The following statement was issued by York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton:
It was with great sadness that the York community learned of the death of Sandra Faire, writer, television producer, business leader, philanthropist, mentor and great friend of the University.
Serving as a producer for CTV, CBC, and ultimately for her own firm, Sandra Faire and Associates, she produced numerous television programs including W5, Comedy Now!, So You Think You Can Dance Canada, and a variety of specials for Canadian luminaries like k.d. lang and Bryan Adams.
Sandra and her husband, Ivan Fecan, were notable supporters of the arts in Canada, including the Art Gallery of Ontario and Soulpepper Theatre. Since 2004, she served on the Board of the National Ballet of Canada and provided financial support to many aspiring dancers. In 2012, she was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of her generous support of culture and the arts.
Sandra was also an outstanding supporter of York University and she received an honorary doctorate from the University in 2008. In honour of Sandra and Ivan’s generous financial support, York’s 350-seat performance space in Accolade East was named the Sandra Faire and Ivan Fecan Theatre in 2006.
Sandra’s passing is a loss to York and Canada’s arts and culture community. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and those who benefitted from her leadership and generosity.