Schulich Celebrates Global Alumni Achievements
Over 200 Schulich alumni and friends gathered on October 29, 2025, to celebrate the 📸 2025 Alumni Recognition Awards 📸 presented by TD Insurance. The evening brought together our vibrant alumni network to honour four exceptional graduates whose achievements in executive leadership, career progression, public contribution, and innovation & entrepreneurship continue to inspire us all. From walking the red carpet to unforgettable moments on stage, the event was an evening filled with celebration, inspiration, and Schulich pride.
The program was emceed by Fotini Iconomopoulos (MBA ’05) and Keith Loo (MBA ’12), who brought their Schulich pride and infectious energy to the stage, guiding the audience through an inspiring evening of recognition and connection.
“What makes tonight’s event even more special is that it takes place during the School’s 60th Anniversary year – an extraordinary milestone for the Schulich community celebrating a diamond legacy of innovation and impact, which we are leveraging to launch the next exciting chapter in the School’s history,” said Dean Detlev Zwick. “The Alumni Recognition Awards are one of our most cherished traditions – a time when the Schulich community comes together to celebrate the career success of our alumni. This evening is also one of my favourite events of the year. It captures the essence of what Schulich stands for – excellence, leadership, generosity and impact.”
This year’s honourees included:
- Outstanding Executive Leadership Award: Sasha Krstic (IMBA ’03), Executive Vice President, Security Solutions at Mastercard. Sasha has led enterprise-wide cybersecurity integration initiatives, spanning global leadership roles from Canada to Asia Pacific to the Nordic/Baltic regions, bringing authenticity and purpose to her leadership.
- Outstanding Progress & Achievement Award: Michael O. Lewis (MBA ’09), Managing Partner, Financial Services at Amrop, and Founder/CEO of CareerNPV. Michael has combined two decades of global executive-search and banking experience with strong commitments to philanthropy and mentorship.
- Outstanding Public Contribution Award: Dr. Eileen de Villa (MBA ’03), former Medical Officer of Health for the City of Toronto (2017-2024). Dr. de Villa led the city’s public-health initiatives, from its COVID-19 response to long-term health policy and emergency preparedness, serving Toronto’s more than three million residents.
- Outstanding Innovation & Entrepreneurship Award: Chris Ye (BBA ’08), Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Uken Games. Chris helped build one of Canada’s leading independent game studios—with over 60 million downloads worldwide—successfully navigating a nine-figure acquisition and continuing to invest in emerging tech ventures.
“As Schulich marks its 60th Anniversary, we’re reminded that our alumni community is the heart of that legacy,” said Christina Niederwanger, Executive Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement. “Their success stories bring to life six decades of excellence and impact — and inspire the next generation of Schulich leaders.”
Submissions for the 2026 Alumni Recognition Awards are now open. Special thanks to our Presenting sponsor TD Insurance and Award Presenter sponsor Manulife for their commitment to innovation and student success. To nominate a candidate, please visit: https://alumni.schulich.yorku.ca/events/alumni-recognition-awards-nomination-form/.
