Pictured from L–R: Nasser Kaddoura, BA’22, Alumni Ambassador Award recipient; Candace Campbell, BA’13, Emerging Leader Award recipient; Darryl King, BA’97, Alumni Award of Distinction recipient; Stephanie Figueiredo, BMOS’23, Alumni Ambassador Award recipient; and Emily Thuss, BA’24, Alumni Ambassador Award recipient.
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Homecoming has always been one of my favourite times of year. It’s a moment when the spirit of King’s truly comes alive. Seeing our alumni, students, faculty, and friends come together on campus each fall is a powerful reminder of what makes this community so special. Whether you joined us for the Homecoming Dinner and Awards Celebration, attended the tailgate and football game, reconnected with classmates off campus, or shared in the excitement on social media, thank you for being part of it.
Staying connected takes many forms. I encourage you to follow along on social media (@KUCAlumni on Facebook and Instagram) or lend your time and expertise as a mentor or volunteer.
This year’s Homecoming was especially meaningful as we recognized the outstanding achievements of our 2025 Alumni Award recipients. Each honouree exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and compassion that define the King’s experience. I was particularly thrilled to celebrate the inaugural recipients of the Alumni Ambassador Award. This new honour recognizes graduates from the past five years who continue to strengthen the King’s community through their enthusiasm and engagement. These emerging leaders remind us that connection to King’s doesn’t end at graduation; it grows richer with time. Read more about this year’s distinguished alumni on page 9.
Staying connected takes many forms. I encourage you to follow along on social media (@KUCAlumni on Facebook and Instagram) or lend your time and expertise as a mentor or volunteer. Every interaction helps sustain the supportive network that makes King’s unique. If you have ideas, experiences, or advice to share with current students, I encourage you to contact the Alumni Office at alumni@kings.uwo.ca to learn more about how you can get involved.
For those who love connecting in person, I’m pleased to announce the return of our King’s Connector event in Toronto, taking place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. This popular networking event brings together alumni from across generations to exchange stories, insights, and build new connections. We’ll be gathering in a new location this year, but you can expect the same great event filled with conversation, camaraderie, and King’s pride. I hope to see many of you there!
As I reflect on the past year, I’m continually inspired by how our alumni community embodies the best of King’s—compassionate leaders, thoughtful citizens, and lifelong learners who continue to make a difference wherever they go. Thank you for keeping the King’s spirit alive through your engagement, your generosity, and your example.
Let’s continue to celebrate one another, support students, and strengthen the bonds that make King’s a place like no other. I look forward to seeing what we accomplish together in the year ahead.
As we turn the page on a new academic year, I am filled with gratitude and optimism for the future of King’s. This fall, we welcomed nearly 1,000 new students, the largest incoming class in our history. Each new student brings with them their hopes, ambitions, and potential. Their decision to study at King’s reaffirms what we already know: the values that define this community — academic excellence, compassion, integrity, and community — remain as vital and relevant as ever. These students represent our shared future, carrying the promise of a King’s education into the world.
That promise is at the heart of our Strategic Plan, Renewing the Promise: King’s 2030. The plan reaffirms our mission as a Catholic liberal arts institution committed to reconciliation, equity, and the formation of the whole person. It calls us to think boldly about how we teach, learn, and serve in a rapidly changing world, that requires not only knowledge and skill, but also wisdom, empathy, and ethical leadership.
At King’s, tradition and innovation coexist. We are investing in learning spaces that reflect the way today’s students live and learn. These improvements are part of a broader vision to ensure King’s remains a place where students thrive intellectually, socially, and personally. To bring this vision to life, we are launching our first capital campaign in more than a decade, focused on renewing classrooms, modernizing residence spaces, and creating a campus that supports the next generation of learners (see page 16 for details).
As we plan for the future, I am reminded that King’s has always been about people: our students, faculty, staff, and, of course, our alumni. You are living proof of the power of a King’s education. Through your leadership, generosity, and service, you embody the values we strive to instill in every student. Your mentorship, engagement, and support ensure that the next generation benefits from the same sense of purpose and possibility that shaped your own time here.
The future is bright for King’s, not just because of its buildings or plans, but because of the enduring spirit of our community. Together, we are forming leaders, strengthening communities, and serving the common good. That is the promise of King’s, which is renewed each day through the lives of those who call this place home.
King’s is proud to recognize two outstanding educators as the 2025 recipients of the King’s Awards of Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Claudia Clausius, Associate Professor of English, and Dr. Lucas Andersen, part-time faculty member in the School of Social Work.
Dr. Clausius received the award for her exceptional contributions as a full-time faculty member, while Dr. Andersen was recognized for his achievements as a part-time instructor.
Dr.ClaudiaClausius
Dr. Claudia Clausius
For Dr. Clausius, the honour is deeply meaningful. “I am humbled to be counted among the previous recipients of this teaching award,” she says.
“My colleagues in the Department of English, French, and Writing have set a high standard in teaching, but it is also their unwavering support and enthusiasm that have kept me excited about our shared mission at King’s.”
A member of the King’s community since 1999, Dr. Clausius first served as Academic Dean before joining the Department of English, French, and Writing as a tenured associate professor. She has coordinated both the Foundations in the New Liberal Arts (since 2012) and the King’s Scholar in the New Liberal Arts program (since 2017).
Her nominators described her as “an extraordinary educator and mentor” whose classes make students feel “valued, heard, and encouraged to grow, both academically and personally.”
Quoting poet W.B. Yeats, she reflects, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” She adds, “That fire is kindled by the intrepid students in the Foundations and King’s Scholar programs. Their intellectual curiosity challenges me to think more deeply, their work ethic fuels my own, and their generosity makes our work a
Dr. Lucas Andersen
Dr.LucasAndersen
A dedicated member of the School of Social Work since 2022, Dr. Andersen brings years of community leadership experience to the classroom. “I am deeply grateful to be the recipient of this award and for the privilege of teaching at King’s,” he says. “The experiences I’ve had with staff and students have been deeply impactful. Teaching here is fun and invigorating—I always look forward to learning alongside our students, who never cease to inspire me.”
Nominators praised Dr. Andersen’s compassionate and engaging approach,
Dr. Josephine Gemson, Associate Academic Dean (Interim), adds: “It’s impossible to overlook the profound impact she has had on her students. Her genuine kindness, tireless support, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting mark on countless lives.”
calling him “a phenomenal professor” and “one of the kindest.” Students highlighted his authenticity, passion for social work, and ability to create a classroom environment that is both supportive and transformative.
INDIGENOUS EDUCATION WILL SAVE THE WORLD HOWINDIGENOUSEDUCATION WILLSAVETHEWORLD
“The only way we’re going to survive is if we commit to each other. We need community,” says Dr. Niigaan Sinclair, award-winning writer and professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba.
Dr. Sinclair’s presentation, “Not the Right Thing to Do. The Only Thing to Do: How Indigenous Education Will Save the World,” opened this year’s 2025-2026 Veritas Lecture Series with the President’s Lecture, generously sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph, on September 22, 2025, in the Kenny Theatre.
Dr. Sinclair’s presentation explored how Indigenous education is vital for reconciliation and for building a more just and hopeful future. Part of the larger Pilgrims of Hope series, which invites our community to reflect on how faith and resilience guide us through pressing questions of our time, Dr. Sinclair offered an Indigenous perspective on hope, responsibility, and community, and delivered a powerful reminder that reconciliation is not abstract. It is lived, practiced, and begins with listening.
As part of his presentation, Dr. Sinclair spoke about the history of Canadian and Indigenous relations. He asked his audience to think deeply about the future of Canada and adopt
In his opening remarks, Dr. Robert Ventresca, King’s President and Professor, said that Dr. Sinclair’s presentation was “a conversation that was not just timely but essential – a conversation that speaks to the heart of who we are as a Catholic institution committed to truth, justice and reconciliation.”
Indigenous teaching will help us as a society, Dr. Sinclair used his father’s phrase,“Get up,” challenging them to think differently, act with courage and commit to the work of reconciliation. “We can be accountable, but we can also be kind,” he told them.
“It is important to our commitment to reconciliation that we have someone like (Dr. Sinclair) on our campus.
He is such a strong, insightful voice for reconciliation,” says Dr. Allyson Larkin, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Social Justice and Peace Studies.
Before his presentation, Dr. Sinclair spent time on King’s and Western’s campuses, visiting the Wampum Lodge and speaking to students. “It was incredible to watch him with our students. I know it was transformative for them,” says Dr. Larkin.
Many King’s students were in the audience as Dr. Sinclair delivered his Veritas Lecture. “We have raised the most competent generation in history,” he said. While giving the students advice on how including
An Anishinaabe from Peguis First Nation, Dr. Sinclair was named one of Canada’s most influential people by Maclean’s in 2022. He co-hosts the podcast, Niigaan and the Lone Ranger, and he is the author of the bestselling Winipek: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre, winner of the 2024 Governor General’s Award for Non-fiction. Dr. Sinclair is the son of the late Senator Murray Sinclair, Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Dr. Sinclair’s work builds on that legacy, offering both challenge and hope for our shared future.
EXPLORING THE EVOLVING DYNAMICS OF CANADA–U.S. RELATIONS
Homecoming Law & Public Policy Symposium
The Law & Public Policy Symposium brought together three accomplished alumni for a timely discussion on one of the most consequential relationships in global politics: Canada–U.S. relations. The event, moderated by Dr. Erin Hannah, Associate Dean of Research and Professor of Politics and International Relations, offered students, alumni, and community members an insider’s look at the forces shaping diplomacy, trade, and economic policy between the two nations.
“This symposium brings King’s alumni back not just as guests, but as thought leaders helping to shape the public conversation,” says Dr. Hannah. “Events like this create a vital bridge between the classroom and the real world.”
This year’s panel featured Monika Surma, BA’97, MA’98, Government of Canada Executive and Senior Policy Consultant; Peter Wilkinson, BA’79, former Chief of Staff to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Canada; and Tingting Zhang, BA’16, Junior Policy Analyst with the C.D. Howe Institute. Each panellist brought unique insights drawn from careers spanning international diplomacy, policy development, and economic strategy.
The discussion opened with a look at the current state of Canada–U.S. relations. The panellists explored how, though strong and deeply interdependent, the partnership is constantly tested by shifting global power dynamics, trade tensions, and domestic political changes on both sides of the border.
A key part of the conversation focused on shared economic challenges, including labour shortages, immigration policy, and aging populations. The panellists also underscored the importance of diversification, encouraging Canada to expand its trade relationships and global partnerships to strengthen resilience and reduce reliance on the U.S. market.
Looking to the future, the panel examined emerging areas of collaboration and potential flashpoints that could define the next decade. Topics such as climate change and the Arctic were identified as issues where national priorities could diverge.
Following the discussion, students took the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), environmental policy, and the evolving geopolitical role of the Arctic. Their engagement reflected the symposium’s very purpose—to connect academic inquiry with real-world policy debates. The evening concluded with a networking reception where alumni, faculty, and students continued the conversation.
When Darryl King arrived at King’s more than 30 years ago, he didn’t know that a single decision—an admissions vote decided two-to-one in his favour—would shape the course of his life. “Even the smallest margin of one can have a massive, long-term, positive impact,” he says. Today, King is Executive Director of Logikor Inc., a multinational logistics firm with operations across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong. His career spans nearly three decades in transportation and logistics, but his success, he says, is not defined by titles or profit margins. Instead, it’s rooted in humility, perseverance, and faith.
“Pride goes before destruction,” he says, quoting Proverbs 16:18, a verse that guides his view of both leadership and life. “I accept this award with humility, not for myself alone, but on behalf of many others—my family, my colleagues, my employees, this school, and most of all, God.”
That humility has shaped every part of his journey, including his deep and ongoing connection to King’s. His leadership gift to the Student Life Centre Campaign, which named the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre, stands as a lasting testament to his belief in giving others the same chance he was once given. “At first, I thought it was strange for my name to be on the building,” he admits. “But then I realized that maybe this is a reminder that alumni can continue to support their institution. It’s important that we all give back.”
talks and mentorship, speaking about entrepreneurship, the value of the humanities, and the lessons that build good leaders. “The professors at King’s modelled leadership of the highest order,” he says. “They didn’t just teach facts; they taught us how to think, how to lead, and how to live with integrity.”
fitHe often reflects on the formative values that shaped his time at King’s—faith, diligence, humility, and personal responsibility—and how those principles continue to guide him in an increasingly uncertain world. For King, knowledge matters, but it is wisdom that endures.
As he looks ahead, his message is simple but powerful: success is fleeting, but goodness stands the test of time.
“My prayer is that every student who walks out of this [University] becomes the next success story, the next example of what faith, perseverance, and purpose can achieve, across an entire lifetime of good works.”
At first, I thought it was strange for my name to be on the building,” he admits. “But then I realized that maybe this is a reminder that alumni can continue to support their institution. It’s important that we all give back.”
For Candace (Campbell) Rabkin, BA’13, King’s was more than a place to study. It was where she found her confidence, her community, and the foundation for a career defined by purpose.
Growing up in Dutton, Ontario, Rabkin chose King’s for its smaller size and welcoming atmosphere. “Coming from a rural town, the idea of attending university felt daunting,” she says. “But King’s provided the perfect balance of a close-knit community with smaller class sizes, while still offering the full university experience.”
That combination of challenge and support shaped both her academic and personal growth. She spent long nights studying in the library, where group projects turned into friendships and laughter broke up marathon work sessions. “It wasn’t really about the grades or the late nights,” she reflects.
“It was about perseverance, teamwork, and the ability to push through challenges. Those lessons have stayed with me far beyond campus.”
As Director of U.S. Sales at Nuts For Cheese, Rabkin has played a key role in the company’s explosive growth, leading its U.S. expansion and securing more than $500,000 in grant
funding for innovation and export development. She also leads the company’s Culture and Pride Committees, ensuring that inclusion and purpose remain central to its success.
A passionate mentor, Rabkin regularly returns to King’s and other campuses to speak with students, lead panels, and guide young professionals. She has hired and supported dozens of interns since 2018, often continuing to mentor them well beyond their placements. “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room,” she says. “It’s about showing up, staying committed, and finding joy in the journey.”
Rabkin remains close with many of the connections she made at King’s, noting that all of her bridesmaids were King’s graduates. “Three of them I met right here on campus,” she laughs. “The friendships we built at King’s have lasted more than a decade.”
She credits her professors for helping her discover new passions and possibilities. “Dr. Hunter, Dr. Werstein, and Dr. Rae each made a lasting impact,” she says. “They went above and beyond to create meaningful experiences for their students.”
Named one of London’s 20 Under 40 by London Inc. in 2025, Rabkin continues to embody the values she learned at King’s: compassion, curiosity, and service to others. “If I can be considered an Emerging Leader,” she says, “it’s only because of the roots I built here. I hope to give back and support the next generation of King’s students the way this community has supported me.”
Emily Thuss embodies the spirit of ethical leadership and service. During her studies in Childhood and Youth Studies and English, she served as a teaching assistant, Vice President, Finance for the King’s Children’s Association, and volunteered with the Children’s Aid Society. Now in law school at the University of Windsor, Emily continues to pursue knowledge and social justice with the same dedication she displayed as a student. Her mentorship, leadership, and service have positively impacted children, families, and her peers, demonstrating the lasting influence of a King’s education. Emily’s commitment to empowering others makes her a true Alumni Ambassador.
Nasser Kaddoura, BA’22
NasserKaddoura,BA'22
“King’s gave me the chance to see my potential, and now I aim to help others see theirs.”
Nasser has distinguished himself as a leader, innovator, and mentor. As a paramedic with Middlesex-London Paramedic Services, he has introduced new training programs, embraced technology, and championed inclusivity within his profession. He also teaches professional issues at Fanshawe College and volunteers to educate young workers about their rights. Drawing on his experiences as the child of first-generation immigrants, Nasser strives to inspire others to realize their potential. His professional achievements, mentorship, and commitment to community exemplify the spirit of the Alumni Ambassador Award and demonstrate how leadership and service can create lasting change.
Stephanie Figueiredo, BMOS’23
StephanieFigueiredo, BMOS'23
“Opportunity isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you create.”
Stephanie’s time at King’s was defined by initiative and dedication.
As President of the King’s EconoMath Society (KEMS) and BMOS Faculty Student Representative on the Students’ Council, she helped launch new events, secure funding, and celebrate student achievements. Her leadership revitalized campus clubs post-pandemic, fostering connection and community across the School of Management, Economics, and Mathematics. Since graduating, Stephanie continues to give back, participating in panels, mentoring student leaders, and sharing professional insights. Her energy, expertise, and generosity make her a true Alumni Ambassador, empowering students to seize opportunities and create meaningful experiences.
This year’s Homecoming was another unforgettable celebration with alumni, students, faculty, and friends gathering on and off campus to share memories, celebrate achievements, and create new moments together.
The weekend featured traditions like the Alumni Awards Ceremony and the alwayspopular tailgate and Mustang football game. Panels and gatherings showcased the impact of King’s alumni across industries and generations, while casual reunions reminded us of the friendships and experiences that make King’s feel like home.
Brock Barber, BMOS’25 (finance and administration), was a third-year student out for drinks with friends when one casual question—”What’s your best business idea?”—set him and classmate Christian Cuzzocrea, HBA’25 (Ivey Business School), on their journey to launch Būz Shoes.
“Everyone our age wears the same few pairs of white shoes when going out,” Barber laughs. “They’re expensive, easy to ruin, and not built for a student budget. We wanted to create something affordable, waterproof, and stylish—shoes built by students, for students.”
The name Būz Shoes is a clever play on words. It combines both founders’ last names and nods to the idea of “going-out shoes.” The company’s mission is simple: deliver quality sneakers at half the price of big brands while building a community-driven, student-focused brand.
“We sell direct to customers online, so we can keep the price at around $70 without cutting quality,” Barber explains. “It’s not about cheap shoes, it’s about cutting out the middleman and having minimal overhead.”
Under his leadership, KEA grew to more than 100 members and hosted events that connected students with successful alumni. Those conversations, Barber says, inspired him to take action.
“Every speaker said the same thing: just start. You won’t have all the answers, but that’s okay. That really pushed me to try.”
He also credits King’s professors and alumni mentors for shaping his mindset, especially Professor Sergio Janczak, whose course on Entrepreneurial Thinking encouraged him to view challenges differently, and alumni Helen and Matt Smith (Roo + You), who continue to offer guidance and support.
Balancing school, work, and a startup was no small feat. Late nights, countless calls with manufacturers, and learning everything from web design to supply chain logistics have tested his limits—but also taught him valuable lessons.
“I’ve learned that being anxious or nervous doesn’t mean something’s wrong,” he reflects. “It just means I’m doing something new and that’s usually a good thing.”
“I keep the two parts of my life separate,” he says. “From nine to five, I’m focused on accounting. After that, it’s all about Būz Shoes.”
What'snextforBuzShoes?
What’s next for Būz Shoes?
After officially launching this fall, Barber and Cuzzocrea are well on their way to achieving their immediate goals: selling out the first model of their shoe and building a strong online community through creative, student-driven marketing.
“People want to be part of something real,” Barber says. “When they see two 24-year-olds taking on the shoe industry, it makes them want to support it.”
“Do your research, build your skills, and find people who believe in you. You’ll never feel 100% ready, but start anyway. You’ll figure it out as you go.”
Want to check out Būz Shoes? Visit buzshoes.ca and follow @buzshoes on Instagram and TikTok.
Was it just a coincidence that within days of Canada’s Liberal government announcing Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, the Trump administration released its long-anticipated travel ban?
Perhaps. But the timing also highlights the long shared border saga between Canada and the U.S., and should compel Canada to carve its own path.
Like Trump’s 2017 travel ban, his 2025 directives significantly prevent or limit access to the U.S. for citizens from 12 mostly African and Middle Eastern countries. While those measures will likely face court challenges, Canada’s Bill C-2 could impose longer-lasting consequences.
Dataprivacyconcerns
Data privacy concerns
Days before Trump’s announcement, the Canadian government advanced the controversial Strong Borders Act covering a wide swath of proposed legislative changes, from intensified border security measures to more restrictive immigration and asylum policies. Embedded within the proposed legislation, as Canadian law professor Michael Geist and others have pointed out, are significant risks to digital privacy, along with increased executive authority — also known as “warrantless” powers — without judicial or civilian oversight.
attentionisgiventoCanada's deep-rootedcoordinationwiththe U.S.onbordermanagement a relationshipthatoftenleavesCanada appeasingAmericansecurity demands.Theperiodfollowing9/11 isworthnoting.
attention is given to Canada’s deep-rooted coordination with the U.S. on border management — a relationship that often leaves Canada appeasing American security demands. The period following 9/11 is worth noting.
Increased coordination post 9/11
Increasedcoordinationpost9/11
Post 9/11, Canada signed a series of agreements that transformed its border institutions and policies. The Smart Border Declaration, signed shortly after 9/11, and Beyond the Border, inked a decade later, increased surveillance, biometric tracking, and information sharing, creating joint enforcement teams such as the Shiprider program and the Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET). New agencies, including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), emerged, and CBSA agents were authorized to carry firearms. Many of these measures while driven by American pressure, remained distinctly Canadian.
The narrative of co-operative and collaborative Canada-U.S. border management, is not always as it appears. Frequently, negotiations and co-operation are difficult, and not without periodic costs to some autonomy in Canada’s border management.
Following Trump’s 2017 policies and the surge in crossings at Roxham Road, concerns over the potential increases in asylum claims are once again shaping Canadian legislation. Bill C-2 would require migrants to file for asylum within 14 days of arrival, or face deportation without a hearing. It’s troubling to contemplate deporting asylum seekers amid the ongoing deportation spectacle in the U.S. being carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement during the Trump administration.
But that doesn’t preclude the need to think critically about the sweeping powers proposed in Bill C-2. Enhanced executive powers — in many cases exercised by institutions with no civilian oversight — must be scrutinized.
In the long Canada-U.S. relationship, coercion sometimes masquerades as co-operation. There are fewer coincidences in border policy than we might think, possibly including the timing of the Strong Border Act. But Canada must always evaluate its policies in terms of whether they serve Canadian, not American, interests.
For generations, King’s has been more than a place to study; it’s been a place to belong. Alumni often recall late-night study sessions in residence lounges, the friendships forged in classrooms, and the sense of community that made campus feel like home. Those spaces shaped who our students were then—and now, they must evolve to support who our students are today.
As universities across the country invest in modern, tech-enabled environments, King’s faces an important crossroads. Our classrooms and residences have served us well for decades, but time has taken its toll. Desks are crowded, outlets are scarce, and once-vibrant spaces now need renewal to match the excellence of our teaching and the energy of our students.
Modernization at King’s is about more than aesthetics—it’s about ensuring our physical spaces reflect the same warmth, inclusivity, and innovation that define our community. It’s about giving students places that inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.
Over the decades, residence life has provided students with a first taste of independence and a sense of belonging. Residence modernization will bring that spirit to a new generation by transforming 40 rooms into “super singles,” adding bright, functional study areas, and creating comfortable lounges where friendships can take root. These
the pursuit of the common good. Today, that legacy continues through those who choose to invest in the future of King’s.
King’s classrooms have always been places of discovery, where professors ignite curiosity and students find their voices. By introducing flexible layouts, improved accessibility, and integrated technology, we’ll turn these spaces into dynamic, collaborative learning environments. Students will engage more deeply, work together creatively, and prepare for a rapidly changing world.
Every gift helps transform classrooms and residences into inspiring, sustainable spaces that will serve students for decades to come. Together, we can ensure that future generations will feel the same sense of belonging and pride that has defined King’s since its beginning.
Peer institutions have already modernized their campuses, and we cannot afford to fall behind. Prospective students and their families look for spaces that signal a university’s commitment to innovation and well-being. Modernization ensures that King’s remains competitive, attracting bright minds and nurturing their potential.
The King’s community has thrived because alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends have believed in what this place stands for— excellence in learning, inclusion, and
This is our moment to build on the past, to honour the memories that shaped us, and to create modern, functional spaces that support academic success, personal growth, and a vibrant campus life.
On Sunday, October 24, 1982, the Silverwood Building was officially opened as the South Campus of King’s College. An open house and blessing followed the opening ceremonies.
The house was built in 1935 as the residence of Mr. James D. Good, the Vice-President of Supertest Petroleum Corporation. During World War II, the house was remodelled to accommodate British evacuee children. In 1950, James D. Good died in the house at the age of sixty-two.
In 1951, the University of Western Ontario purchased the Good residence to house the UWO School of Business Administration. Since funds for the purchase were drawn from the Silverwood Foundation, the
house, which was originally known as “Goodholme,” was renamed the Silverwood Building. In 1957, the Business School moved back to the main campus. The next occupant was the Music Teacher’s College. Then, in 1968, the building became home to the University of Western Ontario Conservatory of Music.
Seven years later, King’s College purchased the main buildings and one-fifth of the land from UWO. The following year, King’s began leasing the Silverwood Building to the Law Society of Upper Canada. However, student enrolment at King’s increased greatly over the next few years. The College’s main building, originally designed for 400 students, could not accommodate the present enrollment of 1,300. Therefore, King’s terminated its agreement with the Law Society and began plans for using the building itself.
In the summer of ‘82, the inside of the mansion was reconstructed.
The Silverwood Building is now used for classrooms and faculty offices. Because of its unique, carefully preserved character, the addition of the Good/Silverwood house represents more for King’s College than a solution to a “space” problem. The College is now the proud owner of an architectural landmark, soon to be designated by the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Council, under the Ontario Heritage Act.
The Canadian Register of Historic Places (CRHP) formally recognized “Goodholme” on July 4, 1983, describing it as a two-and-a-halfstorey stone, timber and stucco residence in the Tudor Revival style of architecture. The building was renamed Dante Lenardon Hall in 1992 to honour Dr. Dante Lenardon, a highly respected professor who taught French and Italian at King’s for 47 years.
Share your milestones (job, marriage, birth announcements, etc.) in the next issue of the King’s Herald by emailing your news to alumni@kings.uwo.ca or by completing the online form kings.uwo.ca/alumni/address-update Photos are welcome, space permitting.
Paul McDonnell, BA’62, obtained his PhD at the University of Toronto in 1967. He was a professor of Psychology at the University of New Brunswick for 32 years. His research focused on infant and child development, and he maintained a private practice in clinical child psychology for about 20 years. His specialization was in children with developmental disabilities. He has three wonderful adult children who are making unique and valued contributions to our world. He and his wife, Elizabeth, are very proud of them and their grandchildren. Paul loved his years at King’s College and the many friends he met there.
Heather (Schwartz) Slapack, BA’80, is supply teaching for the York Region District School Board. She has a daughter, a son and two grandchildren.
Denyse Gervais Regan, BA’82, wrote two books, The 13th One and The LUCKY Thirteenth One, which are stories about her large French-Canadian family, of which she’s the thirteenth child. Her play, The Thirteenth One, was produced at Blyth Festival in 2005.
Frank Lambert, BA’92, MLIS’02, PhD’08, married Keri Lambert (BSc’00 Western) in 1993. They welcomed their daughter, Daevlynne Burnett, in 2005, and their son, Reginald Lee, in 2007. In 2008, he became an Assistant Professor with the School of Library and Information Science at Kent State University. In 2016, he became an Assistant Professor in the Master of Library Science (MLS) Program at Middle Tennessee State University, before serving as Program Director from 2017-2023. In 2023, he was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor.
Michael Lawless, BA’02, was named to Billboard Canada’s 2025 Power Players list, ranking among the most powerful and influential people in the music industry. He is Head of Apple Music and Apple Podcasts Canada, overseeing business strategy and editorial operations.
Peter Fragiskatos, BA’04, was reelected as Member of Parliament for London Centre in the 2025 federal election. In June 2025, he was appointed by Prime Minister Mark Carney to serve as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Matt Wilson, BA’06, was appointed as a partner of Siskinds LLP in March 2025. He is a real estate lawyer and the head of Siskinds’ real estate department, with a practice focusing on residential, commercial, and complex real estate transactions, land development, and mortgage financing.
Sidonio Rolo, BA’06, has worked at Teen Challenge Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre for the past 17 years as a Certified Addictions Counselor and was recently promoted to Director of the program. He was married in 2011 and has three children, one biological, one adopted, and one fostered. He is grateful for the education that King’s College provided for him.
Samantha Pearson, BA’07, retired from the role of Manager, Administrative Affairs in the Office of the Vice-President and Academic Dean at King’s University College on May 2, 2025.
Julia Wagner, BA’06, has a child, Oak Pattenden, who is in Grade 2.
Carlen Costa, BA’08, and Christopher Montanini, BA’08, are engaged to be married in fall 2026. They have fond memories of their time at King’s, where both served on Students’ Council and as Sophs.
Ryan Gauss, BA’08, was appointed Director, Stakeholder Relations (Office of the CEO) with London Hydro in May 2025. He previously served as Chief of Staff to MP Peter Fragiskatos (BA’04). Ryan was also elected as chairperson of the London Police Service Board.
Nicholas McMillan, BA’10, is a police officer. He is married and had his first child in June.
Rebecca (Neufert) Kliza, BA’14, has worked as Managing Director and VP of Client Success, gaining deep insights into various industries over the past decade. She founded Becca Jules & Co. to blend professionalism with a fun, engaging approach. Her goal is to foster true collaboration and deliver expertise and tools that scale with your business.
Rachel (Bell) Francis, BA’19, married her husband Jeffery at Cambridge Mill in November 2024. They met at Western, and most of their wedding party were people who attended Western as well. They love the community of support they made during their undergraduate years.
Deyi Li, BA’20, published My Guardian AI: Sentient Steed, Book 1 of the Postapocalyptic War Between AI and Zombie Survival Series. It is available on Amazon.
