By Husam Khder
Outgoing Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Chancellor Janice Fukakusa and philanthropist Mark Bonham were awarded honorary Doctor of Laws degrees during the TMU fall convocation ceremony on Oct. 16. The award honours their achievements and contributions to business, education and diversity.
Fukakusa was honoured for her lifelong commitment to equity and education at the university.
Throughout her six years as chancellor, Fukakusa encouraged diversity and inclusion across campus by leading initiatives which increased support for underrepresented students while championing the expansion of scholarships geared towards promoting equity.
During her speech at the convocation ceremony, Fukakusa reflected on her time spent as chancellor and her long-standing connection to TMU.
“I am very, very proud of my connection to this university, to its mission, and to the community of students, faculty and staff who make TMU so unique and so successful,” she said.
One of her lasting achievements is the Chancellor Janice Fukakusa Racial Justice Scholar in Residence Program, created with her contribution of $1 million. The program aims to advance racial justice at TMU’s Lincoln Alexander School of Law.
In her speech, she encouraged the graduates to stay curious and adaptable as “learning never ends.” Fukakusa reminded the graduates that by embracing their education they can find success in their future endeavors.
Bonham, a Toronto-based entrepreneur, received the award to recognize his extensive work in finance and advocacy for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. During his speech at the convocation ceremony Bonham shared his pride in representing his community.
“As a 2SLGBTQIA+ individual, I am also proud to represent my community with this honour,” he said. “My greatest hope today is that it can set an example…that your own hard work, determination and your unique personal differences will lead to a similar outcome.”
Bonham explained that his journey as an entrepreneur began early, including co-founding Casey House—a Toronto-based healthcare centre that provides help to those living with HIV-AIDS—during a time when such services were heightened. Additionally, he helped to establish homes for 2SLGBTQIA+ adolescents, frequently speaking about the rights and well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
During his speech, Bonham encouraged all graduates to embrace their differences saying, “acknowledge and accept differences in your world. Equality creates opportunity.”
Bonham’s commitment to creating a safe space for marginalized communities and advancing social justice through his initiatives laid the foundation for his recognition.
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