni/ruaa. Maurizio Rogato the first virtual AGM, with participation from across Urban and Regional Planning ’02 Canada, including Halifax, North Bay and Vancouver. Transition Team Chair

Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 29

Forefront-8.5x10.875-AlumniMag V5 FINAL.indd 1 2020-10-27 3:00 PM ALUMNI DIARY

Check out the new Alumni and Friends website at ryerson.ca/alumni

Ryerson writes Three Ryersonians, three great books to add to your reading list

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Staying grounded

Frank Walwyn (Business Administration ’89) has fond memories of his Top: Jeremy Ferguson; left, Ron time at Ryerson, which Johnson (third from left) on the 1964 drive his volunteer rowing team, and right, holding the efforts. A partner at "R" from the team; Sherri Matsuba WeirFoulds LLP and one (Rodd) (right) with friends Heather of Canada’s top lawyers, McDonald (Strem) and Paula Martin Walwyn says he relies (Coleman); below, JoAnne Sandul. on what he learned at Ryerson in every file. 1 Ensuring diversity and inclusion is one of Walwyn’s passions. He supports Ryerson’s Diversity Institute and was on the committee 3 recommending honorary 2 doctorate recipients. And he is active within Memories the legal profession, raising awareness of diversity issues and volunteer positions in community and moving them forward. of Ryerson history appreciation groups.”—Ron Johnson, “My hope is to give back Business Administration ’65 and to make some small While COVID-19 interrupted our plans to celebrate difference by doing so,” › “I remember how excited I was to move to he says. “I am convinced alumni anniversaries in 2020, we couldn’t let the occasion Toronto and start at Ryerson in September the majority of us want go unmarked. We mailed anniversary pins to graduates to do good and effect 1977. I was coming from the small town of change; we only need of ’55, ’60, ’65, ’70 and ’80 and asked you to share your Lindsay, Ont., so city life was a whole new leadership and direction reflections on university days gone by experience for me. I met two lifelong friends to nudge us into action.” at Ryerson—Paula Martin (Coleman) and Fitting volunteer work Heather McDonald (Strem). I also played into a busy professional for the Ryerson Ewes Basketball Team. environment is a › “Exiting from an authoritarian suburban in sight, and ultimately found my place This was a wonderful experience as my challenge, but Walwyn recommends it. high school and beginning journalism as a travel writer and photographer, roaming teammates were my family away from 1. CATHERINE HERNANDEZ 2. ETHAN LOU 3. MENA MASSOUD studies at Ryerson resonated like a prison (and cherishing) more than 100 countries.” home and we got to travel to Quebec and “The trick is to stay Theatre Performance ’99 Journalism ’15 Theatre Performance ’14 break. Ryerson proved more than a school —Jeremy Ferguson, Journalism ’65 from one end of Ontario to the other.” focused on what is important to you. Even in which to shape a future. There were —Sherri Matsuba (Rodd), Secretarial a half-hour a month Award-winning author Little did he know that a visit The Aladdin, Jack Ryan and 75-cent, three-course Chinese lunches at › “The old guy in the picture is me— & Administrative Studies ’80 volunteering in a Catherine Hernandez’ latest to his ailing grandfather in Reprisal star’s new book, the Kwongchow in Chinatown. Friday night wearing the 55-year pin and the 50-year food bank will make a novel, Crosshairs tells an China would set journalist Evolving Vegan, feels almost as dinners at Mary John’s on Gerrard. And pin received five years ago at a very special › “My best memory of my years at Ryerson difference. I guarantee you will feel better for unforgettable and timely Ethan Lou on a journey with much like a travel guide as it square hamburgers and pineapple pie at anniversary. I’m holding the “R” that I was the amazing fashion shows the fashion it. You will learn from dystopian story of a queer an itinerary dictated by a global does a cookbook. His mission? Bassel’s. My instructors were stimulating in received as a member of the 1964 Ryerson students produced on a regular basis.” people with different life Black performer and his pandemic. In Field Notes from Massoud wants readers to liberal arts and journalism subjects. After Rowing Team. So many fond memories —JoAnne Sandul, Fashion ’80 experiences, and they allies who work against a Pandemic, Lou chronicles know that they don’t have graduation, my first job was running Kodak of my three years near Gould Street: the will keep you motivated. an oppressive regime that the spread of COVID-19, to go “cold-turkey”—their Canada’s publicity program. Reversing the “no star” Steeles Tavern, Imperial Pub, See more messages and memories which Volunteering helps you stay grounded and real.” is rounding up those and why this pandemic will move to a vegan lifestyle can usual trend, I went from PR to freelance, at Coq D’Or, the occasional class, and many we are compiling into a video available on

—Sue Horner deemed “Other.” forever change the world. be a gradual transition. ROWLEY ANDREW KOVACEVIC; MARKO (BOTTOM) '10; STUDIES CONTEMPORARY AND ARTS LEFT) NAIDU, (TOP SID BY PHOTOGRAPHS MOFFIE; MIMI BY ILLUSTRATION first writing everything in sight for everyone unforgettable students. I now enjoy three facebook.com/rualumni/videos.

30 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 31 ALUMNI DIARY

LIFE STORY Students need Finding my voice Gaining acceptance for myself didn’t happen overnight. I had my own journey of more help this year How Al Ramsay self-discovery. After arriving in Canada, I still felt ashamed about who I was and con- Be it financial, academic, mental wellness, or otherwise, tinuted to live a dual life. Throughout uni- more students than ever need support. The Ryerson Fund empowered himself and versity, I lived in Brampton with my folks helps students access the different tools, equipment and and took the GO Train back and forth to resources they need to be successful. the queer community Ryerson, graduating with a bachelor of com- merce in 1999. When I got a job in diversity Your gift can make a difference in the life of a student. and inclusion at TD Bank, I eventually Together, we can make a challenging year a little easier. came out to my colleagues before coming Al Ramsay helped out to my family and friends. In a way, I launch TD's first Join your fellow alumni by giving to the Ryerson Fund today. same-sex couple became a new person then. ad in mainstream I was hired by the bank in 2005 to create media. its community relations program, building the brand in diverse communities. I helped launch TD's first same-sex couple ad in mainstream media. Despite a lot of back- lash, we stood firm in our principles, which helped us become a leader in this space. Eventually, I led the creation of TD’s LGBTQ2+ customer strategy that brought the company recognition as a leader in the financial industry across North America. As a result, I was promoted to the execu- tive ranks to further help the organization evolve other diverse customer segments. In my current role (associate vice- president, sales and strategy and head of LGBTQ2+ business development at TD Wealth), I’m grateful that I can lean in and use my authentic voice because of the support of my leaders. I take every chance I get at the leadership table to discuss diver- sity and inclusion. Not everyone has the opportunity or the environment to make a difference. My job is to make sure that we authentically embed diversity and inclusion here. As exemplified in my case, the Black experience and the LGBTQ2+ experience is unique. Recently, I’ve had many conversations about the Black Lives Matter movement and have been involved in educating my col- leagues. It has been especially important to support our Black employees during these traumatic times. We’ve made a lot of prog- WHEN I MOVED to Canada from Jamaica is very homophobic. People in ress, but there is still more work to be done. Jamaica, I was struck by how differ- my community were shunned if they were I feel very lucky for the support I have in ent everything was—the cold winter, the suspected of being gay. I grew up as an altar my personal and professional circle. I want accents—it was all new to me. boy and looking back, I realize how men- people to be intentional in their actions, When I got here, I remembered what my tally tough I was. use their platform and privilege to make parents would always say to me: excellence I finally saw light at the end of the tunnel impactful change and help dismantle sys- is a great equalizer. At the time, I believed when my parents decided to move to Can- temic racism. I remain hopeful about our that to be true even for a Black person or a ada in search of a better life. Deep down, I ongoing fight. —Interview by Tiffany Mongu,

closeted gay person. knew that was my ticket to freedom! Journalism ’20 PHUNG (MO) MONICA BY PHOTOGRAPH

32 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 ryerson.ca/ryersonfund ALUMNI DIARY

Cheryll Case says planning is a “powerful space” that can make PROFILES serious change with the Making a case right approach. for human rights in urban planning

Cheryll Case on the power planners have to make cities work BY JEYAN JEGANATHAN, JOURNALISM ’13

FOR CHERYLL CASE (Urban and non-profits and community groups before Regional Planning ’17), urban plan- building and reimagining their neighbour- ning is about people, not buildings. hoods to ensure their input. As founder and principal urban planner For example, one of the many things the of CP Planning, an organization that spe- COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted in the cializes in community building, she helps city is the issue of food insecurity. Case is a communities reimagine spaces to work bet- big supporter of FoodShare Toronto’s push ter for them. to convert the city’s golf courses into urban “I feel like a lot of times in [urban] plan- farms, which would allow community mem- ning, there’s a lot of attention on the final bers to grow their own produce. product and what it’s going to be—and not “What really drew me to planning specif- enough focus on the people, the conversa- ically is its role as a facilitator,” says Case. tions that need to take place and the relation- Last year, she held a workshop that envi- ships that need to be formed,” says Case. sioned a city through feminist perspectives. Since co-authoring a 2017 report, titled “What would a city look like if it was told Protecting the Vibrancy of Residential through a feminist narrative and was built Neighbourhoods, Case has been an outspo- with feminist intentions and feminist inter- ken advocate for affordable housing, inclu- ests?” she says. 18 sive planning, and applying a human-rights Planning needs to evolve from the con- lens to planning projects. cept of planning in the “public interest” to She believes the core of a human rights- a practice of planning through a human based approach is an understanding that rights approach. “The concept of public inequality and marginalization denies peo- interest has traditionally meant the white ple their rights and keeps them in poverty. homeowner, the white male homeowner She firmly believes planners have the power with the wife. Not the single woman, not to shape how cities work. the immigrant,” she says. A human rights There’s a shift in how the industry views approach, Case says, has changed planning affordable housing, she says, citing the fed- processes that have discriminated against eral government’s National Housing Strategy women and people with disabilities. Act, which in 2019, recognized adequate The legacy of applying this approach to housing as a fundamental human right. improve health, equity and inclusion shows

Her firm prioritizes cultivating relation- that planning is a “powerful space” that can PHOTOGRAPH BY NABRA BADR, FASHION COMMUNICATION ’ ships with marginalized communities, make cities better places to live.

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PROFILES BORN IN NEW DELHI and raised in Ena Chadha is working Brampton, Ont., Ena Chadha remem- to enact change from Personal experience fuels policy research the inside out. bers her family being extremely commu- nity-oriented growing up. But it was time PhD student aims to advance health equity for people living with HIV spent at Ryerson pursuing her journalism BY KELSEY ADAMS, JOURNALISM ’17 degree that solidified the path she would eventually take—as a human rights lawyer for over 25 years and the current chief com- missioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC). “Ryerson has always been a community that was much more energetic on issues [like] social justice, poverty, immigration,” she said. “Those were all issues I was inter- ested in as well.” Chadha has taken the helm of the OHRC at a crucial time, given its inquiry into Toronto Police Services, a force that has received criticism for years of violent inter- actions with the city’s Black, Indigenous and racialized communities, and people with mental health concerns. The OHRC Lived experience recently worked extensively with research- has given Christian Hui ers to examine these incidents of violence. purpose in his The goal is to enact tangible results, research work. Chadha says, something activists and com- munity organizers have been clamoring for over the years. “It’s [about enacting] pro- active change to our current policing mod- els, and how policing interacts with other human services,” she said. “Making sure that we fix the gaps in the system that are currently leading to either underservice of certain racialized groups or over policing of certain racialized groups.” Just before taking on the one-year chief commissioner position, Chadha was appointed by the province’s education min- ister to serve as a co-reviewer of the Peel District School Board, in 2019. The review FOR CHRISTIAN HUI, lived experi- service organizations can come together groups other than white gay men. While was tasked with looking at systemic dis- ences cannot be separated from his to co-create sustainable health equity poli- PrEP has become more accessible, much crimination in the school board, specifi- professional work. Instead, he leans into his cies. “The core of my work is to examine the work remains so more can benefit from it. cally, anti-Black racism. identity as a racialized, queer, HIV-positive power relations and historical events that Hui learned he was HIV positive when he “I think what people don’t realize is the settler to inform his academic research. led to the oppression and marginalization of was 25 years old. Later, he sought support effect of systemic racism and discrimina- A PhD student in Ryerson’s Policy Studies specific communities,” Hui says. from Toronto’s Asian Community AIDS tion, and how damaging and long lasting program and a Vanier Canada Graduate Racialized and Indigenous people, trans Services (ACAS), an organization provid- PROFILES that effect is in creating many of the crises Scholarship recipient, Hui earlier com- people, people who use drugs, sex workers ing culturally safe services where he felt at that we deal with today.” pleted undergraduate and master’s degrees and even cisgender heterosexual people who home. “As opposed to feeling ashamed when Putting community From concerns with how curriculum fails in Ryerson’s social work program. make up a smaller portion of those affected I sought out services at mainstream orga- to reflect Canada’s different cultures, to a For his doctoral studies, he is embarking by HIV will be considered in the research. nizations, I began to thrive with ACAS and lack of racialized teachers in the classroom, on a multi-layered research process, called Historically, research and a lack of access started volunteering. ” at the centre of change she and her team identified issues to remedy the Positive Health Equity Action Plan. His to resources have done considerable harm What some in his field might consider a Ontario Human Rights Commissioner the inequitable dynamics they create. goal is to explore the impact of privilege to Indigenous, Black and other racialized bias, he considers a strength that allows him When thinking about what makes her on the clinical health outcomes of people communities, Hui says. In his past decade to reflect the needs of his communities. Ena Chadha takes the helm at a critical time, investigating work worth doing, it comes back to commu- living with HIV. of activist work, he noticed the disparities “Some people may argue I’m not objective, the root of inequality in systems of power nity. “The most fulfilling part of my work as He also wants to build a space where his in access and uptake of new biomedical HIV or that I’m biased, yet I’m proud that it’s BY TAYO BERO a human rights lawyer is when there’s a pos- community advisory board, policy makers, prevention such as pre-exposure prophy- lived experiences and values that inform itive change for an individual person, or I

researchers and representatives of AIDS laxix (PrEP) which had not fully benefitted and fuel my work.” ’18 COMMUNICATION FASHION NABRA BADR, BY PHOTOGRAPHS know it’s helped a community.”

36 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 37 Class Notes UPDATES FROM ALUMNI ON PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL MILESTONES

Don Laughton Hotel, Resort and Restaurant 1950s Administration ’55 1960s 1970s “I spent 40 years in business, Ralph Cameron then volunteered for more Alan Bender Anthony Bishop Electrical Technology ’55 than 20 years, including Business ’69 Hotel and Restaurant ’70 “It’s hard to believe where heading up the creation of the “Married, with two amazing Anthony retired as a business the time went. The changes Dixie Bloor Neighbourhood kids, and three amazing instructor at the Northern Ryerson has undergone since Centre, chairing Community grandchildren, I’m currently Alberta Institute of Technology 1955 are formidable. May Living , and celebrating 48 years in in Edmonton. He and his wife those surviving keep well. volunteering full-time for 18 business interiors, specializing celebrated their 50th wedding I hope they are all enjoying years at Kerry’s. I was named in healthcare, corporate, anniversary in July. retirement as I am. I’ve been DID YOU Mississauga’s Citizen of the commercial interior design, KNOW... married 53 years and plan Year in 1990.” build, renovations and Richard Boulton to move to an apartment furnishings.” Journalism ’70 You could be a Fred Messacar next year. I recall being on career mentor. “I was delighted to receive transmitter duty at CJRT the Find out more at Mechanical and Industrial James (Jim) Hopkinson my 50th anniversary Ryerson night of , Ryerson’s Engineering ’53 Electrical Technology ’65 Alumni gold pin. I worked and returning home with Tri-Mentoring. “I graduated at the tender “I married after graduation. in my chosen field for 36 flooding and downed trees.” Email pmentor@ age of 19. Ryerson graduates We raised two daughters and years, and joined the City ryerson.ca. were greatly sought after now have a grandson. I joined of Toronto’s Parks, Forestry William Green as technicians of the the engineering department and Recreation department Electrical Technology ’55 highest calibre. I was hired at Allis Chalmers in in 2006, where I am still “At 85-years-young, I am by Canada’s largest paint and then worked in the field employed at age 74, as a still participating in church company and became the with their dealers, later joining customer service rep. I’m activities, am a member of two senior systems designer, one of them for the rest of my also teaching chess. I worked committees in our local Rotary analyst and programmer of career. I’ve been retired for for the Leafs for five years as Club, on the executive of our the corporate mainframe. 10 years. I’ve enjoyed singing editor of the souvenir program, Men’s Probus Club, and an I have been retired for 27 years. barber shop harmony as a along with the Blue Jays, Argos active veteran in the Veterans Ralph Cameron, My most important successes hobby for the past 50 years.” and Winnipeg Jets. I served 13 Electrical Technology ’55. After graduating from the Secretarial and Administrative Studies program in ‘80 and ‘81, friends Angie Memorial Legion Br. 498 in are my three children, seven DiGuglielmo, Angie Bavosa, Lily Fidelj, Martha Potocnik, Anita Buna, Susie Garnicki and Patty McCarthy years as feature sportswriter Grand Bend.” grandchildren, and nine Don Lawrence (and not pictured, Janice Williams and Mary Mariani) are celebrating 40 years of memorable moments with TV Guide and travelled great-grandchildren. Architecture ’65 together. “Through personal ups and downs, we are always there for each other. Who would have known around the world to cover eight Success and happiness do “After graduation, I spent back then that we would still be friends in 2020? Thank you, Ryerson for this great gift of friendship!” World Cups and five European exist in the heart more so four years with various writes Anita Charlesworth. soccer championships. I still than in the workplace.” architectural firms, and have my stories from the daily branched out into sales with Ryersonian student newspaper Renton Patterson the manufacturer Modernfold. from the 1960s!” Electrical Technology ’55 I later co-founded Lawrence- just in time to enter 14 days graduated in business from “After graduation, I worked Paine Limited and we were of quarantine.” Ryerson on the president’s at CGE and later became a the Modernfold distributor honour list. I’ve continued teacher of electricity. My high for 25 years. I sold my interest Brian MacLellan curling, now going on 65 years, school students converted in 2003 and retired. My wife Business ’60 participating in provincial and an MG sports car, a boat, and I moved from Toronto to “I’ve been retired for 25 years Canadian championships.” and then a brand new 1977 Lakefield, where we pursued after a 35-year career with my DID YOU Dodge Aspen station wagon to golf, curling, boating and first employer, John Deere Nick Prokopchuk KNOW... electric drive. I subsequently travel. I also drove a school Limited, in Hamilton, Ont. Mechanical Technology ’65 purchased a 2012 Nissan Leaf bus for Lakefield schools for I married my beautiful wife, Nick worked at Algoma Steel Top 5 webinars electric car, a Princecraft 13 years. Sadly, I was widowed Hope, in 1962. We have two and retired after 35 years of are available BRIOe electric pontoon boat in 2019, but I still pursue beautiful children, Sandra, service. He drove a school free on the and finally a 2018 Tesla Model my interests, including taking and David, and are proud bus for 15 years after RU Connections 3. My sincere early belief in a seven-week trip to Australia grandparents of five university retirement, and taught Youtube channel electric transportation has and New Zealand this past graduates. Our grandson, aviation hydraulics at Sault been vindicated.” winter, arriving home Madison Trueman, recently for four years.

38 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 39 CLASS NOTES

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Ernest M. Isaac in Ontario and PEI. We have Jeff Gruen Bob Millard public radio/media association Geodetic Sciences ’76 three sons.” RTA ’80 Industrial Engineering ’82 in the U.S., the Public Media “After enjoying 40 years “I got out of the biz in 2019 Bob and wife Leslie Ann Journalism Association. 2000s of work in the profession, after an amazing career in Muloin, Social Work ’86, She is the managing editor completing my masters and radio, TV and film.No regrets, have three children, Emily, of a regional public radio Jessica Frey PhD years ago, I reached 1980s only successes! Time now to Olivia and Zachary. “After collaborative across seven Communications and Culture ’09 retirement and now spend relax and enjoy wine in Prince graduation, I worked my Mountain West states. Jessica has worked in the time with my seven Ann (Billick) Mittag Edward County. I started way through the design, film and publishing industries, grandchildren. I’ve been RTA ’80 Wine O’Clock Tours in 2019.” process and manufacturing Derek Noble publishing dozens of award- accepted into medical school, “I was one of the first engineering department at Theatre Technical winning novels, short stories, and at age 72, am waiting employees hired as a server at Palvinder Kaur Murata Erie. I later moved Production ’96 graphic novels and comic to resume, as soon as the Oakham lounge, hired before Industrial Engineering ’81 back to Toronto and worked “After touring with various scripts. Her ninth novel, coronavirus departs from us!” they even opened. “In 2012, I founded an for Canada Packers. I started acts around the world, I have The Woman Who Fell Through I paid for my education with award-winning non-profit the Lamus Group company, settled in Orillia for the past Time was awarded a Watty Ezio Osti this salary. My first job after organization called Langar with two of my former 10 years and run the lighting Award in 2019, picked up for Business ’70 graduation was as a broadcast Seva Meal & Support Services. Industrial Engineering department at the casino.” exclusive digital distribution “I have retired from the journalist assistant at Ryerson. Our volunteers deliver a classmates, David Berger through the reading app Ontario government. My I graduated 25 years after my week’s worth of hot vegetarian and Frank Decicco. I joined Asifa Nurani Radish, and became available son, Michael, also attended mom Marie (Nisbet) Billick meals at no charge to as a business Occupational and in print in 2019. Dietitian Elisa Levi, Ryerson, graduating in graduated from Fashion at the individuals who are sick professor and did various Linda (Hayman) Murray Nutrition and Food ’01, is Public Health ’95 Commerce ’05.” top of her class. My mom will and unable to cook.” other roles. I went on to obtain Journalism ’83 now studying medicine. “I pursued my masters in Zeeshan Gauba be 88 this year.” a master’s degree in adult A former business owner public health at Yale and later Information Judi Ritter Felix Mifsud education from St. Francis and municipal councillor, worked as a research assistant Management ’08 Radio and Television Arts (RTA) ’70 Jeff Goldhar Industrial Engineering Xavier University.” Linda retired and then at Sunnybrook Hospital. “I co-founded Judi worked at CFTO for RTA ’80 Certificate ’80 returned to work in a I also taught an international the Connect 18 years as AD on all their “I am entering my 30th year “I worked as a maintenance Dina Morrone residential care facility for health course at Ryerson. IT Conference, productions, drama, as a graphics designer for machinist at Sidbec Dosco in Fashion ’83 adults with autism. The my current role is AVP of In 2000, I secured a job with one of Canada’s largest sports, game shows and CBC News. I started my career Etobicoke until 1996 when the “Upon graduating, I moved married mother of three is corporate engineering in Aga Khan Foundation in undergraduate business variety shows. She later with some wonderful years company closed. I was then to Rome, Italy, where I worked also a grandmother of three. Winnipeg.” Kenya. After 19 years in technology conferences. I’ve worked as a freelancer for at CityTV in various roles. an accountant at my wife’s as an actress, TV host, model development, I moved to held various consulting and many production companies, My wife and I have two adult nursery school, helping with and voiceover talent. Now in Roger Pigeon Trevor Wilson Calgary in 2017 with my management positions in the stations and networks. children and now live as empty other duties to keep a safe Los Angeles, I have written Civil Engineering ’82 Landscape Architecture ’82 husband and two sons. I have digital media, marketing, nesters in Aurora, Ont., with and healthy environment for and performed my award- “In April, I retired from the “Since 1985, I have been done a consultancy with the information technology, and Jacqueline Simm our rescue dog, Monty.” children. We retired in 2012.” winning solo show, “The City of Niagara Falls fire a landscape designer World Health Organization, financial services industries. Theatre (Dance) ’75 Italian in Me,” based on my department as a captain providing professional Aga Khan Foundation in In Cleveland, I am the vice- A retired elementary teacher, time in Rome. I also wrote the and fire prevention officer. landscape architectural East Africa and am currently president of client success at Jacqueline has returned play “Moose on the Loose,” I previously held the position design-build and consulting on a 15-month contract with a data analytics firm. I also to her passion: dance. She which Mel Brooks saw and of senior plan examiner with services for residential and Alberta Health Services. volunteer for the Citizen’s occasionally teaches ballet said “I cannot tell a lie, Moose the building department.” commercial clients. I am Foundation to raise funds for classes, assists choreographers on the Loose is really funny an associate member of Nicole Pearson educating underprivileged as rehearsal director, serves and surprisingly moving.” Randolph Sidoo the Ontario Association of Fashion ’94 children in Pakistan. My wife on the board of KasheDance I am on the artistic board Chemical Engineering ’86 Landscape Architects.” Nicole works in film and Saadia and I are proud parents and assists various artists with of Theatre West, a voiceover “I spent 10 years in Trinidad television production as a of two wonderful children, their grant applications. actress, and a writer and and Tobago as operations costume supervisor. Noor and Shaan.” executive editor for the manager of an edible oil John Simpson Eden magazine.” processing facility. I married 1990s Peter Simmons Shakir Hussein Urban and Regional Planning ’75 my wife, Rachael, and we had Public Administration ’97 Geographic Betty Phillips Simpson Jessica Frey, Lori Molnar three kids. We then moved to Kate Concannon Peter completed graduate Analysis ’05 Secretarial Science ’76 Communications Gerontology ’87 Australia where I worked for a Journalism ’91 studies at “I was honoured Betty and John are retired and and Culture ’09, “I own my own business, canola processing business. Kate received and . to receive the received a have returned to Sydenham Watty award for I design interiors and I After 12 years, we moved the top national Following a successful 25-year Brampton Board Lake, Ont., after 30 years in her latest book. am also an environmental to Alberta and I took on an editorial award, career in the public sector, he of Trade Top 40 Under 40 Alberta. “We winter in Arizona gerontologist and a AVP role with Richardson PMJA 2020 Editor founded the consulting service Award, which celebrates

and spend the rest of our time watercolour artist.” PHOTOGRAPH BY (BOTTOM LEFT) FISHER RYAN International. After 10 years, of the Year, from the leading Knox Dalton and Associates. the hard work of dynamic

40 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 41 CLASS NOTES

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Alexa Jovanovic, Fashion ’16, speaks at Tech Toronto, wearing the Aille Design denim jacket with Braille beading. young leaders. I completed University of Miami. Married Maggie Macpherson Philip Masetti Leite and producer. The network a masters of engineering at in France in 2018, my Radio and Television Arts ’13 Journalism ’11 re-broadcasted CBC radio the and husband and I live in Miami Maggie is a photojournalist Last summer, Philip fulfilled In memoriam programs and produced news, an executive MBA degree and recently had a baby boy. with CBC Vancouver who his dream to cross the weather and sports of interest at Queen’s University. I’m I am working at a national won the Personality Award Americas on horseback. Yvonne (Bonnie) Brennan to Canadian forces stationed presently the director of litigation firm practising in the 13th annual National He completed his eight-year RTA ’56 in Europe. Later, Ken worked transportation and planning maritime law.” Pictures of the Year journey in Calgary and served Bonnie died Jan. 5, 2020. as an executive producer of at 407 ETR.” competition, for her portrait as the honorary marshal of Her career began at CHCH-TV programming for TVO. Alexa Jovanovic of Stephen (Red) Robinson, the 2020 Calgary Stampede. Hamilton and CBC Television He also taught at various Mabel Kane Fashion ’16 a former resident of He began the trip in 2012, in Toronto. She later served Ontario colleges. Nursing ’07 Alexa Jovanovic is the founder Vancouver’s Downtown crossing 12 countries and as executive director of “I returned to school late of Aille Design (pronounced: Eastside Oppenheimer Park 26,000 kilometres. the National Catholic Natalie (Niessink) MacLaurin in life. I earned a master’s eye), an emerging fashion tent city. Communications Centre, and RTA ’85 in education from Yorkville brand that is changing Lauren Riihimaki director of the Office of Public Natalie died April 9, 2020 at University and continued society’s perspective on Joshua Graphic Communications Information of the Canadian age 56. She was the beloved to teach adult learners. inclusive design by creating Manansala Management ’15 Conference of Catholic wife of Jay MacLaurin I published a book for women, fashion forward pieces with Nursing ’19 With nine million subscribers Bishops. She also served as with whom she devotedly Beauty-full: control your Swarovski Braille beading. “I am a on YouTube, Lauren is the a member of the Religious shared more than 35 years of physical, mental and spiritual The Braille is fully legible registered nurse at host and executive producer Advisory Board of the CBC. friendship and marriage. self through menopause. and the phrases describe the St. Michael’s Hospital. of Craftopia on HBOMax. Bonnie was awarded a Gabriel garment’s colour, style, fit and I work in different inpatient The show follows 9- to by the Catholic Broadcasters Harold Mann Elisa Levi care content to allow Braille units throughout the hospital, 15-year-old contestants Association of the USA, and Business Management ’85 Nutrition and Food ’01 readers to fully envision the and am a part of St. Michael’s putting their imaginations a Papal medal for her work in Harold died July 6, 2020 at Awarded the Brodie Medical piece. Products are created COVID-19 Assessment to the test in larger-than-life religious communications. age 59. He met his wife Karen Learner Leadership Award Katia Taylor alongside a diverse team of Centre Team. This pandemic challenges. Dubbed by Forbes After retiring in 1990, she Mann, Retail Management ’85, by the Canadian Medical Image Arts ’01 blind, visually impaired and has provided me with so magazine as the “millennial continued working as a at Ryerson, and they married Association, Elisa works as “I have been successfully sighted fashion lovers which many opportunities to Martha Stewart,” Lauren has communications consultant in their second year. Harold a dietitian and is in medical running my Toronto-based allows the designs to maintain learn and grow, both also worked on projects and worked on several and Karen worked seven days school to become a family photography business for the a desirable fashion-forward personally and as a health- for Disney, Starbucks and projects for the Archdiocese a week, all summer long, with physician. As an Anishinaabe past 17 years. I specialize in aesthetic, foster community care provider.” Procter & Gamble. of Toronto. Dickie Dee ice cream bikes member of Chippewas of weddings, family, maternity, and advocate for the to pay for their schooling and Nawash First Nation, she and newborn portraiture. I also importance of inclusivity in Douglas Leach their wedding. Harold began helped develop the First photograph corporate events mainstream products. To learn Electrical and Computer his career with Imperial Nations guiding principles for and headshots. I have been more, follow @ailledesign Engineering ’58 Tobacco, and later worked in the use and implementation married for 11 years and have on Instagram and shop the Douglas died January 15, 2020 computers and networking of Canada’s new food guide. an eight-year-old daughter.” collection at ailledesign.com. at age 81. Douglas and his systems in Toronto, then in She also helped develop an wife were avid sailors on the Atlanta, Georgia. The couple Indigenous cancer strategy Alexandra MacAulay Ottawa River, the Thousand had three children, eventually and plans to work with Abdelwahab Islands, and later intracoastal settling in Bobcaygeon. Harold DID YOU rural patients. 2010s KNOW... Journalism ’11 waterway systems, spending was a founding partner of “I have had a number of several winters around the OptionPay Inc. and Real Time Liz Roelands Mike Auksi The Ryerson careers and travelled to Bahamas before returning Merchant Services. Theatre ’08 Master’s of Social Work ’13 Library invites you 25 countries. I worked for to Canada. Douglas made Liz was awarded a Daytime Mike is a PhD student at to submit images the Toronto Star, Montreal significant contributions to Carol Shayne Markusoff Emmy for her work on the McGill University in to the COVID-19 Gazette and Global News, and Radio Amateurs of Canada as Urban and Regional Planning ’84 Canadian children’s kinesiology sciences, digital archive. Visit moved into communications well as several Ottawa clubs. Carol died on July 4, 2020. library.ryerson.ca show Dino Dana. She shared focusing on Indigenous consulting where I worked She enjoyed a long career the Best Special Effects ice hockey. with various companies, Ken Mackay in the public service, first in Costume/Makeup/Hairstyling including a year in Guyana RTA ’60 Toronto and later in Winnipeg. win with special effects Danielle Gauer with Cuso International. Ken died April 12, 2020. She retired in 2013 after and makeup artist Karlee Criminology ’10 I pursued a master’s degree After graduation, Ken joined serving as the Manitoba Morse, and costume designer “After attending law school in international studies in Lauren Riihimaki, Graphic Communications Management ’15, has nine the Canadian Forces Network Ombudsman. Christine Toye. The win is her in Ottawa, I obtained my London and now work for million subscribers to her YouTube channel. She is executive producer at its headquarters in Metz, —Christine Julien-Sullivan,

second Daytime Emmy. LL.M in Maritime Law at the Global Affairs Canada.” PHOTOGRAPH BY (TOP LEFT) MIRNA CHACHIN, TECHTO and host of HBO Max’s Craftopia. France, as an announcer Journalism ’97

42 Ryerson University Magazine / Winter 2021 Winter 2021 / Ryerson University Magazine 43 180277

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4/0 (C M Y K) REMEMBER WHEN? WHILE NO ONE can predict what Department of Health was created. Some will happen with the COVID-19 crisis, communities were destroyed, or changed we can draw on history for an understand- forever. But Canadians also proved resilient: 1918 vs. 2020: ing of how previous generations survived developing stronger senses of community pandemics. The 1918 “Spanish Flu” was through volunteerism and collective action. A look at amongst the deadliest in history: killing Still, there are crucial differences between an estimated 50 to 100 million worldwide, the pandemics. In 1918, there was no pub- pandemics roughly five per cent of the global populace, lic health insurance, diets were poorer, and including nearly 55,000 Canadians. sanitation standards were lower. Vaccination Schools, businesses and public places programs were in their infancy, while anti- in Canada were closed. Facemasks and social distanc- viral drugs and other frontline technologies ing were mandatory, though some refused to used today were non-existent. History professor traces follow the rules. Quarantines were enforced. And despite advances in medicine, the old the lessons learned from Just as in 2020, marginalized populations ideas of basic prevention—social distancing previous generations were ravaged. Indigenous communities and quarantine—remain the best defence. faced a mortality rate five times the national We’ve learned that only through patient and average. in Toronto concerted action can we manage the histori- developed a vaccine by late 1918, but offered cal realities of pandemics. —Arne Kislenko consumers no guarantee it would work. When the virus dissipated, Canada Arne Kislenko is a professor of History at emerged a different country. A federal Ryerson University.

Children at Victoria Park Forest School in Toronto practise blowing their noses in 1913.

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