The Dean’s Student Leadership Award recognizes the outstanding co- and extra-curricular leadership of our 1L and 2L students and values both traditional and non-traditional forms of leadership, including:
- Contribution to a sense of community at U of T Law;
- Leadership related to equity and diversity at the law school and/or in the legal community;
- Leadership on U of T Law committees, clubs, organizations, journals and/or student government;
- Encouragement of fellow students to become involved in co-curricular and/or extra-curricular activities.
“It is wonderful to have so many accomplished students shortlisted for the Dean’s Leadership Awards,” said Dean and University Professor Jutta Brunnée, James Marshall Tory Dean’s Chair. "We congratulate the recipients who help shape our extraordinary community.”
The recognized students are now in their next year of study.
The Dean’s Student Leadership Award recipients 2023/24 are:
Maria Bon
Maria is dedicated to helping students foster connections and thrive within the law school community. As a 1L Representative on the Students’ Law Society (SLS), Maria co-founded the Friendship Sub-Committee and helped launch the bi-weekly Board Game Buddies event, which created opportunities for students to connect and build relationships. Maria also advocated for students on the Dean’s Clinical and Experiential Education Committee. Maria will continue her leadership as VP, Academic on SLS.
Alicia Corbiere
Alicia, of Anishnaabe and Mohawk descent, is deeply committed to Indigenous advocacy at the Faculty of Law. As the 2023 Camp Leader for the Anishinaabe Law Camp, Alicia worked closely with Professor John Borrows, The Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law, to promote cultural learning. She serves as an Associate Editor for the Indigenous Law Journal and a student representative on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Implementation Committee. Alicia's leadership within the Indigenous Law Students' Association (ILSA) will continue as co-president for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Brynne Dalmao
Brynne has been a natural leader since her 1L year, contributing to the law school community as an orientation leader, member of student governance, and volunteer moot coach. She plays pivotal roles in the Student Law Society (SLS) and the University of Toronto Faculty of Law Review. Brynne is highly respected for her support of fellow students, whether offering advice on balancing school and life or providing recruitment tips through CDO initiatives. Her compassionate leadership has left a lasting impact on the community.
Chelsea Musanhu
Chelsea’s dedication to advancing EDI initiatives has been evident through her work on the Dean's EDI Committee and her volunteer placement at the Black Legal Action Centre, where she worked on a legal primer on defamation and social media advocacy. She also served as a 1L representative on the Students' Law Society and completed mindfulness training to support student wellness. Chelsea will continue her leadership as the VP, Student Life for the SLS.
Samir Reynolds
Samir has shown unwavering dedication to the academic and personal success of his peers through his work with the Academic Success Program, where he serves as both tutor and coordinator. He has also contributed by organizing and working as a mentor in the Peer Mentorship Program (PMP) and by leading multiple working groups through the Future of Law Lab. Samir's commitment to fostering a supportive academic environment makes him a valued leader within the law school.
Recipients will be invited to a lunch with the Dean and will receive a special certificate recognizing their accomplishment.
Photos courtesy of the awardees.
