2021 Arbor Award Winners Announced
Congratulations to our four newest Arbor Award winners
The Arbor Award is the highest award the University of Toronto bestows on volunteers, recognising extraordinary levels of dedication and impact. Bravo!
Fr. Don McLeod, CSB, (SMC 6T6, USMC 7T7) has served on USMC’s governing body, the Collegium, since 2014. Collegium members work to safeguard the property and funds of the University, ensuring it has the resources to carry out its mission while operating in accordance with best academic practices and the governing law. Fr. McLeod has chaired Collegium’s Governance Review and Appointment Committee, participated in Collegium’s Finance Committee and Investment Committee, and most recently served as Collegium Chair.
Fr. McLeod’s leadership, commitment to mission, consultation, and good governance has benefitted and advanced the
St Michael’s community significantly.
Rita Shaughnessy (SMC 6T7) has been an enthusiastic and dependable volunteer with the Friends of Kelly Library since 2011, when she started sorting books and working at the book sale. In 2015 she was invited to join the Book Sale Committee, and her insight, good sense, and thoughtfulness has enriched the Friends’ plans and activities. Rita’s efforts have helped raise funds that improve student spaces, technology, and collections within the John M. Kelly Library, which is used widely by all U of T students.
Cesare Plastina (SMC 0T9) has volunteered his time and talents as a member of St. Michael’s Young Alumni Committee since 2015, which develops programs and events specifically tailored to young alumni’s needs and interests. Over that time, he has participated in a variety of mentorship programs, social events, and networking opportunities. He has also served as a class representative since his graduation. Cesare’s generous sharing of his energy and knowledge has increased engagement among young alumni and provided students and fellow alumni with valuable perspectives, advice, and encouragement.
Teresa-Anne Martin (SMC 0T5) has been an active volunteer at St. Michael’s since her graduation. She served on the St. Michael’s Young Alumni Committee from 2015-2021, which develops programs and events specifically tailored to young alumni’s needs and interests. She has participated in mentorship activities over the past several years, such as USMC Grad Week, and serves as a class representative, helping increase the engagement of her alumni peers. Her commitment to connecting, engaging, and inspiring young alumni is welcome at St. Michael’s.