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Alumna Le Dieu Tran Wins Arbor Award

Submitted on Friday, September 16, 2016

tran-postLe Dieu Tran, a 2005 graduate of the Master of Information program, has been recognized for the tremendous impact her work has had on alumni and students at the Faculty of Information over the past five years.

For her dedicated volunteerism, Le Dieu has received the prestigious Arbor Award from the University of Toronto at a September 15 ceremony to pay tribute to those who give their time to help others at the University of Toronto.

In 2011, Le Dieu became a member of the Grants and Awards Committee, and two years later, took on the role as Chair. She is also a Director of the Faculty of Information Alumni Association (FIAA), which meets monthly to offer programming to alumni and students.

“Le Dieu spends many of her personal hours reviewing applications from students eager to present a paper, poster session, or conduct research as part of their studies,” says Jeannie An (’99), President of the Alumni Association. “Each year, she finds new ways to make the process better so it’s fair and easy for everyone to apply.”

Overhauling the review process included introducing online evaluation forms, making it easier for Committee members to assess each application or nomination.

Humbled to receive the award, Le Dieu says “I discovered that I enjoy reviewing applications with others to give away other people’s money,” she jokes.

In 2015, Ms Tran introduced a new Alumni Professional Development Grant to make funds available for graduates to upgrade their skills, to great response from alumni.

Previously, FIAA only offered one grant but depending on funds raised from the Spring Reunion’s Silent Auction, now we will be able to provide an additional grant of up to $500. The FIAA Alumni Professional Development Grant was initiated this year because it recognized there are limited funding programs available to alumni who would like to pursue professional development activities.

For her efforts, initiatives, and enthusiasm, congratulations Le Dieu for earning such a well deserved award.