More than 20 York University community members have been recognized with a prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal, a commemorative honour awarded to individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to public service and society.
Recipients of the King Charles III medal are recognized for their meaningful impact across various sectors, including education, research, public policy and social advocacy. The medal particularly honours individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their communities, long-standing dedication to Canada's well-being and efforts that foster positive change both nationally and beyond.
King Charles III Coronation Medal
The York University members - including current and former faculty and staff, students, alumni and honorary degree reciepients - who received the medal are:
Alidad Amirfazli
A professor and chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirfazli's pioneering research in surface engineering and droplet dynamics has earned him numerous accolades. His work has led to significant advancements in coatings, anti-icing surfaces and applications in aerospace, health care and energy industries.
Janine Brodie
Brodie is a political scientist and former professor who was honoured for her influential work in Canadian politics and social policy. Her research has shaped national discussions on equality, social justice and governance, making lasting contributions to public policy and academic scholarship.
Bruce Campbell
A professor and former executive director of the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, Campbell was recognized for his extensive work in public policy analysis. His expertise has been instrumental in investigating economic inequality, corporate power and governmental accountability in Canada.
Lisa Cole
Director of programming at the Lassonde School of Engineering's k2i academy, Cole was awarded for her contributions to STEM education and outreach initiatives. She has been a driving force in increasing diversity and accessibility in STEM fields, inspiring underrepresented youth to pursue careers in science and engineering.
Sheila Colla
Colla, an associate professor in the Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change, was acknowledged for her research in conservation biology and pollinator ecology. Her work focuses on protecting at-risk bee populations and advocating for sustainable environmental policies.
Peter Constantinou
Constantinou, professor in the School of Public Policy and Administration, was recognized for his expertise in public sector management and policy development. He has trained generations of public servants and policymakers, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making and leadership.
Jennifer Corriero
An alumnus and community fellow at the Wellness Impact Lab (WIL) at the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, Corriero was honoured for providing educational resources and delivering interactive learning services to remote Indigenous communities. Corriero has enhanced access and opportunities for thousands of young people across Canada. As co-founder of TakingITGlobal, she has championed digital inclusion and youth empowerment on a global scale.
Pina D'Agostino
D'Agostino, an associate professor at Osgoode Hall Law School, was awarded for her leadership in intellectual property law and innovation. She is the founder of the Intellectual Property Law & Technology Program at Osgoode, which advances research and education in the field.
Sheila Embleton
A professor in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, Embleton was honoured for her work in linguistics, particularly in dialectology and sociolinguistics. Her research explores language change, variation and policy, with implications for multicultural communication and education.
Marco Fiola
Fiola, principal at York's Glendon College, was recognized for his expertise in translation studies and multilingual communication. His work has contributed to cross-cultural understanding and the development of translation standards in Canada and beyond.
Tammy Gordon
York University alumna and co-founder of the Tamara Gordon Foundation, Gordon was acknowledged for her advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Through her foundation, she has provided scholarships and support to students with disabilities, fostering inclusivity in education.
Wesley Hall
Hall, who is an honorary docotorate recipient, was recognized for his efforts in eliminating systemic anti-Black racism and fostering the success of entrepreneurs and leaders from racialized communities. As a business leader and philanthropist, he has launched initiatives that promote equity and representation in corporate Canada.
Barrie Jones
An alumnus and renowned photographer, Jones was recognized for his contributions to the arts. His work captures powerful social narratives, exploring themes of identity, history and cultural transformation.
James Kamstra
Kamstra, an alum, was recognized for his work in protecting and conserving Canada's endangered biodiversity as a field biologist and environmental consultant. His expertise has supported ecological restoration projects and policy recommendations for preserving native species.
Sam Lanfranco
A professor emeritus in the Department of Economics, Lanfranco was recognized for his work in international development, information and communication technology policy, as well as knowledge management. His research has informed global strategies on digital economies and equitable access to technology.
Rhonda Lenton
President and vice-chancellor of York University, Lenton was recognized for her leadership in academia and commitment to fostering innovation and excellence. She has championed student success, research impact and the University's role as a driver of positive societal change.
Suzanne MacDonald
MacDonald, professor in the Department of Psychology, specializes in animal behaviour and cognition, with research focusing on wildlife in urban environments. Her studies have provided critical insights into human-wildlife interactions, informing conservation strategies and urban planning.
Makini McGuire-Brown
An MBA graduate and PhD candidate at York University's Schulich School of Business, McGuire-Brown was awarded for her work in health policy and integrating internationally trained physicians into the Canadian health-care system. She has been a strong advocate for equitable health-care access and workforce inclusion.
Sapna Sharma
Associate professor in the Department of Biology, Sharma was honoured for her research on the effects of climate change on freshwater ecosystems. Her work has advanced understanding of ice cover loss, species migration and the ecological impacts of warming temperatures.
Pamela Schwartzberg
Schwarztberg, an alumna and CEO of the organization Learning for a Sustainable Future which is located at York, received the award in recognition of contributions and dedication to sustainability and climate change education in Canada.
Jennifer Traub
An alumna, Traub was awarded for her leadership in supporting the Canadian Cancer Society and her contributions to cancer policy and fundraising initiatives. Her efforts have helped improve patient support services, research funding and public awareness.
Akolisa (Ako) Ufodike
Assistant professor in the School of Administrative Studies, Ufodike was recognized for his research in public sector governance and accountability. His work examines financial oversight, ethics and transparency in both government and non-profit sectors.
Deb Voorheis
Voorheis, a senior lecturer in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, was recognized for her volunteer work with Parkinson Canada.
Rui Wang
Professor and dean of the Faculty of Science at York University, Wang was awarded for his biomedical research on gasotransmitters and cardiovascular health. His pioneering work has contributed to medical advancements in treating cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
The award recipients highlight York University's enduring impact in academia, public service and social change, as well as a testament to how its community is shaping a better future through their expertise and dedication.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
