Class Notes





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David Price, JD'14,

was appointed to the University of Calgary's Board of Governors in March 2023.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Law
Emily Opthof, BSc(FN)'17,

was awarded the silver medal at the 2024 Skate Ontario Adult Figure Skating Championships in Kanata, Ontario in the Silver Artistic event. Emily also achieved a season-best score in the Silver Freeskate event and is looking forward to training again for the 2024-25 season.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Brescia University College
Dawn Macdonald, BSc'97,

published her first poetry collection, Northerny, with the University of Alberta Press in February 2024.

Literature - 1990
Science
Vince Bacani, MBA’04,

competed against 26 other past champions on the top-rated US quiz show Jeopardy! in the Season 39 Wild Card Tournament. His quarterfinal aired on February 14, 2024.

Read more.

Personal Achievements - 2000
Ivey Business School
Louis Michel Gratton, HBA’69,

released the English version of their third book of fiction, Illusion of Power. The story takes place in Montreal’s city hall about a mayor who confronts administrative and political pitfalls while navigating his personal life.

Literature - 1960
Ivey Business School
Michel Bonin, MBA’71,

shares their fourth digital solo album, Michel Bonin Plays Love Songs, a collection of 11 classic instrumental piano tunes.

Read more.

Personal Achievements - 1970
Ivey Business School
Martin Bauman, BA'15,

won the Pottersfield Prize for Creative Nonfiction for his debut memoir, Hell of a Ride, about a 7,000-kilometre solo bicycle trek across Canada in support of mental health initiatives. The book comes out March 15, 2024.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Farah Ismail, BScN’00, MScN’03,

is a masters prepared nurse and lawyer. Check out the attached feature in Lexpert Magazine about her journey as SVP, Chief Legal/ Privacy / Compliance at SE Health.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Health Sciences
Hillary Miller, MLIS'18,

will marry Andrew Pople in June 2024.

Western Weddings - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Xueli (Sherry) Wang, BMOS’17,

celebrated her wedding in Sanya, China with other Western alumni in January 2024.

Western Weddings - 2010
Social Science
Laura Bontje, BEd'12,

will celebrate the release of her debut picture book in March 2024. Published by Amicus Ink, Was It a Cat I Saw? is the story of a lost cat, a found friend and a girl who speaks only in palindromes.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Education
Brittany DeSantis, BA'13,

is the artist and internationally recognized calligrapher behind @peakpaperco. Her guided grief journal titled Forget You Not from Blue Star Press & Penguin Random House releases in February 2024.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Annalice Hayes, EdD’18,

published a children’s book in February 2024. With This Note is a story about listening to your body and trusting your gut feelings.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Education
Lorin MacDonald, JD'09,

was named a 2023 recipient of the Governor General's Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case. She was also invested as a 2022 member of the Order of Ontario to recognize her significant contribution to gender equality and disability rights in Canada.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Law
Josh Barr, MBA’17,

and Amar Gupta, MBA'17, founded brüst protein coffee and were featured on CBC's Dragons' Den in January 2024. They received three offers and closed one deal with Arlene Dickinson to fund their functional coffee business. brüst is now available at Costco, Loblaws, and through retailers across Canada.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Ivey Business School
Shelan Markus, JD'14,

is the Executive Director at Level, a national justice education and human rights nonprofit. Shelan is leading Level in building a future of equity and justice through innovative programs focused on youth, law students and the legal sector.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Law
Stephen (Junnan) Choi, BA'12,

is the president of SXULTRASONIC Group, an innovative research and development enterprise based in Shenzhen, China. In 2023, the company was named Top Drug Discovery and Solutions Provider in Asia-Pacific, awarded by Pharma Tech Outlook magazine.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Social Science
Kent Floreani, DDS’87, MClD’92,

celebrates being accepted to dental school 40 years ago. Kent is still working part-time and plans to ski and travel in 2024.

Celebrations - 1980
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Melissa Marr, MBA’22,

welcomed twin daughters Kaia and Isabel on October 24, 2023. Mom and dad are very excited to welcome the mini Mustangs to their family.

Mini Mustangs - 2020
Ivey Business School
Vanessa Lee, MSc’16,

and Brandon Harvey, MD’18, welcomed their son, Ellis, in July 2022. 

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Donald Hitch, MD'49,

died in March 2023 in Hamilton, ON at the age of 97. Trained as a medic during World War Two and later specializing in ENT, Don worked at the Hamilton McGregor clinic from 1954-1981.

Read more.

In Memory - 1940
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Heather Desserud, BA'07,

has joined the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), NATO's new flagship innovation program, as Communications Director. She will be taking up her post in London, UK in early 2024.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Sonia Palleck, DDS'93, MCID'99,

has written and published a four-book series in 2023. Leave the Little Light On is a love story for humanity. Sonia painted the covers and narrated the audiobooks while working as a full-time orthodontist. 

Read more.

Literature - 1990
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Elizabeth Soltis, BA’88,

published their first book Authentic Collaboration: A Bridge to Meaningful Connection in 2023. The book is about developing healthier relationships with yourself, others and the Earth.

Read more.

Literature - 1980
King's University College
Tim Covell, BA’95,

began Somewhat Grumpy Press Inc. in the spring of 2021. At that time, the company had published one book. The company now has 10 non-fiction titles from six authors, and more coming soon.

Literature - 1990
Arts & Humanities
Louise Ferland, MD’84,

is hosting a 40th class reunion on Homecoming weekend, Sept. 27 to 29, 2024. Please contact ldferland@comcast.net and linda.sinnaeve@hotmail.com for more information.

Celebrations - 1980
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Cristine de Clercy, PhD’00,

retired from Western in July 2023 and is a professor emerita in political science. She now holds the prestigious endowed Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership and is Full Professor of Political Studies at Trent University.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Social Science
Vanessa Lee, MSc’16,

and Brandon Harvey, MD’18, purchased their first home together in Carp, ON in November 2023.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Michael Bury, LL.B'91,

joined Neuberger & Partners LLP Criminal Lawyers as a senior partner in Toronto.  

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Law
Susan Buchanan, BA'66,

passed away peacefully from acute Lymphoma on December 2, 2021 in Ottawa. 

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Arts & Humanities
Randi Druzin, BA’89,

published her most recent book Behind the Mask in October 2023. It includes profiles of 12 legendary hockey goalies, emphasizing the personality traits that make each one unique.

Literature - 1980
Social Science
Stephen Andebirhan, BSc’16,

purchased their first home in Glen Cairn, London, ON.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Science
Maureen Wareham, LLB'87,

received the Governance Professional of the Year from the Governance Professionals of Canada 2023 Excellence in Governance Awards.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Law
Tara Burke, MClSc’23,

got the job of their dreams as a school board speech-language pathologist.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Health Sciences
Heather Desserud, BA'07,

was recognized in November 2023 by WXN as one of Canada's Most Powerful Women in the Amex Emerging Leaders category, recognizing women who have been targeted for successive leadership positions within their organization.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Spencer Sandor, MPA'13,

is a senior advisor at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Policy Centre.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Edna “Eddie” Dent, BScN’51,

passed away peacefully on October 22, 2023 after a 33-year career as a nurse at the Chatham-Kent and Lambton Public Health Units.

Read more.

In Memory - 1950
Health Sciences
Cherish De la Cruz, BA'98,

joined The Manely Firm P.C. as a managing estate planning attorney.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Maria Koropecky, BA'92,

self-published a novel called Closer to Indigo in September 2022. Set in Victoria, BC, the story takes us through the months that lead to the lead character’s pilgrimage in Spain.

Read more.

Literature - 1990
Arts & Humanities
Ben Robinson, MLIS '18,

published his first book The Book of Benjamin from Palimpsest Press in October 2023. This literary essay on names, birth and grief is the testament of both a son and a father, contrasting genealogy with larger communal narratives. 

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Robert Janes, LLD’13,

published Museums and Societal Collapse: The Museum as Lifeboat in September 2023. This book presents evidence and theories around collapse and extinction while highlighting the responsibility of museums in our changing world. 

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Not Applicable
Timothy Reynolds, BEd’84,

released two novels in October 2023 from Cometcatcher Press. She Runs with Wolves, He Sits with Kittens is a snarky Toronto-set rom-com and The Gravity of Guilt is a future Earth-colony sci-fi thriller.

Read more.

Literature - 1980
Education
Jodi Annett-Kish, BA'02,

accepted the Executive Director position at the Elgin-St Thomas Youth Employment Counselling Centre. Jodi is passionate about vocational rehabilitation and employment services and continues to be an advocate in her role.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Social Science
Thomas Comeau, BA'98,

became the first Toronto police officer to summit Nepal’s Lobuche East Peak – a 6,119m mountain in April 2023. Tom's Road to 8000M project raises awareness of first responder mental health as he works towards summiting some of the world's highest peaks.

Wild/Fun - 1990
Health Sciences
Nancy McCormick, BScN'69,

passed away August 3, 2023 in Kingston, ON. She led a distinguished career at the Montreal General Hospital, becoming head nurse of the Postpartum Unit. In 1987 she wed Ron Cunningham and moved to enjoy retirement in the Thousand Islands region.

In Memory - 1960
Health Sciences
Rochelle Menezes, BMOS'15,

won a Cannes Lions award for the second year in a row with OLG. The program celebrates creative campaigns in the lottery and gaming sector.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Social Science
Dana Kambris, MFE'18,

passed away in June 2023 after 27 years of achievements. She was a dedicated environmental, social and governance analyst, a climate action promoter, a mentor to and supporter of youth, and a graceful, silent cancer fighter.

Read more.

In Memory - 2010
Social Science
Reshel Perera, BSc'16, MMASc'17, MPH'19,

and Jason Knapp, BSc'17, MSc'19, met through Western University during a study-abroad semester in Uganda in 2017. Jason proposed on campus in September 2021 and they were married in March 2023.

Western Weddings - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Megan Siddall, BA'20,

recently secured a position at Lambton College as an alumni and donor relations coordinator.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Social Science
Arpan Khanna, BA'12,

was elected as a member of Parliament for Oxford, Ontario in June 2023.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Social Science
Awais Khan, BA'08,

published his third book, Someone Like Her with Orenda Books in August 2023. Awais’ writing has garnered immense critical acclaim and was reviewed by magazines and newspapers in the UK and Pakistan.

Literature - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Douglas Busby, MD'60, MSc'64,

recently published his professional autobiography and fourth book, My Experiences in Medicine, Theology, and Along the Way. His fascinating experiences began as a pioneer in space clinical medicine and ended as an interim minister and explorer of spiritual healing.

Literature - 1960
Health Sciences
Keith Dobson, PhD'80,

is a professor emeritus of clinical psychology at the University of Calgary. In 2023, Keith was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in recognition of his advocacy in mental health and the promotion of evidence-based practice.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Social Science
Lorin MacDonald, JD'09,

received the Government of Ontario's David C. Onley Award for Leadership in Accessibility, a Women Empowerment Award for Diversity, Equality & Inclusivity, and was included on Diversability’s Disability Impact List. These prestigious awards recognize her decades-long commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Law
Andrea Wishart, BSc’10, MSc’14,

defended her Ph.D. in August, and married Steven Denis in September 2023 in Saskatoon, SK.

Western Weddings - 2010
Science
Marcie Coles, HBA’21,

returned to London after two years and started a new job at Western in University Advancement in 2023.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Ivey Business School
Shagufi Habib, BEd'23,

landed a teaching contract with the Peel District School Board right out of teacher's college. She is grateful to Althouse and its outstanding professors.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Education
Haley Bowler-Cooke, BA'20,

recently became a self-published author.

Literature - 2020
Health Sciences
Barbara Black, BA'76,

came out of retirement and began a new role as Director & Integration Lead, Human Resources at AgeCare, a seniors’ residential community.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Arts & Humanities
George Kalopsis, BA’79,

was appointed as the Finance Committee Chair/Secretary/Treasurer for Head Injury Rehabilitation Ontario. In 2023, George has also been appointed Chairman of Specialty Risk and Intelligence Services Inc., a consulting agency.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Social Science
David McPherson, BA'92, MA'98,

published his third book, 101 Fascinating Canadian Music Facts featuring stories and surprising facts collected coast to coast.

Literature - 1990
Information & Media Studies
Sharon Frayne, BA'76,

recently had their young adult novel, The Sound of a Rainbow recommended by CBC Books. Sharon is a guest speaker at the Niagara Parks Coast to Coast Literary Series, Canada's Family Women in November 2023.

Literature - 1970
Arts & Humanities
Shira Lurie, BA'12, MA'13,

an assistant professor of history at Saint Mary's University, published her first book, The American Liberty Pole: Popular Politics and the Struggle for Democracy in the Early Republic with UVA Press in October 2023.

Literature - 2010
Social Science
Sarah Leedale, BA'15,

partner John, and enthusiastic big brother Rory welcomed baby Isaac Edward to the world in May 2023.

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Brescia University College
Keith Thomas, MD'87,

became Chief Medical Officer for NuraLogix, an AI tech company which was recently featured on CNN’s The Next Frontier.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Timothy Rylett, BA'97,

wrote a children's book, Kyla and Kyra Go To School.

Read more.

Literature - 1990
King's University College
Bruce Curtis, BA'84, MA'86, MPA'92,

was inducted into the College of Fellows of the Canadian Institute of Planners, the highest honour of the Institute, in recognition of excellence, exceptional achievements and service to the planning profession in Canada.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Social Science
Matthew Arnold, BA'96,

has been appointed Managing Director in the Office of the Chief Operating Officer, Global Markets, at RBC Capital Markets. Previously, Matt was a director and assistant general counsel at the company.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Mark Tse, MMus'11,

was hired as an assistant professor of instrumental music education at the University of Saskatchewan.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Don Wright Faculty of Music
Stephen (Junnan) Choi, BA'12,

operates four businesses in science and health-care fields, as well as manufacturing industries in China.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Social Science
Crystal Nantel, BScN'14,

is a proud first-time homeowner after a nine-year search.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Health Sciences
Richard Hobbs, BA'56,

passed away in November 2022. He was a career businessman and will be remembered with much love by friends and his extended family.

Read more.

In Memory - 1950
Ivey Business School
Gene Lotz, BFA’82,

published The Anguish of War, a two-volume set about the war dead of Windsor and Essex County. 

Literature - 1980
Arts & Humanities
William Brock, MBA'63,

passed away in December 2022. Cherished by his family, William had a successful 37-year career with Toronto Dominion Bank.

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Ivey Business School
Jenan Dean, BA'08,

launched Proof Line Farm Creamery & Farm Store in 2023. 

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments
Social Science
Judy Fairbarn, MBA'01,

Bolu Ogunyemi, BSc’08, and Jennie Coleman, MLIS’98, were named to the 2023 Globe and Mail Changemakers List, honouring emerging business leaders across Canada.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Social Science
F. Ian Wood, BA’57,

and Barbara, BA’57, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with their family in Cancun, Mexico. 

Celebrations - 1950
Arts & Humanities
John Jardine, BA’65,

passed away in March 2023. John had a long career in engineering and worked in Milwaukee, Toledo and Baltimore before returning to London, Ontario. He enjoyed tennis, golfing, skiing, trap-shooting, hunting and telling stories.

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Social Science
Melissa Bush, BA'14,

and family welcomed baby Cole in May 2023.

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Social Science
Jim Gall, MD'73,

published Peacocks & Thorns ~Humour & Beauty in the Darkest Times~: The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County A History and Reminiscences of a Palliative Care Physician in June 2023 with co-author Veronique Perrier Mandal.

Literature - 1970
Health Sciences
Elaine McCluskey, MA'77,

won the 2023 Alistair MacLeod prize for short fiction with Rafael Has Pretty Eyes (Goose Lane Editions). Her seventh book, a novel entitled The Gift Child, will be published in fall 2024.

Literature - 1970
Information & Media Studies
Wayne Henry, PhD'94,

published A Philosopher's Guide to Natural Capitalism: A Sustainable Future Within Reach in July 2023 by Routledge. The book posits that a sustainable future is possible without abandoning capitalism.

Read more.

Literature - 1990
Arts & Humanities
Peter Frayne, BA'77, BEd'79,

retired in June 2023 after more than 24 years in communications and media relations at Statistics Canada.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Arts & Humanities
Stephanie Hindley, BA'13,

married the love of her life, Jake Hindley, in Mexico in May 2023.

Western Weddings - 2010
Social Science
Erin Peters, BA'11,

is a first-time home buyer in 2023.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Social Science
Saad Ali, BMSc'22,

started Prosper Media, a digital marketing agency.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Walter Zielonko, MD'57,

passed away in April 2023. Walter retired in 2019 after a long career in medicine, including 22 years working at Homewood Sanitarium and at a private practice in Guelph. Beloved by his family, he played tennis, golf and bridge, loved to travel and was an avid sailor.

Read more.

In Memory - 1950
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Ian Ellingham, MBA'79,

won the 2023 G. Randy Roberts Service Award, awarded by the Ontario Association of Architects and exceptional contributions to the membership and profession.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Ivey Business School
Elkin Sierra Rios, PhD'18,

published his first book of poems, Insomnio de Fogones.

Literature - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Gloria Dickie, BA'12,

published her first book, Eight Bears: Mythic Past and Imperiled Future, in July 2023 through W.W. Norton. The book is a global exploration of the eight remaining species of bears and the dangers they face, from polar bears in the Arctic to the spectacled bear of the Andes.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Linda van Omme, BSc' 77,

published her second book, Glimpses: Sundown Manor, through Austin Macauley Publishing. Her third book is expected in 2024.

Read more.

Literature - 1970
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Laura Laperriere, BA'22,

published a debut novel, The Paths We Never Took, in March 2023. The book explores the themes of love, self-sabotage, and commitment while navigating young adulthood.

Read more.

Literature - 2020
Social Science
Daniel Peterson, LLB'71,

celebrated practicing law for 50 years in March 2023 and currently works in Calgary at DD West LLP.

Personal Achievements - 1970
Law
Robert Wynne, BA'65

passed away in December 2022 in Waterloo after a long history of Multiple Sclerosis. Bob's career was with Mutual Life of Canada at their head office where he helped clients and employees achieve financial security. He will be missed by his loved ones.

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Arts & Humanities
Allan Freedman, LLB'74,

finished 47 years of law practice and continues to act as general counsel to a private educational college.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Law
Paramvir Vassan, MPH'14,

recently was married.

Western Weddings - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Jeremy Smith, MA'07,

published a young adult novel Cultivating Sunshine in March 2023. 

Literature - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Julianne Kaplan, BA'01,

got engaged to Colin Duck in December 2021 during a walk at Western. They are looking forward to their wedding in July 2023.

Western Weddings - 2000
Social Science
Diane Kirby, BA'80,

retired from her career as a lawyer to be a writer. Her second book, Grief and the Spirit World: A Search for Comfort, was just released.

Read more.

Literature - 1980
Social Science
Meg U’Ren, BA’03, BEd’04, MPED’20,

filmed an episode of House Hunters International for HGTV which documented their house buying process in Ireland.

Personal Achievements - 2000
Education
Cornelia (Corry) Janssen-Hendriksen, BA'13,

wrote a young adult fiction novel titled Magic at the Rink, which explores grieving the loss of a loved one.

Read more.

Literature - 2010
Social Science
Chris Hillis, BSc'06,

is now the Chief of Oncology for Hamilton Health Sciences (Juravinski Cancer Centre).

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Science
Harry Drung, BEd'77,

published his first book Clinking Outside the Box, The World in a Glass. The book is an offbeat, humorous look at the world of wine, beer and spirits from the perspective of an industry veteran.

Read more.

Literature - 1970
Education
Kate Reynolds, MA’08, MLIS’09,

headlined the It's You I Like: The Music of Mr. Rogers concert in April 2023.

Read more.

Arts and Culture - 2000
Information & Media Studies
Janice Ishizaka, BA'94

had her business The Canadian Barley Tea Company featured in the February 2023 issue of Women's World Magazine.

Read more.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Arts & Humanities
Emily Osborne, BA'07,

published her debut book of poetry Safety Razor. These poems are shaped by her education at Western and her subsequent studies at the University of Cambridge in Old Norse language and Literature.

Read more.

Literature - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Delaney Carvalho, BA'15

and Ben Robertson, BA'12, were purple and proud at their wedding on September 10, 2022, along with bridesmaids other King's grads Rachel Sterling and Natasha Burtenshaw-deVries.

Western Weddings - 2010
King's University College
Paul Ling, DDS’93,

published a third graphic novel in the original series The Demonhuntress.

Read more.

Literature - 1990
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Amanda Philavong, MSc’20,

joined the Ivey Business School as their new Research Officer.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Science
Heather Jack, BA'88, BEd'89,

published her first children's book, Music Is All Around Me, about enjoying music through nature and the five senses.

Literature - 1980
Education
Winston Richards, PhD'71,

passed away December 19, 2022, at his home in Durham, North Carolina. A partner to his wife of 58 years and father to eight children, Winston was a distinguished professor of Mathematics and Statistics at Penn State University.

Read more.

In Memory - 1970
Science
Junaid Ahmad, BA'18,

launched his AI business; Jackrabbit Ops.

Learn more.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Arts & Humanities
John Van Rys, BA’84, MA’85,

won the 2022 Prairie Fire McNally Robinson Booksellers Short Fiction Contest for his story Excavations, which will appear in the summer edition of Prairie Fire.

Read more.

Literature - 1980
Arts & Humanities
Natalia Bradshaw, BA'79,

began as the Chair of the University of New South Wales Galleries Advisory Board. For more than 20 years, Natalia has been a pre-eminent advocate, advisor and benefactor for Australia's visual arts, culture, and design sectors.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Arts & Humanities
Judy Bidgood, BA'72,

released her fourth work of fiction, Our Forever Place, under her pen name Maren Hill. A retired chiropractor, she now writes women's fiction, romance, and children's literature.

Literature - 1970
Social Science
Kimberly MacLennan, BA’08,

passed away from breast cancer on December 3, 2022. She was a loving, wonderful friend. She leaves behind her husband Scott and two beautiful daughters, Sophie (age 5) and Olivia (age 2). Read more.

In Memory - 2000
Health Sciences
Mary Armstrong, Dip’63,

passed away on July 4, 2022 at the age of 89 after a 37-year nursing career in Ottawa, ON. Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Robert Mackenzie, BA’71, MBA’73,

passed away on October 16, 2022. Rob was Western’s University Student Council president from 1971 to 1973. Upon graduation, Rob joined the diplomatic service, representing Canada over a 37-year career.

In Memory - 1970
Ivey Business School
Aleksandra Sasha Maric, BA’12,

passed away on September 22, 2021. Read more.

In Memory - 2010
Social Science
Jacques Belec, HBA'54,

passed away on October 14, 2022 in St-Lazare, Quebec. He enjoyed a 38-year career with The London Life Insurance Company. He played with the Montreal Alouettes football club in 1954/55/56 and the Western Mustangs football and hockey teams.

In Memory - 1950
Ivey Business School
Mary Ann Ruypers, BA'74, BEd'76,

passed away on July 20, 2022, after a long teaching career in Petrolia, Ontario. Read more.

In Memory - 1970
Arts & Humanities
Virginia Armstrong, BA'52, BA'53,

passed away after a short illness in August 26, 2022. Virginia enjoyed a fulfilling teaching career and travelled the world after retiring.

Read more.

In Memory - 1950
Arts & Humanities
Neville Edwards, BA'80, BEd'81,

passed away October 4, 2022. Neville was an educator, athlete, coach and actor who inspired many people. Read more.

In Memory - 1980
Social Science
Joan Evelyn Ban (nee Valley), BA'55,

passed away peacefully on August 26, 2022 in her 88th year.

In Memory - 1950
Arts & Humanities
William Cockrell, BA'17,

passed away unexpectedly on August 10, 2022. Will's close friends from King's University College are establishing a memorial lecture in his honour.

In Memory
King's University College
Adele O’Connell, BA’55,

passed away in March 2021.

In Memory - 1950
David Langhorne, BA’58,

passed away in March 2022. David had a life-long passion for athletics, from his days on the Mustangs football team and as a dedicated and well-respected teacher, coach and basketball referee. Read more.

In Memory - 1950
Arts & Humanities
Brian Sinclair, LLB’63,

passed away in May 2021 after a successful 55-year law career.

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Law
Richard Raibmon, BA’60, LLB’63,

passed away in May 2022 after retiring from a successful law career in 2019.

Read more.

In Memory - 1960
Arts & Humanities
Peter Craig Campbell , BA’60, LLB’63,

passed away on November 18th, 2021. He was a cartoonist for the Western Gazette in the ‘80s, a commissioned artist, property manager and bird of prey handler during his diversified career path.

Read more.

In Memory
Dany Horovitz, JD'10, MBA'10 ,

released his latest album of original folk-rock music, Free Times.

Listen here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Law
Carla Robinson, MA’96,

was selected as this year’s emerging laureate by the Ontario Arts Council Indigenous Arts Award in 2022.

Literature - 1990
Social Science
Sam Boer, BA’17,

and Jake Schindler, BMus’18, BSc’19, co-wrote and performed in a folk musical “Ursa” during the Watershed Festival in 2022.

Personal Achievements - 2010
King's University College
Julie Stewart, BA’89,

will retire in 2023 after more than 32 years at London Life/Canada Life.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Arts & Humanities
Alwynne Beaudoin, MSc’78, PhD’84,

won the 2022 Lieutenant Governor's Award by the Alberta Museums Association, in recognition of her research and excellence in the museum community.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Social Science
Trina Innes, BSc’89,

was recognized in 2022 as one of 100 women and gender-diverse people who are leading the way to a clean energy future in Canada through the Women in Energy Transformation Series.

Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Science
Lisa McLarty, BA'09,

welcomed a baby girl in May 2021.

Mini Mustangs - 2000
King's University College
Henry Standage, MMJC'22,

became the youngest national showrunner at Sportsnet for the audio series 'Painting the Pitch Red'. The series looks at the rise, fall and eventual triumph of the Canadian men’s soccer team.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Information & Media Studies
Mickey Kasemphaibulsuk, BESc'09,

and family welcomed baby Kylian in 2022.

Mini Mustangs - 2000
Engineering
Andrew Nutbrown, BA’14, JD’17,

moved to Pasadena, California with his wife, Nivin Nystrom, PHD'20, and joined KJMLAW Partners PLC. Nivin joined Caltech as a post-doctoral fellow.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Huron University College
Austin Spademan, HBA'14,

has become a TikTok creator reporting on Chicago architecture and culture with a sprinkle of humour.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Ivey Business School
Ann Baiden, BA’91,

won a leader award during Women Business Enterprises Canada’s 2022 Excellence Awards. These awards celebrate the accomplishments of distinguished women entrepreneurs.

Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Pratyaksh Mittal, MSc'22,

began working for Rocket Companies as their associate product owner.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Ivey Business School
Ben Cecil, BA'90, MA'95, PhD'99,

has been appointed as the 14th president at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, effective January 2023.

Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Alyssa Nicholls, BFA'11, BEd'12, MEd'13, BA'17,

became engaged to Grant Dawson at Schloss Kronberg in Frankfurt, Germany.

Western Weddings - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Judy Brown, BA'71, MLS'72,

was elected Mayor of the Town of Perth and celebrated 30 years in municipal politics in 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Paul McEwan, BEd'97,

published Cinema's Original Sin: D.W. Griffith, American Racism, and the Rise of Film Culture. The book details the history of Griffith's racist epic The Birth of a Nation from 1915 to the Trump era.

Read more here.

Literature - 1990
Education
Rebecca Brown, BSW’86,

published Shelter from our Secrets, Silence & Shame; How Our Stories Can Keep Us Stuck or Set Us Free.

Read more here.

Literature - 1980
King's University College
Elise Weagant, BA’72,

and Laird Weagant, BA'73, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in September 2022.

Celebrations - 1970
Social Science
Gregory Katchin, MBA'72,

A group of MBA'72 alumni came together in summer 2022 for a 50th reunion celebration. [L to R] Hugh Willis, David Mitten, Gregory Katchin, Mac Benoy and James Hodgins.

Celebrations - 1970
Ivey Business School
Stacey Hauser, BA’94,

celebrated her 50th birthday in June 2022.

Celebrations - 1990
Social Science
Barbara Macaulay, BA'75, BEd'76,

published a biography This is War and I Ain't Kiddin': A Collection of World War II Letters From Dad, honouring her father and everyone affected by the war.

Literature - 1970
King's University College
Jessica Metcalfe, BSc'10,

published her first book Speak Kindly, You're Listening, teaching high achievers to navigate their inner voice.

Literature - 2010
Social Science
Emily Bruce, BA’12,

and Lauren Waite (Costella), BSc’12, wrote a book called Back In My Day: Evelyn’s 1920s to educate children about the bygone era.

Literature - 2010
Social Science
Jacob Van Dyk, MSc'71, DSc'14,

published True Tales of Medical Physics: Insights into a Life Saving Specialty featuring short stories from scientists and medical professionals.

Literature - 1970
Science
Wanda Davis, BEd'02,

released her new children's book, From Head to Heart, a story about bullying and the importance of mental health.

Literature - 2000
Education
Claire McCague, PhD'04,

published The Rosetta Mind, the second novel in her science fiction series.

Literature - 2000
Science
Tristan Squire-Smith, BSc’04, BA’05,

published Wrinkly Ranch, a deep dive into COVID's toll on long-term care facilities.

Read more here.

Literature - 2000
Science
Erica McKeen, BA’17, BA’19, MA’20,

published her debut novel, Tear, a layered, lyrical tale dealing with contemporary feminist issues set in London, Ontario.

Read more here.

Literature - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Colin McNairn, LLB’63,

published his ninth book, a collection of playful verses titled What If Jack Wasn't So Nimble? Mother Goose Characters Reimagined in 2022.

Read more here.

Literature - 1960
Law
Damhnait Monaghan, LLB’92,

won the 2022 Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer's Award for New Girl in Little Cove, published in 2021. 

Literature - 1990
Law
Leslie Ruth Damude, MD’80,

retired as a family physician in 2019 and self-published a novella called Hearts Of Wax in 2022. 

Literature - 1980
Diane Kirby, BA’80,

published her first book, Demystifying Grief: What You Need to Know to Heal, in 2022.

Literature - 1980
Social Science
Rosemary Sloot, BEd’96,

published Immigrant to accompany her paintings featured in the 'Immigrant' exhibition. Read more here.  

Literature - 1990
Education
Laurence Hutchman, BA’72,

published Writers’ Words Volume II, a collection of interviews with 10 Canadian poets.

Literature - 1970
Arts & Humanities
Shefali Panicker, BHSc’22,

first went viral in 2020 for her unique TikTok music mashup featuring her ability to sing in more than nine languages and her online following continues to grow. Read more here.  

Personal Achievements - 2020
Health Sciences
Kevin Jacobs, BA’16,

won Season 10 of Big Brother Canada.

Personal Achievements - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Jerry Battista, MSc’73,

produced a virtual music album The Stochastics & Friends with 13 other amateur international physicist-musicians. Learn more here.  

Personal Achievements - 1970
Science
Jamie Rocco, BEd’11,

and family welcomed baby Hartley Muriella Rocco in June 2022.

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Education
Thalia Standish, BSc’14, PhD 2020,

and Geoff Standish welcomed their first child, Eliana Ava Standish in May 2021.

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Science
Lilian Lin, MSc'17,

married Scott Burton, HBA'13 in March 2022.

Western Weddings - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Lauren Pelley, BA'10, MA'11,

married Adam Miller in June 2022 near Elora, Ontario.

Western Weddings - 2010
Information & Media Studies
Wendy Lopez-Pollard, BSc’00,

married the love of her life in August 2022.

Western Weddings - 2000
Science
Jessica Wan, BMus’11,

and Thomas Wong had a private wedding in August 2021 and renewed their vows with family and friends in August 2022. 

Western Weddings - 2010
Don Wright Faculty of Music
Jennifer Street, BSc'18,

and Kyle Tan, BSc'18, met at Western and were married in June 2022. 

Western Weddings - 2010
Science
Sara Van Vaals, BA'15,

married Michael Van Vaals, in April 2022.

Western Weddings - 2010
Arts & Humanities
Bhupinder Dulku, BA'14,

married Harjot Bhandal, BMOS'16, in May 2022 in Hamilton, On. 

Western Weddings - 2010
Social Science
Rick Woodgate, MBA’71,

CEO of Allanson International Inc., was awarded the 2022 “Sign Professional of the Year” by the Canadian Sign Association, recognizing his 30 years of leadership and contributions.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Ivey Business School
Ishita Aggarwal, MPH’19,

Deryn Rizzi, GDipPA'18, Jody Becker, BA’96, LLB’99, Karen Chan, EMBA’10, Rebecca Kacaba, BA’03, Priscilla Luna, EMBA’19, Erica Nielsen, MBA’02, Karen Peesker, HBA’92, MBA’97, Eva Salem, HBA’93, Oricia Smith, HBA’95, MBA ‘98, Nitsa Staikos, BA’97, and Nurin Thawer, HBA’05, were selected by the Women’s Executive Network (WXN) as some of the 2022 Canada’s Most Powerful Women. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Nicole Baranowski, BA’19, MScM’21,

Anthony Giugno, BSc’19, Paige Martin, BA’18, MMJC’19, Ian Rake, BMOS’16, and Justin Tiseo, BA’16 were recognized as trailblazers in the 2022 Business London's Twenty in the 20s. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Health Sciences
Christos Nikitopoulos, BA'92,

leads Canada's Agency team at Google. 

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Belle Puri, MA'84,

won the Canadian Screen Awards 'Best Local Reporter 2022'. 

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Information & Media Studies
Mary Anne White, BSc'75, DSc'11,

and John Noel, were granted a US patent for "Phase-change Material and Method for Producing Same".

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Science
Hugh Armitage, BESc'82, MESc'85,

retired as supervisor from the Hydro Services group at Southern Company-Georgia Power in Atlanta, Georgia in March 2021. 

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Engineering
Surranna Sandy, GDip'21,

was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Toronto Arts Foundation in September 2022. 

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Arts & Humanities
Vincent Panepinto, BA'09,

began the startup Spently (now UpOrder) that has been acquired by Pantastic. Vincent has joined the Pantastic team as Director of Corporate Development.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
King's University College
Germaine Joseph-Hays, BSc'05, MSc'07,

was promoted to Assistant Principal at Corvallis High School in Corvallis, OR,USA and was selected as scholar in the prestigious Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms program. 

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Science
Michael Menard, BSc'84,

is the Adjunct Professor at Nazareth College School Of Business Rochester, NY and new Board Member with Volunteers Of America Upstate NY.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Science
Dr. Gillian Mandich, BHSc'07, MSc'12, PhD'19,

joined the National Board of Directors for The Sunshine Foundation of Canada. 

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Health Sciences
Nicholas Hunt-Bull, BA'89, MA'90,

was appointed as the 13th President of Paul Smith's College, in northern New York State.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Arts & Humanities
Quinn Ross, JD'04,

was acknowledged by Canadian Lawyer Magazine as one of the 2022 Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in Canada in the Changemaker Category. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Law
Beverly Behan, HBA'81, LLB'84,

was selected by The Women Leaders magazine as one of 20 Most Inspiring Women Leaders of 2022.  

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Law
Omar Ha-Redeye, JD'10,

joined the Department of Justice Canada as counsel.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Law
Melanie Levenberg, BA'04, BEd'05,

was selected by canfitpro as Canada’s Top Fitness Professional for 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Health Sciences
Clare Dear, HBA'75,

was inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame as a journalist for his decades of covering motorsports in North America and Europe.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Ivey Business School
Stacey Ann Allaster, LLD’14, MBA’00, BA’85,

James Lloyd Cassels, LLB’80; Dr. William Foster Clark, MD’70; Dr. Zane Cohen, BA’65; and Guy Jacques Pratte, BA’78 all joined the prestigious Order of Canada roster in 2022. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Law
Tim Progosh, BA’80,

actor-producer is the acting Executive Director and Board Member of the new Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Social Science
Ron Scanlan, BA’75

launched Fonds pour la démocratie Matthew R. Scanlan Democracy Fund Inc., a private foundation based in Ottawa that donates grants to charities.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Social Science
Kevin Wamsley, BA’85, MA’87,

was installed as Nipissing University’s President in June 2022. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Social Science
Adam Rice, BA’08, GDip’15,

is re-imagining lending in India through his company Asset Direct of Canada Inc. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Huron University College
Darren Hamilton, MMus’16,

won the prestigious MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award in 2022. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Don Wright Faculty of Music
James McInnes, BSc’02,

and Vasiliki McInnes, MScN’15, opened a vegan food manufacturing facility in London, Ontario. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Science
Josh Barr, MBA’17,

and Amar Gupta, MBA’17, founded the functional coffee company brüst in 2018 and have recently partnered with Denis Shapovalov. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Ivey Business School
Gregory Leeson, BA’80,

retired from a project management career and is now traveling the continent with the goal of visiting 52 cities, 39 states, and 8 provinces.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Social Science
Andrea Feldman-Kohlver, BA'13,

started a new position as the retail operations manager of Cannabis Xpress in July 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Ruosong Gao, MSc’22,

began a new job at PricewaterhouseCoopers in September 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Ivey Business School
Danny Chang, BSC’20,

and Jason Grier launched a startup called Delphic Research to help support government affairs professionals.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Science
Tina Bax, BA’93, BEd’95,

was inducted into the Junior Achievement London and District Business Hall of Fame in 2022. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Arts & Humanities
Richard Tyler, BSc’74, MSc’75,

participated in the 29th Annual International Conference on Tinnitus.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Robin Harvey, BA’97,

celebrated working at the London Free Press for 25 years.

Professional Accomplishments - 1990
Social Science
Emily Passfield, BA’22,

began a new job as the research project director for Young London, that seeks to empower a generation of leaders through community engagement.

Professional Accomplishments - 2020
Social Science
Rustam Juma, LLB’07,

won the 2022 Canadian General Counsel Award. Read more here.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Law
David Mewa, BA’02,

began showrunning after more than a decade of directing. David’s recent project, MTV's unscripted TV series 'Hip Hop My House' is available worldwide on MTV International and Paramount+ (streaming).

Professional Accomplishments
King's University College
Lorin MacDonald, JD’09,

is a 2022 inductee to the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame which celebrates those who have made extraordinary contributions to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Law
Sarah Van de Vooren, BSc’10,

celebrated five years travelling as a digital nomad, working with Waste Solutions Canada as a sustainability data analyst.

Professional Accomplishments - 2010
Science
Lee Manchur, BSc’07,

was promoted to Chief Information Officer at Ontario College Application Service in May 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Science
Dennis McKaig, BSc’88,

has recently accepted a faculty teaching position at Fanshawe College where he will teach Law to business and accounting students.

Professional Accomplishments - 1980
Science
Amelia Daurio, BA’01,

was appointed as a judge of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, Family Branch in May 2022.

Professional Accomplishments - 2000
Arts & Humanities
Rosa Devés Alessandri, PhD’78,

has been elected as the rector of the University of Chile.

Professional Accomplishments - 1970
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Joel Sherlock , MLIS'13, MA'14

Joel, his wife Kim, and their son Samuel welcomed baby Isla Jade to their family in May 2022.

Mini Mustangs - 2010
Information & Media Studies