KING’S HERALD
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FOUNDATION, ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT
Terra Ahrens
EDITOR
Jennifer Jones
CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS
John Anderson, BA ‘77
John Milner
Melissa Zuleta Jimenez
King’s Communications & Media Relations
DESIGN
Jason Recker carve brand + design
IMAGE:
in Law and Public Policy Symposium panelists at Homecoming.
Pictured L-R: Tingting Zhang, BA ‘16, Sheila Copps, BA ‘74, and Michelle Eaton, BA ‘05.
King’s Herald will be published online as of fall 2024. To ensure you continue receiving the alumni magazine, please update your email address at kings.uwo.ca/alumni/address-update.
The King’s Herald is published semi-annually by King’s University College Alumni and Development.
We welcome your letters, suggestions, or comments about the Association and the University. Opinions expressed in the King’s Herald do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or the University’s administration. Contact the Editor or Alumni and Development at: King’s University College Alumni and Development 266 Epworth Avenue
alumni@kings.uwo.ca
Some articles may have been reformatted to fit the style of the King’s Herald
A MESSAGE FROM OUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
As I step into the role of President of the King’s Alumni Association, I want to begin by expressing my deep gratitude to my predecessor, Colin Whitehead, for his incredible leadership and dedication over the past several years. Under Colin’s guidance, the Alumni Association thrived, and he has left us a solid foundation to build upon. I am honoured to follow in his footsteps and excited to embark on this new chapter together.
This fall, we had a wonderful time welcoming alumni back to campus for our Homecoming events. The Women in Law and Public Policy Symposium was a standout moment, where we heard from incredible women leaders making waves in their fields. The Alumni Awards Ceremony was also a highlight, as we celebrated the outstanding achievements of our fellow graduates. It’s always a privilege to witness how King’s alumni continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.
Looking ahead, I have big hopes for the future of our Alumni Association. One of my goals is to create more opportunities for alumni to connect, in-person or virtually. Save the date for King’s Connector, an alumni cocktail reception in downtown Toronto, on May 7, 2025.
Looking ahead, I have big hopes for the future of our Alumni Association. One of my goals is to create more opportunities for alumni to connect, in-person or virtually. Save the date for King’s Connector, an alumni cocktail reception in downtown Toronto, on May 7, 2025. The evening provides a great opportunity to come together as a community and make new connections. We also plan to host a trivia night in the new year, where we can share laughs while testing our knowledge. To help get everyone in the spirit, we’ve included some 70th-anniversary trivia questions on page 15. Test how well you know King’s history, and share your results with us!
In the spirit of staying connected, I also want to encourage all of you to take a moment to update your contact information. Whether you’ve moved or changed your email address, ensuring we have the most up-to-date information means you won’t miss out on future events, news, or opportunities to engage with your fellow alumni. Please follow us on our social media channels—Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (@KUCAlumni) —where we regularly share updates, event announcements, and alumni stories. Additionally, don’t forget to follow King’s on LinkedIn and ensure that you have King’s listed under your education so we can continue building our network and making connections that benefit us all.
Finally, I’m proud to announce that the alumni magazine has officially gone green! By transitioning to an online format, we are not only reducing our environmental impact but also making it easier for you to access our stories and updates from anywhere in the world. Keep an eye on your inbox for new editions, and we hope you enjoy this issue.
I look forward to serving as your Alumni Association President and all the exciting things we will achieve together. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope to see you at one of our upcoming events soon. Until then, stay connected, stay engaged, and let’s make the most of this next chapter for King’s alumni.
Warm regards,
Amelia Holden, BSW ‘00, MSW ‘07 president king
’ s university college alumni association
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT (INTERIM)
Welcome to the fall 2024 issue of the King’s Herald. As a member of the King’s Class of 1993, I have always been excited to receive each issue of the King’s Herald. As an alumnus, faculty member and now in my capacity as President (Interim), it’s inspiring to read about the many accomplishments and milestones of King’s alumni around the world. These stories are a testament to who we are as a community of scholars and learners; they anchor us to our ‘why’ as an academic institution dedicated to creating and transmitting knowledge in the service of the common good.
As I say often, King’s is a special kind of university. I believe it has a unique purpose in the world that reflects its history and evolution as a small and inclusive learning community affiliated with Western University. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this edition of the King’s Herald, to provide you with some important updates, and to share my vision for renewing and sustaining the promise of a King’s education for generations to come.
Our rich history was front of mind this year, especially with the celebration of our Platinum Anniversary to mark King’s 70th year. Over the decades, members of the King’s community: students, faculty, staff, and alumni, have accomplished great things, applying what they learned at King’s, including the friendships and connections made, to do good in the world. There is so much about our past to reflect upon, celebrate, and draw from for guidance about our future.
This past September, King’s hosted another successful Homecoming event that reminded us of the connections we all share. I know that those who could attend in person forged new memories by coming together on the King’s campus to spend time with the classmates, faculty and staff who made a difference in our lives. As always, our Alumni and Development Office organized a remarkable series of events that allowed us to gather in community and engage in meaningful dialogue about our past, present and future.
I was especially moved by the Alumni Awards Ceremony and Homecoming Dinner on Friday, September 27. Learning more about the profound impact award recipients, past and present, are making in their respective fields and communities truly was inspirational. The opportunity to present reunion pins to a diverse group of alumni celebrating graduating years ending in 4 and 9 – spanning 60 years – was a special honour for me. This photograph captured that special moment; I can’t think of a more powerful testament to the enduring promise and legacy of a King’s education.
The future of King’s is also very much at the forefront of our minds on this 70th anniversary of King’s founding. I’m pleased to report that we welcomed some 700 new students with the start of the fall 2024 term. Fittingly, on September 13, we launched Renewing the Promise: King’s 2030, our new strategic plan, which can be viewed by scanning the QR code.
Renewing the Promise: King’s 2030 is a dynamic vision for the future of King’s. The result of dialogue among diverse members of the King’s community, the plan sets out a series of interconnected goals and strategies to renew the promise of a high-quality, accessible and inclusive liberal arts education. Above all, Renewing the Promise aspires to prepare King’s today for King’s 2030. As I shared with the community at the start of classes in September, I look forward to the future of King’s with the same faith and enthusiasm I had when I first arrived here as a student some 35 years ago.
I invite you to stay connected and join us in this season of change, which brings with it renewal and opportunity. Your continued dedication to the special mission of this exceptional university is crucial to our enduring success.
Robert A. Ventresca, PhD president (interim) & professor
Over the decades, members of the King’s community: students, faculty, staff, and alumni, have accomplished great things, applying what they learned at King’s, including the friendships and connections made, to do good in the world.
Robert Ventresca, BA ‘93, with David Ducharme, BA ‘64, at the Homecoming Dinner anniversary pin presentation
Awards of Excellence in Teaching
Two alumni selected for the 2024 awards
Congratulations to Dr. Lynda Hutchinson, BA ‘01, Program Coordinator/Associate Professor of Psychology, and Trevor Medeiros, BA ‘15, Lecturer in the School of Management, Economics, and Mathematics (MEM), who were selected as the 2024 King’s Awards of Excellence in Teaching recipients. Dr. Hutchinson was recognized for full-time faculty and Medeiros was recognized for part-time faculty.
“Lynda and Trevor demonstrate daily their knowledge, passion, and dedication to their field of study, students, and alma mater. We are proud of their accomplishments, which serve as an inspiration to the King’s community. Congratulations to our distinguished alumni on being honoured with this prestigious award,” Terra Ahrens, Executive Director, Foundation, Alumni & Development, says.
Dr. Hutchinson and Medeiros were selected by a committee of students, faculty and staff who reviewed over 30 nominations from the King’s community.
Dr. Hutchinson has been teaching at King’s since 2013. Students consistently describe Dr. Hutchinson as an inspiring, engaging, and empathetic instructor.
“Receiving the Award of Excellence in Teaching represents a profoundly
meaningful achievement in my decade-long career at King’s. I am deeply honoured to join the roster of esteemed colleagues who have been recognized for their outstanding teaching contributions. When teaching Psychology, my primary objective is to nurture students’ personal growth and foster a love for lifelong learning,” says Dr. Hutchinson.
The selection committee noted the breadth of Dr. Hutchinson’s teaching contributions, from regularly teaching first-year Psychology courses to supervising thesis students in their fourth year. She has served as a mentor and a supervisor to graduate students and provided support as the Psychology Program Coordinator. Her contributions also include curricular development, notably the capstone experience in the new honours specialization in Applied Psychology.
“Dr. Hutchinson demonstrates the synergy of teaching and scholarship in her publications in educational psychology, which have impacted not only in the academic community but more broadly in educational practice,” says Dr. Mark Yenson, Interim VicePresident and Academic Dean.
Medeiros teaches economics courses and has a consistent track record of creative, positive student learning experiences year after year.
His students appreciate him for his approachability, his dedication to their learning success, and his ability to communicate intricate concepts in ways that students can understand and apply. Students noted his self-reflection and commitment to receiving and responding to ongoing feedback. Medeiros’ contributions to curricular development include the development and success of his timely course on “The Economics of War.”
“As a former student at King’s, it is an honour to return to the institution as a faculty member and be recognized for my teaching efforts. I am blessed to have such wonderful students who took the time to nominate and support me for this award,” says Medeiros.
Committee members noted Medeiros’ outstanding record of teaching excellence and care for his students. One nominator said Medeiros “galvanizes his pupils to approach macroeconomics with a profound sense of curiosity and tenacity.”
The Awards of Excellence in Teaching are officially presented at a ceremony in November as part of the annual Feast of Christ the King celebrations. In addition to the awards, Dr. Hutchinson and Medeiros each receive a stipend and are invited to present lectures to the King’s community.
Can you share a bit about what motivated you to run for King’s University College Students’ Council (KUCSC) President?
For me, Students’ Council became a clear choice for involvement once I understood just how much KUCSC does to keep the vibrant community energy of King’s alive and well!
What has been your biggest challenge or learning experience as President?
The biggest challenge is not necessarily the work that comes with the role of President but rather the ability to manage time when working in both the capacity of President and as a still-studying student. To have your place of learning also be your place of work creates an interesting dynamic where you essentially need two “mental gears”: a school brain and a work brain. The opportunity to work with so many students and members of our King’s community is the best learning experience I’ve had. Whether it’s fellow student leaders, members of faculty, administration, or staff, the desire to do what’s best for King’s is always a strong point of intersectionality and a point of inspiration for me.
Coffee Chat with Ricardo Soto-Canales, KUCSC President 2024-25
Fifth-year Politics and International Relations
How do you balance your academic work with your KUCSC responsibilities?
It is certainly a juggling act, but it helps that I’m in my fifth year of study and have a reduced course load. Even with this, I would say the most important aspect of balancing these responsibilities would be to block out your time as much as possible. I frequently use Google Calendar and other task-tracking applications to keep me caught up with all I need to do each week, which is a huge help!
From your perspective, how can alumni better connect with current students and Students’ Council?
I believe the best way for alumni and current students to connect is for us to update those previously involved with KUCSC or club executives on the progress of these organizations. Seeing how their efforts have evolved can foster a deeper sense of connection. This also creates opportunities for collaboration, where alumni and students can support each other. Alumni can share their experiences, while students can assist with alumni initiatives through engagement or volunteering. Together, we can
build on each other’s strengths and showcase the vibrant energy of the King’s community.
What are your hopes for the Students’ Council and your legacy as President?
I hope that KUCSC will be strongly connected with our surrounding community. King’s emphasizes community - and this means many things: connection with our students, our fellows at Western, Huron, and formerly Brescia, and our surrounding organizations and governing bodies within London. Strengthening connections with the City of London, the Chamber of Commerce, and local non-profits will broaden our reach and showcase our student body’s full potential.
As for my legacy, I wish to leave behind a solid foundation of partnerships and resources that future leaders can build on. Student influence is only limited by the ambition of those leading change. My goal is to ensure that future students have even more tools and opportunities than we do now— setting them up for greater success.
Women in Law and Public Policy Symposium
Alumnae panel empowers change to tackle housing crisis
Three notable King’s alumnae, some of the most distinguished voices in Canadian public policy, examined the housing crisis through a gendered lens as part of the “Empowering Change: Addressing Canada’s Housing Crisis Through a Gendered Lens” panel.
Moderated by Dr. Erin Hannah, Associate Dean of Research and Professor of Politics and International Relations, the panel marked the start of Homecoming weekend.
The panel emphasized the critical need to examine the housing crisis in Canada by considering how women, particularly marginalized groups like single mothers, immigrants, and Indigenous women, face disproportionate challenges in securing safe and affordable
housing. The panelists discussed how law and public policy can be leveraged to craft inclusive and equitable solutions to these systemic barriers, offering timely and critical insights for the London community and beyond.
The panelists, who each contributed a wealth of experience and expertise to the discussion, were:
The Honourable Sheila Copps, BA ‘74, Chair and President of MediproCanada Inc., and former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada. Copps has a storied career in Canadian public policy, with significant contributions to diversity, inclusion, and environmental protection.
Michelle Eaton, BA ‘05, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs
for OLG and former Vice President of Public Affairs at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. Eaton has extensive experience in public affairs and strategic management, significantly impacting organizational growth and policy influence.
Tingting Zhang, BA ‘16, Junior Policy Analyst at the C.D. Howe Institute, specializing in human capital, women’s workforce development, and health policy. Zhang’s research focuses on immigration, labour market concerns, and healthcare policy issues in Canada.
Their discussion not only shed light on the intersection of gender and housing but also proposed actionable solutions to one of Canada’s most pressing issues.
“Led by distinguished King’s alumnae, this panel profoundly impacted King’s students and the broader community by engaging them in a conversation about Canada’s housing crisis. This discussion empowered students to understand how they can contribute to dismantling systemic barriers and advocate for policies that ensure all women have access to safe, affordable housing,” says Dr. Hannah.
Following the panel, alumni and students mingled at a networking reception in the Garron Family Learning Lounge, which included the opportunity to have complimentary professional headshots taken.
Scan the QR code to watch a recording of the Women in Law & Public Policy Symposium through Rogers TV.
Alumni Award of Distinction
Douglas Fry, BA ‘98, President, North America, of Subway, stands out for his exceptional leadership in this senior executive role.
His tenure at Subway has been marked by a significant enhancement of restaurant operations and business performance, largely due to his commitment to fostering strong franchisee relations. Before his remarkable success at Subway, Fry amassed over two decades of experience in the restaurant and consumer packaged goods industries, holding prestigious roles at McDonald’s, Recipe Brands, and Kraft Heinz.
Fry’s nomination for the Alumni Award of Distinction comes from two of his former classmates, Cate Murray, BA ‘96, and Tania Vrionis, BA ‘96, who lauded him for embodying the core values of King’s. They noted, “When he left King’s, he took with him the diverse perspectives he had learned in the classroom, from friends, and the many special experiences only King’s could offer.”
Murray and Vrionis described Fry as a driven individual with a deep-seated passion for making a difference in the world. This drive is rooted in his upbringing; his mother, Hedy Fry, MP for Vancouver Centre since October 1993 and the longest-serving female Member of Parliament, instilled in him the importance of service and giving back. His father, a doctor, further shaped Fry’s strong work ethic.
“While Doug’s professional accomplishments are impressive, his dedication to community service truly distinguishes him. His commitment to volunteering and coaching is exceptional,” says Amelia Holden, BSW ‘00, MSW ‘07, President of the King’s Alumni Board of Directors and Chair of the Alumni Awards Selection Committee.
Fry’s community involvement is extensive. He has served on the board of directors for Brave Beginnings, an organization that provides personalized support through mentorship to women facing abuse and social injustices. Additionally, as an assistant coach for the York Mills Hockey Club, Fry has played a pivotal role in helping young athletes reach their potential, develop teamwork skills, and overcome challenges. He also contributes to the business community as a keynote speaker, industry panellist, and mentor, offering valuable insights, best practices, and inspiration. Fry’s commitment to service began at King’s, where he held significant roles with the King’s University College Students’ Council (KUCSC). He served as Vice President of Finance in 1994-95 and President in
1995-96. After graduating, he worked as a King’s liaison officer for eight months.
Murray and Vrionis aptly summarize Fry’s impact: “His time at King’s undoubtedly shaped the professional Doug Fry, a leader who remains inclusive and confident, always respecting colleagues’ views and fostering high-performing teams. On a personal level, Doug is a devoted husband, father, son, and brother who cherishes celebrating the milestones of those he loves. His warmth, smile, and positive energy are gifts to everyone around him.”
In closing, Murray and Vrionis affirm, “There is no better recipient for this award of distinction than Doug Fry. He proudly represents King’s and is a role model for the next generation of graduates. We are honoured to have been his classmates and to witness his professional and personal success.”
Recent Graduate Award
Amid the challenges of the pandemic, Helen Smith, BA ‘12, emerged as a beacon of creativity and resilience.
As a dedicated mother and an inspiring entrepreneur, Smith founded Roo & You, a company that has brought joy to countless families and ascended to the forefront of her industry in Canada. Inspired by her sons’ imaginative play with couch cushions, Smith designed “The Joey,” a modular play couch that seamlessly blends style with functionality.
Under Smith’s leadership as CEO, Roo & You has thrived, propelled by self-funding, enthusiastic word-of-mouth, strategic social media engagement, and one of the longest pitches in the history of the television program Dragons’ Den. The company now stands as Canada’s largest manufacturer of modular play couches for children.
Over the past two years, Roo & You has partnered with iconic brands such as Batman, Barbie, Harry Potter, and Elf on the Shelf, driving impressive growth. Notably, the company’s new Play Mat, released in May 2024, sold out in just ninety minutes.
In 2023, Roo & You earned the prestigious Canadian Small Business of the Year Award from CanadianSME Small Business Magazine and RBC. Smith is also a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Award and the Small Business Owner of the Year at the Wonder Woman Awards.
Smith’s journey as an entrepreneur and her lived experience as an immigrant fuels her passion for inclusivity. She is dedicated to empowering women, especially women of colour, to assert their rights and amplify their voices.
“Helen often credits her education, particularly at King’s, for shaping her into the person and leader she is today. At King’s, she discovered her learning difficulties, and the support she received from the faculty and staff profoundly altered the course of her life,” says her husband, Matthew Smith, BA ‘10, who nominated her for this award.
While at King’s, Helen Smith worked with the Women’s Interval Home and continues to support organizations such as Mamas for Mamas and the Canadian Down Syndrome Society. Roo & You has generously contributed to the King’s Alumni Golf Tournament in support of student scholarships. Smith remains actively involved with King’s, volunteering as a mentor during Homecoming, participating in the Entrepreneur’s Club panel, and speaking at various student events.
“Helen is the creative force behind Roo & You, leading innovation, design, and product development. Her maternal instincts drive her to fiercely protect her family, team, and the Roo & You community. Witnessing her vision unfold has been an immensely rewarding experience,” says Matthew Smith, COO of Roo & You.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Helen’s remarkable success with Roo & You. Her dedication and creativity have built a thriving business, all while she continues to give back to the community and volunteer at King’s,” says Holden.
HOMECOMING 2024
This year’s Homecoming marked the 70th anniversary of King’s and brought together alumni, students, faculty and staff for a fantastic weekend of celebrations! From reconnecting with old friends to making new connections, every event was an opportunity to share memories, toast milestones and honour King’s’ legacy. Activities offered throughout the weekend provided plenty of inspiration, including the thought-provoking Women in Law & Public Policy Symposium and the Alumni Awards Ceremony that highlighted our alumni’s outstanding
achievements. Whether catching up at the dinner or enjoying the tailgate party before cheering on our Western Mustangs, those who attended were energized by their connection to the King’s community.
Homecoming isn’t just about looking back—it’s also about staying connected and remembering that no matter where life takes you, King’s will always be a place to call home.
We can’t wait to see you next year for even more reunions, reminiscing and King’s pride!
Thank you to this year’s sponsors, whose generous support helped create an incredible celebration.
PLATINUM DINNER SPONSOR
SYMPOSIUM SPONSOR
NETWORKING RECEPTION & PHOTOBOOTH SPONSOR
AWARDS CEREMONY & BRONZE DINNER SPONSOR
ALUMNI PROFILE
How has your liberal arts education, particularly your background in English, contributed to your career, especially in your role as Vice President Legal at Artemis Gold Inc.?
My liberal arts education at King’s greatly assisted me in pursuing a legal career. A degree in English isn’t just about reading books (although, admittedly, that was the best part). Rather, in literary studies, we were taught how to research and understand various literary theories, being the underlying principles or the tools by which we attempt to understand literature (a story) – ranging from feminist, postmodernist, post-structuralist theories, and more. We were taught to apply these literary theories to works of art to come to a greater understanding of that work. In that way, my English Literature degree is very similar to and prepared me for my career in law. In law, we research and understand various legal theories or principles, tools of interpretation, or contractual terms and apply them to a set of facts to come to a fulsome understanding of the ‘story’ (or, more often, dispute) at hand.
In literature, just like in law, the application of differing theories or principles can, of course, yield different understandings – thus, in literature and in law, we are taught how to write persuasively: how to analyze conflicting or differing theories from both sides, to build and communicate the strongest interpretation.
CATCHING UP WITH MALINDA KELLETT, BA ‘03
VICE PRESIDENT LEGAL, ARTEMIS GOLD INC
Most importantly, however, I think a liberal arts degree teaches students how to think creatively and critically, and how to clearly and persuasively communicate complex concepts both verbally and in writing. This skill has been most critical to my success as VP Legal, and is quite rare in the workplace.
What advice would you give to students who are pursuing a liberal arts degree and are unsure about their career paths?
When I was deciding to go to King’s, I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do with my life (I’m still unsure, for the record). As I was choosing my degree, my parents had two key messages that have proved true to me:
1. Education is never wasted –what you learn you will take with you for life, and you will inevitably use it (my edit: except maybe the Pythagorean theorem – but, arguably, I didn’t really learn that anyway); and
2. Pursue what you are genuinely interested in - you will inevitably do well, which will open more doors and lead you down a path you can’t yet see.
What has been one of the most rewarding moments or achievements in your career so far?
I’ve learned that who you work with really matters. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with a team of bright, talented, motivated people who are invested in my success
and the collective success of the team. The work is just work, but it’s amazing what you can accomplish and how you can grow when you undertake that work with a team that you truly admire and respect. It’s fun.
FAVOURITE KING’S MEMORY
Generally, I think morning runs around the campus in the fall. It’s truly a beautiful place to pursue your studies.”
KING’S TRIVIA PLATINUM ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Q1. Who was the first principal of King’s?
A. Monsignor Lester A. Wemple
B. Dr. Dante Lenardon
C. Dr. Robert Cabrini
Q2. The King’s Connection is the student-run shop for King’s merchandise. What was the original store called?
A. The King’s Closet
B. The Pro Shop
C. King’s Campus Store
Q3. What was the original name?
A. King’s College
B. Christ the King College
C. University of Christ the King
Q4. Which country does NOT currently have a King’s grad living there (that we know of):
A. Brazil
B. Mongolia
C. Croatia
Q5. What year did the first female graduate from King’s?
A. 1957
B. 1969
C. 1973
Q6. King’s first graduating class was in 1957. How many students graduated?
A. 15
B. 8
C. 5
Q7: In 1971, King’s published a recruitment ad in which magazine:
A. Time Magazine
B. Maclean’s Magazine
C. Canadian Living
Q8. The first student newspaper at King’s was called:
A. The King’s Men
B. The King’s Herald
C. The Regis
Q9. Dr. John Snyder began teaching a Theology of Marriage course in 1969 with an enrolment of 80 students. By 1971, the popular class had two sections with a total enrolment of 250 students. Where was it held?
A. St. Peter’s Chapel
B. King’s Chapel
C. St. Peter’s Auditorium
Q10. What was the original name of Dante Lenardon Hall?
A. Silverwood House
B. Thompson House
C. Ivey House
See page 19 for answers
I consider myself blessed to have lived in such a great country with abundant opportunities for success. The support and encouragement from my family and friends positioned me to embrace multiple challenges, one being the pursuit of a post-secondary degree from King’s University College. Being a mature student with a young wife and infant son, this was not an easy task.
So many students face struggles that make it difficult to achieve their dreams. Imagine what it would be like for:
• A young person who feels like an outsider, maybe even in their own family, because they’ve always had to take care of themselves
• A single parent who’s been raising their family and decided it is time to invest in themselves
• A student with a visible or invisible disability navigating the functional limitations of their disability in the university environment
• A newcomer to Canada who’s trying to create a life in a country that doesn’t feel like home yet
Come Together and Change Lives
A letter from John Anderson, BA ‘77
This is where a King’s education can make all the difference. The University is devoted to inclusivity – it’s woven into every student’s experience. The faculty and staff are dedicated to making each student feel safe, cared for, and seen as a unique individual and part of a community committed to their success.
King’s is a magical place to learn, where individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds are embraced and given opportunities to realize their potential and make meaningful contributions to the world. They just need a chance. This is where you and I can make a difference.
Join me in creating opportunities for future King’s students by supporting an Opportunities Fund
The Opportunities Fund will help cover tuition, accommodations, textbooks, and other costs associated with post-secondary education. I believe receiving this support will do more than address the financial barrier standing between individuals and their
MIRANDA’S STORY
The Opportunities Fund will help cover tuition, accommodations, textbooks, and other costs associated with post-secondary education.
dreams of a King’s education. Our faith in their potential can boost their faith in themselves – and isn’t that what we all need to succeed?
Thank you for considering this request for support. Now, let’s come together and change lives.
John Anderson BA ‘77 POLITICAL SCIENCE
Make your donation today: kings.uwo.ca/give
I am Indigenous and grew up in a family that struggled with substance abuse. The barriers to success in my life have been pervasive. After losing my mom to addiction when I was 18 years old, I had no choice but to begin living on my own in subsidized housing. Financial struggles have been a recurring problem for me, so there are truly no words for how much this award has helped. The funding I received has supported me as a student to ensure my success in the Social Work program. I am proud to say that my mental health has never been better, and I am getting straight As in school. With my Social Work degree, I aspire to help children who have experienced similar life barriers to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.
Scan the QR code to stay up-to-date and follow @KUCAlumni on Facebook, Instagram and X.
MILESTONES
Share your milestones (job, marriage, birth announcements, etc.) in the next issue of the King’s Herald by emailing your news to alumni@kings.uwo.ca or by completing the online form kings.uwo.ca/alumni/address-update. Photos are welcome, space permitting.
Frank Cosentino, BA ‘58, was inducted into the Western Mustangs Sports Hall of Fame in September 2024, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Terry Leon, BA ‘72, assumed the role of chairman of Leon’s Furniture Ltd. following the retirement of Mark Leon at the end of 2023.
John Mackle, BA ‘73, has retired.
Paul Yates, BA ‘79, is in his 28th year of professional sports photography.
Julia (Mayos) Parker, BA ‘83, recently travelled to British Columbia to celebrate her son Steven’s graduation from Law School.
Patricia (Reid) Neufeld, BSW ‘85, retired on May 31, 2024.
Anthony Scaletta, BA ‘88, and Kari Anne Scaletta, BA ‘88, welcomed their first grandchild by their daughter Bianca in 2019.
Karen (James) L’Heureux BA ‘92, retired from teaching/guidance counselling after 31 years in June 2024.
Karyn (Collins) Bruneel, BA ‘94, was appointed as the new Director of Education for the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School board, effective August 1, 2024. She is an experienced leader in Catholic education.
Deidre Deacon, BA ‘94, General Manager, Channel Chief, ViewSonic Canada, was named to the CRN Women of the Channel list for 2024, which recognizes women leaders for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence.
Alana Walker Carpenter, BA ‘96, hosted “Roaring Forward” at The Globe and Mail in the spring to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her organization, Intriciti. At the event, she announced the launch of the Canadian Centre for the Integration of Faith & Business (CCIFB). She continues to redefine what it means to lead, what success looks like, and the gift that love, compassion, and empathy can bring inside and outside the boardroom.
Michael Lawless, BA ‘02, Head of Apple Music and Apple Podcasts, was named one of Billboard Canada’s 2024 Power Players.
Mark Wareing, BACS ‘07, was appointed as a new Director & Team Leader for CIBC.
Nabeel Kassam, BMOS ‘08, was promoted to Vice President of Finance and Operations at Cision.
Cheryl Stone, BA ‘08, Director, Strategic Priorities & Public Affairs, Nieuport Aviation, was named Top 20 Under 40 by Wings Magazine in recognition of her leadership, innovation, influence, achievement and dedication to Canadian aviation and aerospace.
Heather Marshall, BA ‘10, released her second novel, The Secret History of Audrey James, on June 4, 2024. Her third novel, Liberty Street, will be published in spring 2026, and her fourth book will follow in spring 2028.
Wayne Flannery, BMOS ‘14, became a CPA in May 2024.
Nick Lavery ‘15, has been running his video production company, Take5 Digital, for 12 years.
Kathryn Lawson, BA ‘15, published her first sole author book, Ecological Ethics and the Philosophy of Simone Weil: Decreation for the Anthropocene, with Routledge’s Environmental Ethics Series and has started a position as a Faculty Fellow in the First Year Program at University of King’s College in Halifax.
Ryan Nigli, BA ‘16, was ordained as a priest of the Archdiocese of Toronto on May 11. The Mass of Ordination was held at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica.
Ryan is serving as Associate Pastor at St. Justin Martyr Parish in Unionville as of June 26, 2024.
Paulina Devos, BSW ‘20, married Brent Devos, BSc ‘19 (Western), on February 3, 2024. In September, Pauline returned to King’s to complete the Master of Social Work program.
Richard Aduboffour, BA ‘24, was selected by the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL) as part of the 2024 CFL draft. The defensive back for the Western Mustangs was a two-time Ontario University Athletics (OUA) AllStar. He made the second-team roster in 2022 and was a first-team All-Star in 2023. Richard was selected in the eighth round as the 68th pick overall.
TRIVIA ANSWERS:
1. A – Monsignor Lester A. Wemple was the first principal of King’s. He held this position from 1955-1965.
2. B – The Pro Shop was founded by Paul Dub, BACS ‘94.
3. B – The original name was Christ the King College.
4. C – We are not aware of any alumni living in Croatia. If you’ve moved, update your contact information at www. kings.uwo.ca/alumni/ address-update
5. B – The first female graduate of King’s was Julie-Ann McCarthy, who graduated in 1969. She was a transfer student from Brescia.
6. C – The first graduating class had 5 graduates.
7. A – In 1971, King’s published an advertisement in Time Magazine, promoting King’s as a small, co-educational, liberal arts college. The ad attracted interest in King’s from students across Canada.
8. A – The King’s Men student newspaper was published weekly and included accounts of student events and concerns at the College.
IN MEMORIAM
We extend our condolences to the family and friends of:
Fr. Joseph Hardy, BA ‘71, who passed away on June 2, 2024.
Jamie Howe, BA ‘71, who passed away on April 26, 2024.
Ged Tillman, BA ‘71, who passed away on April 27, 2024.
Michael O’Brien, BA ‘72, who passed away on June 20, 2024.
Frances Vitali, BA ‘91, who passed away on August 1, 2024.
Ryan Held, BA ‘04, who passed away on August 16, 2024.
Omar Barzak, BA ‘21, who passed away on April 26, 2024.
9. C – Dr. John Snyder began teaching a Theology of Marriage course in 1969 with an enrolment of 80 students. By 1971, the popular class had two sections with a total enrolment of 250 students. It had to be taught in the auditorium of St. Peter’s.
10. A – The original name of Dante Lenardon Hall was the Silverwood House. Ownership of the property was completed in July 1977. Often referred to as “the mansion,” it was renamed Dante Lenardon Hall in 1992.
