Jean Augustine honoured with Rose Wolfe Distinguished Alumni Award

Jean Augustine, a politician, educator and advocate for social justice who completed her bachelor's and master's degrees in education at the University of Toronto, has been recognized with the U of T Alumni Association's Rose Wolfe Distinguished Alumni Award.

The award celebrates exceptional alumni for outstanding professional achievements, dedication to civic, charitable and social causes, and extraordinary service to the university.

Augustine was first elected to the House of Commons in 1993 in the riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, becoming the first Black woman elected to Canada's parliament. Among her high-profile roles, she served as Minister of State for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women, leading landmark initiatives that include legislation to protect disadvantaged, low-income individuals and the establishment of Black History Month.

Her previous honours at U of T include an honorary degree, an Arbor Award, an ongoing senior fellowship at Massey College and the launch of the Dr. Jean Augustine Professorship in Transformative Education at Victoria University.

“Jean Augustine has inspired and elevated the University of Toronto in countless ways, and she exemplifies our core commitment to inclusive excellence, which empowers talented scholars of all backgrounds to contribute to their full potential,” said U of T President Melanie Woodin. “She is a wonderful addition to the ranks of those who have received the Rose Wolfe Award, among the highest honours for our alumni.”

U of T Chancellor Wes Hall hailed Augustine as "a role model and champion" for members of the Black community. "She didn’t just change the rules, but she rewrote the entire playbook for the Black community and all those underrepresented in positions of power and influence,” said Hall. "We are inspired by her courage and limitless energy as we continue to fight injustice and create opportunity for all members of society."

Read the U of T Alumni announcement