Closing a Chapter, Leaving a Legacy: Celebrating the CSAHS Alumni Association
The College of Social and Applied Human Sciences (CSAHS) Alumni Association has a long-standing tradition of giving back, making a lasting impact on students through generous support and active engagement. Their stewardship goes beyond financial contributions—it’s about mentoring, inspiring, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
A recent decision will formally close the association, its legacy lives on through the students it has supported. In this article, we highlight seven students whose experiences demonstrate the profound impact of the Alumni Association’s contributions. Through awards, mentorship, and ongoing guidance, their legacy is measured not just in donations but in the lasting difference they’ve made in the lives of CSAHS students.
Celebrating the Lasting Legacy of the CSAHS Alumni Association
Anne E. Barber Memorial – Lily Briand
Child Studies, Family Relations & Applied Nutrition, B.A.Sc. ‘25
"Every day I think about the impact that the University of Guelph has had on my life. Guelph taught me to be an independent and driven individual, and to live each day with the collective goal of "Improving Life". It was a true honour to be chosen as a recipient of the Anne E. Barber Scholarship for the Fall '24 Term, as it empowered me to take charge of my life and make the world a better place. Currently, I am supporting adults who have developmental disabilities and working at a dental office, striving to make dental care simpler for young children. Without the financial aid provided by this scholarship, I would not have been able to engage in as many extracurricular experiences in my undergraduate degree and receive the grades that I aspired to get. Thank you again for your kind donations! Please know that the support they provide to students has a lifelong impact.”
CSAHS Alumni Association CJPP Scholarship – Roman Cyfko
Criminal Justice and Public Policy, Department of Sociology and Anthropology and the Department of Political Science, BA '25
“During my fourth year at the University of Guelph, receiving the CSAHS Alumni Association CJPP Scholarship was an incredible honour that reinforced my passion for justice, equity, and community engagement. The support motivated me to continue pursuing meaningful work both inside and outside the classroom, and it played a key role in helping me take the next step toward my education at the University of Ottawa's Common Law program. I’m sincerely grateful to the alumni whose generosity made this recognition possible!”
Jean C Bradley Prize – Megan Rohde
Applied Human Nutrition, Family Relations & Applied Nutrition, B.A.Sc. ‘25
“I was the recipient of the Jean C Bradley Memorial Prize for the Summer 2025 term. I graduated from the Applied Human Nutrition program in April of 2025 and am now pursuing a Master of Applied Nutrition program at the University of Guelph, on the path to becoming a Registered Dietitian. Studying nutrition at U of G has been an incredibly rewarding experience, largely due to the supportive environment and strong sense of community. I am truly grateful to the members of the CSAHS Alumni Association, whose generosity has made a meaningful impact on my education through this scholarship. Thank you so much for your support!”
Katherine Fuller Scholarship – Olivia Virgo
Fourth-Year Student: Family Studies and Human Development, Minor in Psychology, Family Relations & Applied Nutrition
“What I love most about my studies at the University of Guelph is how they combine theory with real-world impact—allowing me to explore the complexities of human development while applying that knowledge to foster growth, resilience, and connection within my community. The program’s interdisciplinary approach has deepened my understanding of how people learn, adapt, and thrive across the lifespan, while also inspiring me to create meaningful change through advocacy and mentorship. Thank you so much to the CSAHS Alumni Association for this generous scholarship and for recognizing students’ efforts beyond the classroom. Your support motivates me to continue giving back and to pursue meaningful work that uplifts others and strengthens our community.”
Margaret S. McCready Scholarship – Ella Holt
Neuroscience & Child Studies, B.A.Sc. ‘25
“I am now in my first year of the Master of Science program in Family Relations and Human Development. Having completed my Bachelor of Arts and Sciences with specializations in Neuroscience and Family & Child Studies, I’m incredibly excited to continue building on the strong foundation of knowledge and community I found at the University of Guelph. My research interests center on addressing gaps in our understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder, inclusive practices, and play-based learning. The generous support of the CSAHS Alumni Association has been instrumental in helping me take this next step in my academic journey. Thank you again for your recognition and encouragement.”
Mac-FACS-FRAN AA Scholarship – Sarah Cook-Cumming
Third-Year Student: Child Studies, Family Relations & Applied Nutrition
“Thank you to all alumni who continue to make contributions to the U of G community. Your generosity allows students like me to continue to pursue our academic goals on the route to our dream careers. As a third-year Child Studies student, this scholarship gives me the freedom to seek out more practical opportunities to supplement my coursework and learn how to put theory into practice”.
Janet Wardlaw Scholarship – Anonymous
First Year Student: Applied Human Nutrition, Family Relations & Applied Nutrition
“I am currently a first-year student, enrolled in the Applied Human Nutrition program. Nutrition has always been of great interest of mine, and I have found that I like to teach others. That is why I decided to pursue becoming a dietitian, and being part of this program is integral to this goal. Although my journey at the University of Guelph is just beginning, I have already found things here to love. For example, I enjoy learning about things I find personally interesting in my classes and engaging with others through all the clubs and activities. I am looking forward to becoming more involved in my future and continuing to increase my knowledge. Thank you so much for making this all possible by supporting my passion! I will make sure to make it count by working harder and making sure to help as many people as I can.”