Angelo Belcastro, a long-serving faculty member at York University, died suddenly on Feb. 17 at the age of 75.
Belcastro was a valued and highly respected member of the York University community. Since joining York in 2010, he served with distinction as professor and Chair of the School of Kinesiology & Health Science in the Faculty of Health, and as advisor and executive director, Markham Campus, in the Office of the Vice-President Academic & Provost. Throughout his career at York, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student success and institutional leadership.
Belcastro made significant contributions to the University through his service as a Senate representative to the Board of Governors and as a member of the Senate Executive Committee. His leadership played an important role in advancing academic planning and community engagement, including the development of the Markham Campus. Prior to joining York, he held senior academic leadership roles at the University of New Brunswick and Western University.
A dedicated scholar, Belcastro’s research centred on children’s physical activity and community-based strategies to promote health and fitness, including long-standing work in the Jane-Finch community. His commitment to equity and community partnership shaped his efforts to improve the lives of young people.
He was named a fellow of the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology for his leadership in setting evidence-based standards for exercise professionals and inspiring excellence in exercise physiology research. Belcastro also helped lead the development of Canada’s first Physical Activity Guide and contributed to national initiatives addressing sport and physical activity issues.
Through roles with Sport Canada, the Canadian Canoe Association and Active Healthy Kids Canada, he influenced the advancement of physical activity and sport knowledge across the country.
Outside of York, Belcastro was focused on family, and leaves behind his wife, two children and six grandchildren.
Belcastro will be remembered as a thoughtful leader, generous colleague and passionate advocate for education and community well-being. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, students and friends across the University.