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U of T Celebrates its ‘True Blue’ Faculty Members, Librarians & Staff

U of T ranks among the best universities globally because of outstanding employees whose efforts support and improve our tri-campus community. The University’s True Blue Award recognizes and celebrates some of our exemplary faculty members, librarians, and staff whose contributions make U of T an excellent place to work.

We are pleased to announce our most recent recipients of the True Blue Award. These individuals were nominated for a True Blue Award when their colleagues sent them a True Blue eCard on the True Blue Recognition Platform for the months of January to March 2025. Join us in celebrating these individuals who went above and beyond in their commitment to the University.

True Blue eCards highlight the outstanding daily contributions of our faculty members, librarians, and staff. Expressing gratitude for our colleague’s work is integral to fostering a culture of inclusion and appreciation at the University of Toronto.

Meet some of our latest recipients

January 2025

Marien Ponce

Marien

Marien was recognized for being a trusted recruitment partner. In a time of urgent hiring needs, she moved quickly to secure key hires, minimizing disruption and ensuring continuity. Thanks to her dedication and expertise, hiring goals were met on time. Her reliability and commitment are deeply appreciated.

Max Giuliani

Max

Max was recognized for sharing his expertise in Power Automate and Power Applications using the Myhal Fabrication Facility as a case study. His guidance helped the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Teaching Labs streamline and digitize safety training.

Max’s openness to share and teach reflects a strong commitment to innovation and organizational impact.

Teresa Levitt

Teresa

Teresa was recognized for her quick thinking and dedication; she successfully resolved an issue critical to a postdoctoral researcher obtaining their work permit. She went above and beyond her normal responsibilities to ensure everything was in place for their permit.

Ricky C. Jaipaulisngh

Ricky

Ricky was recognized for going above and beyond in supporting the Faculty of Law. Ricky has been instrumental in resolving various issues and ensuring everything runs smoothly ahead of major events. Ricky’s responsiveness and dedication make a real difference, and his behind-the-scenes support doesn’t go unnoticed.

February 2025

Arabelle Arcaina

Arabelle

Arabelle was recognized for exceptional care and dedication in supporting the 2024-25 Strive cohorts at University College. Her thoughtful approach to building relationships with campus partners and promoting the program has created meaningful and Inclusive experiences for students. Her work plays a vital role in student development and success, and her contributions are deeply valued by University College students and colleagues.

Magda Brar

Magda

Magda was recognized for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence that have made a lasting impact on her team. She consistently goes above and beyond, contributing immense value through her hard work and unwavering support.

March 2025

Alexander Zaranek

Alexander

Alexander was recognized for his leadership and dedication after stepping up during the absence of a team member, ensuring seamless operations and uninterrupted support for students. This period coincided with a particularly busy time, yet Alexandar’s leadership, hard work, and commitment ensured that all initiatives stayed on track.

Celine Gibbons-Taylor

Celine

Celine was recognized for playing a key role in fostering spaces rooted in diversity, equity, and belonging. Through events like Black Woman Dreaming and Pholourie and Pain, she has helped create environments where community members feel safe and supported. Through her presence, countless students and staff have found a deeper connection with each other and themselves, creating a more inclusive and compassionate campus.

Xinge (Sherry) Xu

Sherry

Sherry was recognized for her remarkable leadership in guiding the Co-Curricular Record (CCR) portfolio through a time of significant transition. The shift to the Folio platform was a complex and demanding process, yet Sherry navigated the change with impressive organization, thoughtful insight, and a steady head. She skillfully managed a high volume of tasks while offering intelligent process-improvement suggestions.