An Empowering Legacy that Endures
Schulich MBA student Melissa Paglialunga, MBA/JD Candidate Class of 2023 holds the distinction of receiving the Carol Anne Letheren Women’s MBA Award for the academic year 2022-2023. The award was established to honour the memory of Carol Anne Letheren (MBA ’77) whose untimely passing on February 1, 2001 left the entire Schulich and York community in deep sadness and shock.
Ms. Letheren lived a life of purpose and public service. She was President of the Schulich International Alumni Association and was instrumental in the inauguration of the School’s first international chapter in Hong Kong – a global alumni network that now has over 90 chapters in 60 countries. A proud Canadian and supporter of Canadian athletes, she was former CEO and Secretary General of the Canadian Olympic Association.
Ms. Letheren’s legacy lives on with the recognition and empowerment of the next generation of women leaders like Melissa through the award established in Ms. Letheren’s name funded from a bequest left in her will. The Carol Anne Letheren Women’s MBA Award is given each year to a second year full-time female MBA student who have a minimum average of B+ and demonstrate financial need.
“I am tremendously honoured in receiving this award, especially since it is given annually to female students in the MBA program. Financial awards can help students, like me, continue with and dedicate more time to their studies,” said Melissa.
Melissa is in the final year of her joint MBA/JD program and is interested in pursuing corporate law after graduation. She describes her Schulich student experience as engaging and inclusive, crediting the School for providing her with an excellent foundation to kickstart her career. “The incredible professors have taught me the key concepts and ideas that I will need to converse meaningfully with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. In addition, I have learned how to think critically and examine gaps when problem solving. Finally, Schulich has provided me with a network of individuals who will continue to help my development after graduating.”
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