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Six standout members of the �ʹ�����’s community – including five alumni – are being recognized this year with Distinguished Service Awards for their long-time dedication and impact on the university.  

Chosen by the University Council Executive Committee, the awards honour individuals who have gone above and beyond in making �ʹ�����’s a better place.  

The 2025 recipients include faculty, staff, and volunteers who’ve helped shape �ʹ�����’s through years of leadership, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes support.  

“What an incredibly inspiring group of people we’re celebrating with this year's Distinguished Service Awards,” says Principal Patrick Deane. “Their passion, commitment, and generosity have made a lasting mark at �ʹ�����'s, and we're all better for it. On behalf of the university, I congratulate and extend a heartfelt thanks to each of you — you represent the best of our community, and your work is inspiring.” 

Recipients will be celebrated on Nov. 7 (5:30 pm – 7:30 pm) during a reception at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. Registration for the event is now open. 

The 2025 recipients are:    

Stephen Archer, Meds’81 
Stephen Archer is a professor and former head of the Department of Medicine. For more than 13 years, he led transformative change in clinical care, education, and equity, while founding the Translational Institute of Medicine and the translational medicine graduate programs. A renowned physician-scientist and mentor with 300-plus publications, he advanced �ʹ�����’s standing in translational research, played a key role in pandemic response, and developed sustainable academic funding models – leaving a lasting impact on the Department of Medicine and strengthening �ʹ�����’s reputation for innovation.  

Heather Black, Sc’81 
Alumna and volunteer leader Heather Black has dedicated more than 40 years of transformative service to �ʹ�����’s. She’s held nearly every major alumni and governance role – including president of the alumni association and member of the Board of Trustees – leaving a legacy of thoughtful leadership, principled mentorship, and inclusive community-building. A champion of alumni engagement and student support, she’s a connector and behind-the-scenes force whose lasting contributions continue to shape �ʹ�����’s in meaningful ways.   

Tianna Edwards, MA’23 
Tianna Edwards is the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator at the Yellow House Student Centre for Equity and Inclusion and has eight years of service to �ʹ�����’s. A dedicated advocate and visionary leader, she has helped transform student life through initiatives like Black@�ʹ�����’s, Black Swims, and the Black Student Caucus. Her work advancing the Scarborough Charter and fostering community, mentorship, and systemic change has made a lasting impact on equity, inclusion, and student well-being at �ʹ�����’s and beyond.  

Panagiotis (Takis) Katsabanis, MSc’83, PhD’88 
An associate professor in the Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining, Takis Katsabanis has devoted more than 37 years to �ʹ�����’s. A leader in engineering education, he developed a fully online Bachelor of Mining Engineering Technology program that expanded access and innovation. He has also helped guide departmental transitions, led accreditation reviews, and managed unique research facilities, all while being a committed mentor. His work has significantly enhanced �ʹ�����’s international reputation, strengthened its academic programs, and supported the success of the broader university community.  

Sandra Murray 
Sandra Murray dedicated 37 years of extraordinary service to �ʹ�����’s, becoming a cornerstone of the Centre for Teaching and Learning. Starting as a receptionist and progressing to impactful leadership, she played a vital role in supporting faculty and staff, advancing teaching excellence, and fostering a rich academic environment benefitting generations of educators and learners alike. She leaves an enduring legacy defined by steadfast dedication, generosity, and an unparalleled support network vital to �ʹ�����’s academic community. 

Ann Tierney, Law’89, MPA’04 
As the Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs from 2011 to 2025, Ann Tierney led one of Canada’s largest student affairs portfolios. Known for advancing student access, inclusion, and well-being through initiatives like need-based awards and food security programs, her leadership has fostered a more equitable and supportive �ʹ�����’s. Her impact also extends nationally through her expertise and advocacy, shaping best practices in student services and contributing broadly to the success and reputation of the institution. 
  
For more information about the reception on Nov. 7 at the Isabel – including how to register – visit the event page.