University College Celebrates Distinguished Alumni, Welcomes Next Principal at Eighth Annual Awards Gala
The University College community gathered to celebrate some of its most accomplished members at the eighth annual Alumni of Influence awards banquet on November 13, 2019 at The Carlu in downtown Toronto.
More than 200 guests, including 14 of the 16 honourees, their friends and family, as well as University College students and faculty members came together for the induction, officiated by master of ceremonies Jennifer Dolman (BA 1986 UC), an active member of the alumni community, lawyer, and partner at Olser, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP.
Addressing the University College community for the first time was Principal Designate, Prof. Markus Stock, whose term begins in January. “We’ve gathered here to recognize individuals whose efforts promote international security, shape government policies, advocate for some of society’s most vulnerable, and much more,” he said. “Beyond the professional success our honourees have achieved, their work has also contributed greatly to creating a more empathetic, informed, and vibrant world. For this, we thank you.”
Guests were treated to a special performance by students from the Faculty of Music, who played a selection of songs from the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. A 14-hour musical extravaganza held at U of T’s Varsity Stadium in September of 1969, the superstar lineup of performers included Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Alice Cooper, The Doors, Eric Clapton, John Lennon and Yoko Ono.
Joining in on the celebration were Prof. Melanie Woodin, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science, current UC Principal Prof. Donald Ainslie, under whose tenure the awards were established, as well as past UC Principals Prof. Sylvia Bashevkin and Prof. Paul Perron. University of Toronto Chancellor Dr. Rose Patten delivered closing remarks.
The gala event has become a tradition at University College in the eight years since its inception, with more than 200 alumni having been honoured to date. Winners are selected by a committee of UC alumni and faculty members, on the basis of nominations from the UC community.