Victoria University Community Members Honoured with Arbor Awards
Members of the Victoria University community stand at the Arbor Awards ceremony. From left: Chancellor Nick Saul, Guy P. Jarvis, President Rhonda McEwen, Judy Goldring, Vasudev “Vas” Rao, Anushree Rai and Rosie Bell.
By Sally Szuster
Victoria University is proud to celebrate five distinguished volunteers and alumni who were recognized with Arbor Awards for their exceptional service to Victoria University and the University of Toronto. The awards were presented at a recent ceremony attended by President Rhonda McEwen and Louise Yearwood, Executive Director of Alumni Affairs & Advancement, and Chancellor Nick Saul.
Among this year’s honourees is Guy P. Jarvis Vic 8T4, whose long-standing commitment to mentorship reflects Victoria University’s enduring dedication to supporting its graduates. Through the Victoria Alumni Mentorship Program, Guy has guided young alumni exploring careers in finance, consulting and entrepreneurship. His involvement goes well beyond formal programming, extending to continued relationships with past mentees and informational interviews with alumni seeking advice and direction. Guy has also been a key supporter of Vic’s student mentoring event, Life After Vic, helping students navigate the transition from campus to career with confidence.
Judy Goldring Vic 8T7 was recognized for a remarkable record of leadership and philanthropy that has left a lasting imprint on Victoria University and the wider U of T community. Judy served nine years on Governing Council, including three years as Vice-Chair and three years as Chair, contributing thoughtful oversight to academic, business and student affairs. She also co-chaired Vic U’s Defy Gravity campaign, helping to advance the university’s most ambitious goals. Most recently, Judy’s transformational philanthropy supported the Birge Carnegie Library renovation, including the naming of the Goldring Family Reading Room, a space that will enrich the academic life of Vic U students for generations to come.
Vasudev “Vas” Rao was honoured for his exemplary service to Victoria University’s Board of Regents, where he served two terms as Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee and as Board Treasurer. In these roles, Vas played a central part in stewarding Vic’s financial health and governance practices. Demonstrating his deep commitment to the institution, he remained on the board for an additional year beyond his final term to support a leadership transition. Known for his clarity, integrity and collaborative approach, Vas’s expertise has been indispensable in helping the administration pursue its highest aspirations while maintaining rigorous standards of accountability.
Anushree Rai Vic 1T7 was recognized for her dedication to mentoring students and alumni pursuing careers in public health. Through the Victoria Alumni Mentorship and Vic Ready programs, Anushree has provided guidance to those seeking to further their education and chart meaningful career paths. She has also shared her expertise through one-on-one interviews with aspiring public health professionals and as a frequent presenter at Vic’s annual Career Pathways in Healthcare panel, helping students envision diverse and impactful futures.
Rosie Bell Vic 0T5 received an Arbor Award for her passionate support of students and alumni interested in mental health professions. Through the Victoria Alumni Mentorship and Vic Ready programs, Rosie has offered mentorship to those pursuing careers in social work and psychotherapy. Her commitment to wellbeing also includes hosting a wellness seminar for Vic alumni, where she shared practical tools for self-care and resilience. Rosie’s generosity and openness have helped foster a culture of empathy and self-awareness within the Vic community.
President Rhonda McEwen praised the honourees, saying, “Victoria University Arbor Award recipients embody the values of service, leadership and care for community that define our institution. Their contributions strengthen Vic U today and create opportunities for those who follow.”
Louise Yearwood added, “These honourees demonstrate the profound impact alumni and volunteers can have when they stay engaged with Victoria University. Their time, expertise and generosity continue to shape the student experience and the life of the University in meaningful ways.”