Our college produces leaders who take on the critical issues facing our world. These stories showcase alumni that are making a difference in our communities and beyond.
Alum Nicholas Scapillati Builds Connection to Conservation Movement
When Nicholas Scapillati began the Master of Conservation Leadership (MCL), he hoped to elevate his credentials and stay competitive in conservation. However, upon graduation, Nicholas found that he walked away with much more, feeling more connected to his colleagues in the conservation community and gaining a deeper understanding of conservation and its relationship with colonization.
Political Science Alum Geoff Martin Receives 2023 Young Alumni Award
Geoffrey (Geoff) Martin is a passionate advocate and researcher dedicated to helping marginalized and vunlerable workers in Kuwait. Geoff's most notable achievement to date is his founding of the Kuwait Aid Network (KAN), the state of Kuwait's first not-for-profit social enterprise. KAN is an organization aimed at alleviating poverty by empowering and supporting vulnerable communities.
A Loving Tribute Pays it Forward
U of G alumna Margaret Dickenson fondly recalls talking to her future husband Larry for the first time in Creelman Hall. Larry went on to work in Canada's foreign service, taking the couple around the world. Meanwhile, Margaret honed her cooking and hosting skills on the world stage, publishing multiple award-winning cookbooks. Today, sponsoring the Larry and Margaret Dickenson Scholarship in International Development is just one of the ways Margaret maintains her connection to U of G.
People are Good, Change is Possible
Susan McDade's work has changed the world in immeasurable ways. Throughout her nearly 30-year career with the United Nations, McDade helped launch groundbreaking environmental sustainability projects in China, mobilized hurricane relief support in Cuba, supported prison reforms in Uruguay and supervised development projects in Guatemala.
At the helm: U of G grad named Board of Governors chair
Whenever Shauneen Bruder sets foot on the University of Guelph campus, it is like coming home to the place where her love of learning first had free rein. It is a seminal place in the life of the U of G alumna, who was appointed chair of the University's Board of Governors this summer. She is the first woman to hold the position.
Fostering reconciliation through relationships
Craig Wallace knows about the importance of global connections, and his work is paving the way for Indigenous students to access life-changing experiences through international education. Born in Niagara Falls, Canada, Craig is no stranger to the benefits of working or studying abroad. While he still considers Canada to be home, he has been living and working in Australia for over 8 years.
Alumna leading World Vision in The Congo
Anne-Marie Connor graduated from U of G with a master's degree in political science and international development in 2004. A senior humanitarian and development professional, she has spent about 15 years in resource mobilization, program management and leadership roles in a number of conflict-affected environments.
Looking back and ahead with MAC '67
The class of Macdonald Institute 1967 celebrated a reunion in Canmore, Alberta, September 23 - 27, 2019. Classmates from all across Canada came together to enjoy reconnecting and experiencing the beauty of the area. The class also celebrated the success of the MAC '67 50th Anniversary Scholarship project, which supports a student annually.
Alina's Superpowers
Grad Draws on Personal Experience to Run Guelph Counselling Centre
Psychology major Alina Kislenko turned her own struggles with ADHD and Asperger’s into a slew of successes. A lack of local counselling for others like her led Kislenko to found the Guelph Counselling Centre where she continues to improve lives today.
Oh She Glows
Grad Brings Healthy and Delicious Recipes to the World Through Award-Winning Blog and Cookbooks
Angela Liddon’s blog features more than 500 recipes and receives millions of visitors each month. She’s also the award-winning author behind two New York Times and Globe and Mail bestselling cookbooks: The Oh She Glows Cookbook and Oh She Glows Every Day. Her plant-based recipes are praised by vegan and omnivore readers alike.
CSAHS Alumna Recalls Life Lessons Learned at U of G
As the executive producer of CBC Life, Portia Corman manages a large team of writers, videographers, social media mavens and the like. Her job requires her to connect with people, be persuasive, and maintain good communication and relationships – skills she credits in part to psychology courses taken during her time at the University of Guelph.