One of our graduates crossed the stage Wednesday night to receive the prestigious Arbor Award from the University of Toronto to recognize her contributions to volunteerism at the iSchool for the last six years.
Kate MacDonald was chosen for the high profile award to recognize her committed volunteerism as an Executive Board member of the Faculty of Information Alumni Association (FIAA), and for the past few years, as its President.
Immediately after her graduation with a Master of Information Studies in 2009, Kate joined the FIAA as a Director and Secretary, and is still a dedicated volunteer. She has held various roles, including co-chair of social events for the Bertha Bassam Lecture Committee in 2011, and a two-year term as FIAA President for 2013 to 2015.
Besides her full time role as Cataloguing & Digital Services Librarian at the John W. Graham Library, Trinity College, Kate has been a constant force who helps organize and encourage the work of other volunteers—helping us to offer a wide range of programs/events to alumni and students.
Kate has also spearheaded working on an update to the Association by-laws, and organized all of our past year’s files electronically for future FIAA members. She has worked hard to improve representation on the executive to reflect the broad range of streams offered at the Faculty of Information.
A highly dedicated volunteer whose ideas and efforts contribute greatly to FIAA, Kate takes a special interest in students, talking to them about the benefits of the program, presenting at Student Recruitment days. Kate also generously gives her time providing feedback on student resumes.
“Kate stands out as a treasured volunteer for many reasons, key amongst them is her commitment to encouraging other alumni to donate their time and advice to current students. As a tireless advocate for the field of Information studies, Kate is truly deserving of this award. She leads by example,” says iSchool Dean Seamus Ross.
The Arbor Awards were created by the University of Toronto in 1989 to recognize volunteers for their outstanding personal service and substantial contributions of time, energy and expertise to the institution.
Congratulations Kate!
