Recognizing impact at the annual G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Awards

At a ceremony held on May 15 on the eighth floor of Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) Sheldon and Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre, TMU proudly recognized 34 extraordinary alumni and friends whose volunteerism has bolstered the university experience for students, alumni, faculty and staff. Now in its eighth year, the G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Awards celebrates this community service and connection.

More than 100 attendees came together to honour a shared spirit of giving back, including award recipients, their families and TMU leaders.

Speaking to the honourees, TMU Chancellor Donette Chin-Loy Chang reflected on her late husband’s legacy:

“My husband Ray believed in the power of volunteerism and often said, ‘Make a life by believing in yourselves and giving generously from your heart.’ He was also one of the greatest volunteers I have ever known, and my family is so proud that these awards are named for him.”

Known affectionately as “the students’ chancellor” during his tenure from 2006 to 2012, Chang was beloved for his humility, generosity and deep care for student well-being.

This year’s recipients included Gori Bhullar, Business Management ’13, a seasoned management consultant and dedicated alumna who supports career development through storytelling, career advice and alumni engagement. Her Redefining Success: The Work-Life Harmony Series began as a single blog post and evolved into an eight-part series that encourages readers to think holistically about success, joy and self-care.

“When I started having conversations with students and faculty, I realized this is a community that made such an impact on my life,” said Bhullar. “I wanted the chance to do the same for others.”

Also honoured was Marlon Merraro, Social Work ’06, Director, People, Culture, and Diversity at the TTC. A strategist in social equity and justice, he has contributed to TMU through mentorship, panel discussions and community partnerships. Merraro helped establish a case competition for students called the TTC x TMU Social Policy Challenge and continues to serve as a judge and mentor.

“To give is a privilege,” said Merraro. “And so, you have to share that privilege.” Reflecting on his motivation, he added, “I’ve always felt a connection to TMU. I remember professors who helped me understand my journey, and I wanted to do the same for others in my unique capacity.”

TMU leaders, recipients and friends gather at the eighth annual G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Awards.

A legacy of giving back

The G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Awards are named in honour of the late G. Raymond Chang, former TMU chancellor and dedicated philanthropist, who championed equity, access and community engagement throughout his life. This year’s recipients embody those same values, lifting others through mentorship, advocacy and action.

Whether creating space for fun and balance, or opening doors for systemic progress, Bhullar and Merraro exemplify what it means to give back with purpose.

“It’s really up to you,” Bhullar reflected. “You can give as much as you can, and anything you give is probably better than nothing. When you do give, you always get tenfold back.”