From celebrating our exceptional alumni community to strengthening alumni and donor engagement through programs and events, here are our top stories and highlights from 2025.
Transformational gift from the Mirkopoulos family
In March, York University celebrated a transformational gift from the Mirkopoulos family that will strengthen film education at York University and support the next generation of Canadian filmmakers. For over two decades, the Mirkopoulos family has played a vital role in film education at York, supporting young storytellers through scholarships, innovative facilities and initiatives such as the founding of the CineSiege student film festival.
York U alumni couple supports global experiential learning
In May, York alumni Paulina Lau (BSc ’81) and Hian Siang Chan (BA ’80) have pledged an additional $1 million to sustain and expand the Paulina Lau Scholars Program, empowering the University to extend funding for students seeking experiential learning opportunities on the global stage.
York community members recognized with Order of Canada and Order of Ontario
In January and June, we recognized members of the York University community who were honoured with the Order of Canada and Order of Ontario.
York donor Louie Belcastro gives back to the community
The Belcastro family recently visited Markham Campus to to meet with students and see the newly named Belcastro Family Lounge, dedicated in recognition of their generous gift to York University’s Markham Campus which will support its capital campaign and the development of student-focused spaces. Spaces like the Belcastro Family Lounge provides students with areas to collaborate, recharge and connect with peers—enhancing the overall student experience and fostering community.
Celebrating excellence at York Convocation
This year’s Convocation ceremonies saw close to 7,000 graduands in Spring and close to 2,500 graduands in Fall cross the stage to receive their degrees. This year’s highlights included Lilly Singh, who shared the experience of receiving an honorary degree with her 13 million social media followers.
York University community honours Black and 2SLGBTQIA+ graduates
In June, the York University Black Alumni Network (YUBAN) and York University Sexuality and Gender Advocacy (SAGA) Alumni Network held the third annual Black and Rainbow graduation celebrations. Graduates, alumni, faculty, staff, friends and allies gathered at Keele campus to celebrate and honour the achievements of the Class of 2025.
Learn more about the Black and Rainbow graduation celebrations
York U alumni celebrated at TIFF 50
Filmmaker alumni from York University’s School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (AMPD) were recognized with awards and honourable mentions at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
York alumni, former faculty earn recognition for social impact, leadership
In September, four individuals with affiliations to York University were recognized by the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) for their outstanding contributions to equity, social justice and Indigenous engagement.
Transformational gifts from Krembil Foundation
Thanks to an investment from the Krembil Foundation, York has officially launched the Psoriatic Arthritis Collaborative and Applied Research Excellence (PsA CARE) Hub, a research hub dedicated to advancing the fundamental science and mechanistic understanding of psoriatic arthritis. An additional $10 million gift to Schulich, will secure the future of student scholarships, expand health management education and strengthen Schulich’s role as a global leader in healthcare leadership and innovation.
Celebrating 25 years of the York U Alumni Awards
On Nov. 6, we gathered at the TIFF Lightbox for the 25th anniversary of the 2025 York U Alumni Awards. More than 200 guests were in attendance bringing together alumni, friends, faculty, students and staff for an evening of celebration, entertainment and networking.