GH Women of Distinction

Ashnaa Narumathan, a fourth-year Kinesiology student, was nominated for a Women of Distinction recognition by fellow students, academic leaders, and staff from U of GH because of the way she inspires others through her passion for science and technology. Her peers notice that she approaches every interaction with empathy and professionalism, and always has a willingness to go above and beyond. She’s a valuable team member, a mentor to her peers, and volunteer within the community.

“I hope my recognition serves as a reminder that success is not solely about reaching a specific goal, but about the lessons you learn on your journey, the people you meet, and the personal growth you experience along the way,” she said.

Narumathan has been an active participant in various extracurricular activities at U of GH, including in the Pre-Med and Kinesiology societies, as a Peer Assisted Study Session leader, as a research assistant in SERC-GC, as a participant in the Agora Fellowships, and through educating students about Artificial Intelligence with the AI Hub. As well, she’s worked as a Student Information Officer, a Student Transition and Resource Team Leader, a Learning Support Peer, and as a Computer Support Assistant on campus.    

When she’s not studying or contributing to the fabric of the University’s tight-knit community, she spends her time tutoring young students at Kumon, assisting the City of Toronto to develop a curriculum to teach children about scientific concepts, volunteering for a variety of organizations such as the Canadian Blood Services, West Park Healthcare Centre, and Fit for Life Rehabilitation Clinic, and participating in research at York University on muscular dystrophy.  

“When women’s voices are uplifted and recognized, it empowers them to continue contributing to actionable change. It shows us that we are heard and valued, but also fosters a sense of community and encourages others to take similar action,” Narumathan said. “Success is defined by your ability to preserve, adapt, and have the courage to pave a path forward…It only takes one individual to spark meaningful change and be a leader within their community.” 

Kelly Skinner, Staff Superintendent with the Toronto Police Service (TPS) and a “proud” Justice & Public Safety alum, was nominated for her ability to inspire through her leadership, having served with the force for over 25 years. She has been a trailblazer for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in police leadership.  

She is also the first Black woman to be promoted to the rank of Staff Superintendent in the Toronto Police Service, exemplifying her impact in the community, as a mentor, and as a champion for equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB).

“Empowering women to speak up and lead helps to break down systemic barriers and challenge stereotypes, in whatever field they may find themselves in,” Superintendent Skinner said.

Moreover, she was honoured by TPS with the second annual Trailblazer Award this February during Black History Month. Members of the Service spoke highly of her impacts on the community and as an inspiring mentor to fellow officers.

The positions she has held throughout her career require exceptional leadership and management skills, and Superintendent Skinner has proven she shines as a policing leader. She has moved through major squads of the Service including investigation of serious violent crimes, drug investigations, and the gathering of gang intelligence.  

“Women bring diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich decision-making processes and foster more inclusive solutions. I see examples every day of how being a woman who has a position of leadership in my organization has a positive impact on my interactions and partnerships within the community,” she added.

Dr. Laelie Snook, an instructor for U of GH’s Kinesiology program, received nominations because of the innovation she brings to her teaching, and for her impactful research that has redefined standards of excellence in the program and within the human health and nutritional sciences.  

Dr. Snook empowers her students in the classroom, has an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge, inspires future generations, and is making a lasting difference in her discipline.

“As an instructor, I strive to support students, provide them with positive feedback, and help them realize their potential. I don't do what I do for recognition, but recognition validates the extra effort required to be who I want to be in the classroom,” she said.

Additionally, through her research, Dr. Snook has addressed teaching challenges, including through collaborating on a research project called “Incorporating higher order thinking and deep learning in a large, lecture-based human physiology course: can we do it?”. Plus, she has introduced transformative initiatives to U of GH’s Kinesiology program, including helping others understand how to harness the power of artificial intelligence and use it responsibly, which enhances everyone’s learning experience, and fosters a culture of academic excellence and integrity.  

“She is an inspiration in her field and is evidently passionate about what she does – constantly supporting the school at events like Science Rendezvous and representing the kinesiology program at the Ontario Universities Fair (OUF). She shares her knowledge and love for science with the community at Science Rendezvous, while sharing her expertise in the kinesiology field at OUF, inspiring prospective students,” one of her nominators, Rita Yacoub said, who is a fourth-year Kinesiology student.  

Second-year Psychology student Paulina Sieczka was nominated because of the kindness she shows her peers and for her significant volunteer contributions in giving back to the community as a passionate mental health advocate. She remains active in the Guelph-Humber community as a participant in Psych Society, too.  

Sieczka creates meaningful connections with youth through her volunteer efforts. She has volunteered with Kids Help Phone where she provides crisis response, as an ambassador for Cam’s Kids, and for the Nativity of Our Lord Parish as a camp counsellor. Plus, she champions promoting inclusivity; she’s shown support for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth during Pride month during the Toronto Pride Parade in 2024.

Her leadership skills are admirable within the Church, planning fun retreats for youth and assisting in the management of the Youth Ministry’s Instagram account to keep families informed about upcoming events at the parish.

“I hope my recognition reminds other women that someone’s perception of who you are does not define what you are capable of achieving. Our voice and our actions are the two most important and powerful tools we have – they uplift, empower, and strengthen our community, ensuring others feel seen and heard,” Sieczka said. 

Alumni Advancement Coordinator Sandra Fazio was nominated for the incredible inspiration and engagement she sparks among students and alumni. She has been instrumental in shaping the Guelph-Humber alumni community and the lives of our future graduates through her dedicated efforts.

“I hope my career journey serves as a reminder to other women that they can drive positive change by trusting in their transferable skills and embracing the ideology that learning is lifelong,” Fazio said. “I believe that true leadership is not defined by a title but rather by supporting and inspiring those around us, which fosters a ripple effect of empowerment.”

Regarded as a “pillar of strength and care” by her colleagues, Fazio was key to launching the Alumni Ambassador Council, new for the 2024-2025 academic year. It engages dedicated alumni representatives to raise the University’s profile with a regular presence at school events, where they can showcase their unique career paths and unite other alumni.

“I truly wish that everyone could have a Sandra in their life to feel the encouragement in shaping their own future and community – someone who inspires you to reach your potential, achieve your goals and feel supported,” Fazio’s nominator Kirsten Knowles said. 

Susan Thomas, Department Head, Student Services, received her nomination because of her commitment to students’ success. Whether it’s positively supporting staff with an open door and an open mind, or being there for students during challenging times, she enriches the Guelph-Humber community through her empathetic approach to leadership.

“While I hope that something about my career or leadership journey will resonate, I mostly hope to encourage and support other women wherever they are in their own path. Each woman recognized is different and I hope that all women recognize their unique strengths and the value they bring to U of GH every day,” Thomas shared. “We need to share and amplify the work women do more often because all women deserve to be seen and recognized for their accomplishments.”

Thomas has been instrumental in a lot of U of GH’s innovative services, from being a driving force in developing the Food Security Program, overseeing pivotal changes to the milestone convocation ceremony (moving it to a larger venue to include more of students’ loved ones), and she serves as one of the Student Advisory Committee leads with Student Services, informing the University’s programming and service delivery to students. Also, she facilitated the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey to get a snapshot looking into student wellness at Guelph-Humber.  

“[Susan’s] commitment to the professional growth and development of her team is unwavering. She fosters a culture of motivation and appreciation, making sure to celebrate the little moments that build team morale, such as recognizing National Fun Day, Staff Appreciation Day, and organizing pre-holiday celebrations with treats. These small but significant gestures create an intangible yet powerful sense of unity,” Caroline Samrah-Sergnese, one of Thomas’ nominators, said. 

• Dr. Leslie Auger, Program Head, Kinesiology 
• Aalima Chandiwala, fourth-year Business student 
• Alyson Green, Academic Advisor, Early Childhood Studies 
• Dr. Laura MacDiarmid, Assistant Professor, Justice Studies 
• Tenisha Noel, fourth-year Justice Studies student
• Maya Marcus and Megan Roopnarine, Media and Communication Studies alumni 2021