Long-serving faculty member creates bursary award for Markham students

Markham Centre Campus FEATURED image

A new bursary award for York University’s Markham Campus students will honour the contributions and legacy of Professor Alice Pitt who currently serves as senior advisor, Markham Academic Strategic Planning.

Alice Pitt
Alice Pitt

Pitt has been a faculty member at York since 1995, serving the University in leadership roles such as vice-provost academic (2012-20), Faculty of Education dean (2008-12), and Faculty of Education associate dean (2002-07).

The award will honour her contributions to York University while expanding financial support for students.

The $25,000 donation from Pitt will create an endowed bursary to benefit continuing undergraduate students entering their final year in a Markham Campus program and experiencing financial hardship. Each year, one recipient will receive approximately $1,000 from the Alice Pitt Bursary. The award will be available through Student Financial Services once the campus opens in Spring 2024.

Pitt credits the inspiration and wisdom of colleagues and students for her successful career at York.

“Working with colleagues from every corner of the university and in conversation with the Markham and York Region communities has been such fun and gave my creativity and curious mind lots of stimulation,” says Pitt. “From designing welcoming spaces to facilitating conversations across programs about student learning and experience, I have learned so much.”

She hopes her donation will inspire others to contribute in ways that increase access to post-secondary education for future generations. In addition to her current gift, Pitt has also made arrangements in her will for a future gift to continue support for students in financial need at York’s Markham and Keele campuses.

“York University is proud of the diversity of its student body and is always looking for ways to provide what students need to flourish, to articulate their goals, and to achieve them,” says Pitt. “It is important to me that students who attend York at the Markham Campus have access to supports designed with them in mind and from the time the doors open.”

Increased access to high-quality university education in general and increased access for those who might not seek out university study stand to strengthen communities and improve opportunities, she says.

“We are very grateful for Alice’s continued support for Markham Campus,” said Gordon Binsted, deputy provost, Markham. “She has been instrumental in getting the campus off the ground and her contributions exemplify the community spirit that we hope to foster at the campus.”

Markham Campus will embed York University in the heart of one of the most diverse and dynamic urban communities in the province and country. The impressive facility will feature 10 floors of teaching and learning spaces and plenty of common areas to meet, study and collaborate.

Passings: William Dimma

A field of flowers at sunset

A long-standing advocate and changemaker at York University, Professor Emeritus William (Bill) Dimma, died quietly in his sleep on Thursday, Dec. 22 in Toronto. Dimma served the University for several decades as a professor, dean, member and Chair of the Board of Governors.

William (Bill) Dimma
William (Bill) Dimma

Born on Aug. 13, 1928, in Montreal, Que., Dimma received a bachelor of applied science degree from the University of Toronto in 1948, a master of business administration degree from York University in 1969 and a doctor of business administration from Harvard University in 1973.

From 1974-76, he was a professor and dean of the (former) Faculty of Administrative Studies at York University.

Described as “one of York’s greatest enthusiasts,” Dimma was awarded a doctor of laws (honoris causa) in 1998 by York in recognition of his multifaceted association with the University as a student, faculty member, dean and his role in governance. Dimma was a member of the Board of Governors of York University from 1976 to 1997 and was the Board of Governors Chair from 1992-97. During this time, he devoted, on average, a full 20 per cent of his long work week to the betterment of York University. In this period, he also served the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children for 15 years, somehow finding time to Chair the investment committee and to sit on many other task forces and committees.

He was also a driving force and a key donor in the creation of the Jarislowsky-Dimma-Mooney Chair in Corporate Governance, established jointly at the Schulich School of Business and Osgoode Hall Law School in 2006.

From 1987 and into the early 1990s, Dimma spoke and wrote extensively on business ethics and became a highly respected leader within the corporate community for his advocacy of a greater sense of ethical awareness and of higher ethical standards. He is the author of Excellence in the Boardroom: Best Practices in Corporate Directorship. For his work in this field, St. Mary’s University awarded him an honorary degree in 1992. He is remembered as a keeper of corporate consciences, a reputation for excellence that earned him a place on 90 corporate boards, invitations to speak in many academic and business fora, and a well-deserved role in public and community affairs.

Dimma was awarded the Gold Medal in the Doctoral Program, Graduate School of Business, Harvard University. His other awards include the York University Business School Alumni Award for Outstanding Corporate Leadership, 1992, and the Order of Canada, 1996. In 1999, he was made a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Directors. In 2000, he was made a member of the Order of Ontario.

In addition to his many professional accomplishments, Dimma was a talented swimmer and cross-country skier. He played water polo and squash while he was a student at the University of Toronto, and he garnered multiple master points in Bridge. He also loved travelling with his wife, and with his family.

He was married for 61 years, and he leaves his wife Louise (Ash), daughters Katherine and Suzanne, and son-in-law, Arriz Hassam.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment will take place in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in the spring. Donations in Dimma’s memory can be made to York University here. Visit Schulich’s memorial tribute page here.

How to make or process year-end donations in time for a 2022 tax receipt

Vari Hall at night

The year is quickly coming to a close, and hundreds of faculty, staff and retirees have already made their 2022 donation to York University. Thank you to those of you who have chosen to create positive change at York this year.

For faculty and staff receiving donations, please forward any gifts received in your departments to Advancement Services (located at the West Office Building on York’s Keele Campus) by noon on Thursday, Dec. 22 to ensure timely processing and receipting. If you are expecting a credit card donation over the closure period, please direct the donor to the online donation page.

To receive a receipt for 2022, all cheques must be accompanied with the original envelope postmarked on or before Dec. 31.

Advancement staff are preparing for a well-deserved break over the holidays. Our office will be closed from Friday, Dec. 23 to Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. While our office is closed, donations can be made in two ways:

1. By visiting our online donation page;

2. By telephone at 416-650-8210.

To ensure you receive a 2022 tax receipt for your donation, take note of the following requirements:

  • Donations must be received on or before Dec. 31, 2022, with the cheque or credit card authorization dated Dec. 31 or earlier. This includes donations made online and by telephone.
  • Mailed donations can be received in January 2023 but must have a valid postmark of Dec. 31, or earlier.
  • Cheques must be made payable to York University.

Together, we are a community of changemakers who have adapted, innovated and persevered through the many challenges of the past few years. Our faculty, staff and students continue to pursue academic, research and professional excellence while always looking out for one another, our friends and our families.

Thank you to all of you who have helped to create positive change at York University this year. Happy holidays from the Division of Advancement.

The Victor Dahdaleh Foundation to support University facilities, selected programming with $4M gift

Featured image for YFile shows Victor Dahdaleh with the president

The gift will support upgrades to the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Building on York University’s Keele Campus, provide operating funding to CIFAL York and support a new operations facility for the Advanced Disaster, Emergency and Rapid Response Simulation initiative.

York was honoured to welcome alumnus and philanthropist Victor Dahdaleh and his wife Mona to campus to celebrate the Victor Dahdaleh Foundation’s new $4-million gift to the University. 

The gift will support upgrades to the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Building, provide operating funding to CIFAL York, which is Canada’s first United Nations Centre to address the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), and support the Advanced Disaster, Emergency and Rapid Response Simulation (ADERSIM) initiative with a new operations facility.

“Through the Victor Dahdaleh Foundation, Victor and Mona’s commitment to York is matched only by their interest in driving positive change particularly supporting global health and education initiatives,” said York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton. The foundation’s generous investment will allow York to expand capacity for research and training in areas of particular importance to the world, through health and disaster and risk management, but also to further York’s commitment to actioning the UN SDGs.” 

 From left, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, Victor Dahdaleh, Mona Dahdaleh and York Vice-President Advancement Susana Gajic-Bruyea
Above: From left, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, Victor Dahdaleh, Mona Dahdaleh and York Vice-President Advancement Susana Gajic-Bruyea

CIFAL York brings together experts, policy-makers and practitioners from around the world to work on problems in the areas of sustainable development, disaster and emergency management, diversity and inclusion, economic development, global health, and entrepreneurship collaborating on programs, training and research. The Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Advanced Disaster and Health Emergency Operations Facility will provide students with hands-on research and training experience in evaluating and enhancing disaster and emergency planning and rapid emergency response strategies in Ontario, across Canada and around the world.

“The Victor Dahdaleh Foundation has an extensive history of supporting education and health care research in Canada and around the world – giving back to those in need through our support but more importantly making a real difference,” said Victor Dahdaleh. “York’s leadership in health research and training and its unique interdisciplinary approach continues to be inspiring. James Orbinski, professor and director of the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, and his talented team of researchers are driving important advances that will have a positive impact for Canada and Canadians, but also to communities in need around the world as we continue to navigate future challenges in health and other global crises that require creative solutions.”

The donation from The Victor Dahdaleh Foundation brings its total support to York to $24.25 million. Dahdaleh is the largest alumni donor in the University’s history – with a degree in business administration from York.

The foundation’s original donation of $20 million established the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research and helped to realize a revolutionary approach to global health research. 

Further support of $150,000 assisted York in establishing the COVID-19 Student Emergency Relief Fund, which has helped students navigate the challenges and burdens presented by the pandemic.

Janes Family Foundation announces $500,000 in new funding for Black students

Black youth Osgoode lounge

The Janes Family Foundation is providing $500,000 in new funding to York University to support the Tom Janes Award for Black Scholars.

This generous award for incoming Black students in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies offers $5,000 per student and is renewable for up to four years. The renewed funding will cover the fourth year of study for students who joined the program in 2021-2022 and will grant $5,000 per year to 23 new students for up to four years.

The positive impact of this additional funding will encourage more students to enroll and continue their educational pursuits while relieving financial pressure.

Lem and Karen Janes created this important award in memory of Tom Janes, Lem’s late brother, business partner and best friend.

“My brother Tom made it a priority to take time and help out folks who needed a boost to succeed,” said Lem Janes. “The Tom Janes Scholarships allow us to continue in that same spirit by partnering with York and supporting these students.”

Michele Johnson, associate dean students said: “We would like to offer our sincere thanks to the Janes Family for their incredible generosity in creating and supporting this award for Black students in LA&PS. This award – which is available to students over multiple years – will assist our students on their academic journeys and help them to realize success in their chosen fields.”

The Tom Janes Award for Black Scholars was one of six new donor-funded awards for Black students announced by LA&PS’ Advancement team in 2021. More information about the student application processes for these awards will be posted on the LA&PS Awards Search website.

New gift from alumnus Earle Nestmann supports undergraduate research in science

Life sciences lab showing students working on projects featured image for January Innovatus

Undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science will have more opportunities to participate in paid summer research positions thanks to a generous gift by alumnus Earle Nestmann.

Nestmann’s gift of $200,000, matched by the Faculty of Science for a total of $400,000, will create the Earle Nestmann Undergraduate Research Award (ENURA) program to support paid 16-week positions for students to work in York research labs over the summer term. Starting in 2023, ENURAs will support six students every summer, until the funds are fully expended.

Earl Nestmann
Earle Nestmann

“We are incredibly grateful to Earle for his gift, an impactful investment in the future of our students,” said Rui Wang, dean of the Faculty of Science. “Providing more opportunities for our students to do hands-on research is critical because it gives them exposure to what research really involves, allows them to learn new skills and helps them make more informed choices about their career paths. Earle’s gift will change the lives of dozens of students.”

Together with his wife Berna, Nestmann has supported York science students and faculty for more than 15 years, including the Dean’s Undergraduate Research Awards and Science Exploration Camps for elementary and secondary students. The Earle Nestmann Scholarship was established in 2008 for master’s or doctoral students studying molecular biology or genetics. In 2021, Nestmann received a York University Alumni Award for his significant contribution to the advancement of York and its students through exceptional service, commitment and philanthropic contributions.

Nestmann has both a MSc and PhD in biology from York University. After his studies at York, he served in the Biology Department as assistant professor from 1974-77, and later as a member of the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association from 2006-14 and the Board of Governors from 2013-21.

He has published more than 100 articles in the scientific literature and was co-editor of the proceedings of an international conference on chemical mutagenesis and of a laboratory manual on recombinant DNA technology. He has served on several editorial boards for scientific journals and was president of the Genetics Society of Canada. He was a research scientist at Health Canada and pesticide regulatory manager for a multi-national company before becoming a principal of an international consulting firm. Nestmann continues to consult part-time as president of Health Science Consultants Inc., serving on international expert panels as well as writing reports, scientific opinions, and manuscripts for publication.

Libraries event celebrates ‘precious moments’ of Vivienne and Neville Poy

An image of the Scott Library on the Keele Campus

On Oct. 17, Vivienne and Neville Poy will have dialogue with Jack Leong, associate dean of Libraries, to share the remarkable life stories that lead to their collaboration of the Precious Moments book project.

York University Libraries invite members of the University community to the event.

From their childhood memory of Hong Kong and Southern China, the stroke of luck that brought them to Canada, the remarkable services and achievements in their professions and community services, to their enthusiastic pursuit of gardening and photography, Vivienne and Neville Poy share with Leong the events that lead to their collaboration of the Precious Moments book project.

The Precious Moments of Vivienne and Neville Poy will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on the second floor of Scott Library and will feature remarks from Joy Kirchner, dean of Libraries, and other University leaders.

The event will include a Q-and-A discussion, a book donation ceremony and reception. Proceeds from book sales at the event will support the development of distinctive collections at York University Libraries. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by Oct. 10.

“Vivienne and Neville Poy have a special relationship with the Libraries,” said Leong. “I am excited for members of the York community to join us and learn about their remarkable lives.”

Precious Moments is an art-quality coffee table book made of the finest quality materials showcasing the photography of fine art photographer Neville Poy and accompanied by the observations of nature and tranquility, including gardening techniques of Vivienne Poy.

Vivienne Poy is an author, entrepreneur, historian, fashion designer, board member of for-profit and non-profit institutions, and community activist. In 1998, she was the first Canadian of Asian heritage to be appointed to the Senate of Canada where she focused on gender issues, multiculturalism, immigration and human rights. She was instrumental in having the month of May recognized as Asian Heritage Month across Canada. She is Chancellor Emerita of the University of Toronto and the author/co-editor of numerous publications. Since her retirement from the Senate in September 2012, she remains an active participant in communities across Canada. 

Dr. Neville Poy received his medical degree from McGill University in 1960. He completed his training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the same university and practised his specialty in Toronto until his retirement in 1995. He played leadership roles in both medical and non-medical communities, receiving recognition for his contributions to medical education, the visual and the performing arts, the military, philanthropy and voluntarism.

This event is hosted by York University Libraries, with support from York’s Division of Advancement, and co-sponsored by York’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies and the York Centre for Asian Research.

Retirees to walk for graduate student awards

Image shows people wearing running shoes

For the fourth straight year, the York University Retirees’ Association (YURA) will participate in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon Charity Challenge this fall to raise funds for graduate student awards at the University. Tata Consultancy Services is the new lead sponsor for the 2022 event, taking over from Scotiabank.  

YURA members at the 2020 walk in Toronto's High Park
YURA members at the 2020 walk in Toronto’s High Park
Members of the 2019 YURA team at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, raising money for York Graduate Student Awards
Members of the 2019 YURA team at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, raising money for York Graduate Student Awards

A number of YURA members will take part in the 5 km walk in October and are seeking sponsor donations from former colleagues, co-workers, family and friends to help achieve the $115,000 needed to endow the three awards that YURA provides each year to deserving graduate students.  To date, more than $90,000 has been raised with $60,000 of the funds being generated by participants in the Charity Challenge walk/run in the last three years.

York community members are invited support this worthy cause by sponsoring the YURA team or any of its members with an online donation at https://tinyurl.com/msv7v69c.

Tax deductible receipts will be issued by the University for sponsor donations.

YURA is committed to help make getting an education possible for deserving students who struggle financially.  Many of the award recipients are changemakers who go on to accomplish great things.  For more information about the YURA sponsored awards given annually, visit: https://www.yorku.ca/yura/events-and-programs/awards-bursaries-and-donations/.

York University launches prestigious Paulina Lau Scholars Program

FEATURED Global Health

A transformative gift from an alumni family will allow York University to enhance its financial support for students seeking global learning opportunities.

York alumni and life partners Paulina Lau (left) and Hian Siang Chan
York alumni and life partners Paulina Lau (left) and Hian Siang Chan

York University is launching a new scholarship program, which has been made possible thanks to a generous gift from an alumni family. The program will allow students to participate in diverse global learning opportunities, such as internships, academic exchanges, faculty-led programs, research abroad and seminars/conferences.

York University alumni and life partners Hian Siang Chan and Paulina Lau, and their families, have created the Paulina Lau Scholars Program in honour of their strong personal and familial ties to the University. Chan, who is the CEO and the executive director of Singapore-based SP Chemicals Pte. Ltd., said their family is committed to creating positive global change and through this gift, they are hoping to encourage and support a similar ethos among York students to right the future.

“Through our experience, we think this scholars program will provide students with an invaluable opportunity to study or work in a different country and environment. Experiencing the history and culture of another country and making new friends enrich their personal development,” says Chan.

Adds Lau, “International study or work abroad programs are also effective in challenging students to develop a global perspective. We are delighted to support students at York University, our alma mater, as they embark on enriching experiences.”

York University students in the Lassonde School of Engineering, the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies can apply to the program, which will begin in the Fall 2022 term. Criteria for selection include financial need, equity, diversity and inclusion, academic and professional merit, intercultural learning and societal impact.

“At York, we are committed to building a better future for all, and our active network of alumni plays a positive role in supporting and advancing that vision,” says Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor. 

“We are grateful to Hian Siang Chan and Paulina Lau for their generous investment, which will increase the accessibility of global learning opportunities for our students and enhance their knowledge and skills to solve challenges such as inequality, war and conflict, and the climate crisis. We are incredibly proud of these successful alums and their commitment to giving back to the University through this transformative support for students,” adds Lenton.

Vinitha Gengatharan, York’s assistant vice-president, global engagement and partnerships, says the Paulina Lau Scholars Program will provide opportunities for talented students who wouldn’t otherwise consider going abroad.

“Gifts like these open doors for promising students who might not have the financial means to travel without aid. This gift allows them to dream big and take on bold opportunities,” Gengatharan adds. “We are thrilled and inspired that Mr. Chan and Ms. Lau recognize the value of such formative opportunities for our students.”

Learn more about the Paulina Lau Scholars Program and find out how you can assist our students in achieving their goals in a global society.  

Fall term kicks off with an ice cream social

Ice Cream Social Featured image for YFile

More than 200 University staff and faculty gathered in the Harry W. Arthurs Common at the Keele Campus on Aug. 23 for the Celebrating YU: Fall Term Kick-off Ice Cream Social.

The Celebrating YU social presented an informal, fun opportunity for President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, senior leadership, faculty and staff to mix and mingle with each other while enjoying frozen treats, games and prizes. The stormy skies that marked the days leading up to the ice cream social cleared, and the sun shone, affording many Keele Campus community members the chance to gather in person, which for some was the first opportunity to see their colleagues since the start of the pandemic.

Glendon community members enjoyed Une célébration de York: lancement du trimestre d’automne – événement crème glacée event on Aug. 22. The Glendon social took place in the East Quad on the Glendon Campus.

York University Fall Ice Cream social