Alumni and Friends

When alumna Marie Foolchand first joined TikTok, she never expected she might one day be rubbing shoulders with celebrities, representing some of the world's top brands, and racking up millions of views and likes. But what started as a creative pastime quickly became an outlet for her to entertain, inspire and educate people from across the globe.

In high school, York alumna Jenna (Fray) Dolly knew she wanted a career helping people but admits she had no idea where to begin. When her guidance counsellor suggested she go into social work, she took the advice. It was a decision that launched a successful career – and got her an audience with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

It was the talk of the country in 1972 when Canada and Russia played in hockey’s Summit Series – the first competition between the National Hockey League’s best Canadian professionals and the Soviet Union’s “amateur” national team. Glendon grad Gary Smith was at the centre of it all and has written a riveting, behind-the-scenes account of how the series came to be and what it meant to hockey, Canada and international relations.

Innovator, entrepreneur, designer and creator, Leo Chan loves unleashing potential in people. It’s truly a joy for him to empower others with the transformational power of innovation. A formally trained graphic designer turned innovator and entrepreneur, he fondly remembers his time at York where he earned an undergraduate degree in design at York’s School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design.

A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, children's rights, and social justice, Lassonde School of Engineering alumna Basma Elbahnasawy is creating positive change by ensuring that youth, minority and vulnerable populations have access to necessities that empower them to build a better future.

Alumna Bri Darboh has long been fascinated by the brain and human behaviour. A trailblazer in the clinical neuropsychology field and a lifelong learner pursuing a PhD and an MBA, Bri maintains a fervent devotion to leadership, social advocacy, and outreach in healthcare.

Alumna Jonelle Sills credits York University with playing an integral role in her success. A lyric soprano whose performances led her to be on CBC’s list of Canada’s 30 hot classical musicians under 30 in 2020, Jonelle hopes to use her art to break down barriers and make classical music accessible to a wider and more diverse audience.