The University of Toronto has recognized its most outstanding volunteers of 2020 with Arbor Awards – a distinction reserved for the university’s leading citizens.
“This year's Arbor Award winners embody the excellence and diversity of the U of T community across our three campuses,” President Meric Gertler said in a video address. “By generously sharing your time, experience and expertise you have given back to the university in countless ways.
“Through your dedication, wisdom and enthusiasm you have opened new horizons for our students, supported the work of our scholars and helped rally the wider community in support of our shared goals.”
The Arbor Award is the highest honour granted by the university and is given for sustained contributions to specific academic units, such as faculties, colleges or institutes, or for broader contributions to the university at large. The 112 alumni and supporters recognized this year contributed a diverse array of skills and leadership.
“The Arbor Awards serve as an annual reminder of the ongoing contributions of our alumni to the mission of the University,” said Barbara Dick, assistant vice-president, alumni relations. “Alumni may leave our campuses after graduation, but they continue to demonstrate their dedication through volunteer service – both locally and around the world.”
The pandemic prevented an in-person gathering this year but “the limitations around ceremonies in no way diminished our collective gratitude and appreciation,” Dick said.
“You are an example and an inspiration to us all,” President Gertler said. “Thank you for your exceptional leadership and service, and congratulations on receiving this honour.”
Faculty of Law nominated recipients:
Andrew Alleyne
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 2002
Andrew has been a council member of the Law Alumni Association for the past five years, and also serves as a mentor to U of T law students. He has also been very involved in the faculty’s Welcome Day activities.
Donald M. Cameron
Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1975
Master of Applied Science, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, 1976
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1979
Don has taught the Patent and Trade Secrets Law course at the Faculty of Law for over 25 years and surveys intellectual property courses at other law schools, to ensure that U of T’s intellectual property curriculum remains unmatched in Canada. Don has written widely on IP topics and has spoken frequently at the Faculty of Law’s annual Patent Colloquium since 2014.
Boris Freesman
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1964
For 50 years, Boris has been the lead volunteer for the Class of ’64, annually planning their activities for the Faculty of Law Reunion, for an impressive total of 11 Reunions to date.
Andrew Heal
Juris Doctor, Faculty of Law, 1988
Andrew has served as a council member for the Law Alumni Association and a volunteer on the Class of '88 reunion committee, helping to engage his classmates and raise participation at their reunion.
Heather Platt
Bachelor of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, 1994
Master of Arts, Faculty of Arts & Science, 1996
Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law, 1999
Heather has been a dedicated council member of the Law Alumni Association, as well as a volunteer with the Faculty's Campaign for Excellence Without Barriers in support of financial aid and enhancing the student experience.
Faculty of Law alumni Fidelia Ho (JD 2013), Stephen Hutchison (JD 2011) and William James Keel (LLB 1984), were nominated by the U of T fencing team, Innis College and Trinity College, respectively.
