Congratulations to the class of 2020! This issue, we are celebrating our newest grads and asking you to reflect on your graduate class of the past. Let's begin with Mariam Abeid. She spent a lifetime seeking an education but had her dream derailed by discrimination and tragedy. The mother of three persevered and is now about to become an educator. Mariam graduated with a master's degree in child studies and education from OISE, and is looking forward to her first teaching job. Read more and watch now .
What's New at OISE

Marcus Singleton, an educator, activist and musician, just graduated from OISE’s Master of Education program in social justice education – and is heading back to school in fall, to pursue his doctorate. Read more. 

Dr. Ariel Lefkowitz, a doctor on the coronavirus frontlines and new MEd graduate, discusses juggling his medical career, parenthood and studies in education. Read more. 

In 1918, the arrival of Spanish Flu in Canada led to widespread closures of schools and businesses across Canada, while quarantine efforts, face masks, and public hygiene rules were put in place. Read more. 

Professor Lance McCready is currently working with Black queer youth to figure out ways he can increase their access to post-secondary education. Watch now. 

Professor Jennifer Brant sat down with U of T's "Science Sam" to speak about the history of structural inequities faced by Indigenous peoples and the contrasting responses to COVID-19 at governmental and local levels. Watch now.

Valerie and Krista both hold PhDs from OISE and they both work in higher education. But the paths they took couldn’t have been any more different. Learn more about this mother-daughter academic duo! Read more. 

Chad Gaffield (PhD 1978), a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, shares some words of wisdom and encouragement with the special class of 2020. Read more. 

We are asking all class years to reflect on your OISE memories and how far you've come since those days on campus. To be featured on our website this convocation season, please write a reflection no longer than 150 words – and share any photos you'd like – by Tuesday, June 30 . Email your submissions now!
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Celebrating Our Own: Alumni Spotlight

Surrounded by friends, family and community, seven Indigenous students (all 2020 graduates) were honoured for their scholarly and community contributions at OISE's first Indigenous Graduate Student Celebration. Read more. 


Professor Doug McDougall (MEd 1987, PhD 1997) has received the 2020 JJ Berry Smith Doctoral Supervision Award, which recognizes outstanding performance in the multiple roles associated with doctoral supervision. Read more.


Congratulations to Professor Emerita Gila Hanna (MEd 1978, PhD 1981), who has received the prestigious Dr. Jonathon Borwein Mathematics Ambassador Award from Partners in Research Canada. Read more.

An expat in Saudi Arabia, now an actor and producer: Mercedes Cardella (MEd 2018) has stories to tell. With a degree in curriculum and arts, she published a book – but Mercedes was not always in touch with her creative side. Read more.

Virtual Events & Webcasts
 OISE's webinar with Black faculty discussing anti-Black racism in education, and how to address it, is now available online. Watch now.

In this highly popular training session, you will learn about the science and practice of mindfulness and engage in practical strategies for beginning or deepening your own mindfulness practice. Watch now.

The ongoing pandemic has presented us with a tremendous paradigm shift. This recorded conversation explores some of the impacts COVID-19 is having on our human experience and how we might prepare for a "new normal." Watch now.

We want to keep the community connected and the learning experience thriving during the COVID-19 pandemic. The OISE Stay At Home Club features alumni and friends leading interactive lessons – for children and adults alike! You do not need to sign up to access the club sessions. Watch upcoming episodes.

This Indigenous History Month, tune in to the Indigenous Education Network's new read-along series! Episode one, "Learning Ojibwe with Numbers and Animals," features author Nicole Ineese-Nash and illustrator Nyle Miigizi Johnston. Watch episode one.

Find information and resources related to the OISE Alumni Association's Biennial General Meeting (2020 election period) which will be held virtually from June 28-30. All OISE alumni are invited to participate. Learn more.

Connect (virtually) with fellow alumni who like books from now until July 13! The University of Toronto invites you to join the Alumni Virtual Book Club for lively discussion about books related to lifelong learning, social issues, psychology and more. Register now.

Mentorship is more important than ever. It can offer guidance, support and friendship as we face the ongoing pandemic. While this year's OISE Mentorship Program for alumni and students may feel a little different, we hope you choose to become a mentor. Information about this year's program will be released on our website in August, and please watch for our registration email in September. Learn more.
Alumni Giving Back
Six OISE alumni have been recognized with our annual Leaders and Legends Awards program. Nominated by their peers at the Institute, the honour recognizes members who have shone through leadership in teaching, research and advocacy. Meet the winners.
Four graduating students from OISE have been recognized for their outstanding student leadership, service, and commitment to the university with the annual U of T Student Leadership Awards, an honour bestowed by the U of T Alumni Association. Meet our winners.
Alumni Perks

Take advantage of special discounts for alumni on award-winning mindfulness, sleep, meditation, and mental health apps. Learn more.

Are you a parent or individual looking for counselling or psychology services? Access OISE's telephone intervention program, call 416-978-0678. Learn more.

This summer, alum and business owner Megan McGuire is offering free classes for families with children, including those with special education needs. Learn more.

Register for up to 4-months of free access to LinkedIn Learning, featuring courses in Business, Technology, Design and Creative. Fall spots available . Learn more.
What to Read

Alum Rocco G. Racco (BEd 1987, MA 2014), who goes by the pen name Brockton Moutray, dedicated his first book, The Tale of the Missing Tail , to his professors at OISE who helped make the publication possible, with special thanks to instructor Guy Allen. Learn more.
We hope you enjoyed this edition of the OISE Alumni and Friends Newsletter. Until next time...stay connected! Come to a virtual event , join our new Facebook community group , or follow us on social media.