The Robert Sutherland Prize is presented annually to a graduating and self-defined student of colour who has shown leadership and initiative at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥, most specifically in the area of anti-racism and anti-oppression in the aim of crating a more inclusive campus climate.
This year's recipient of the Robert Sutherland Prizes was awarded to Dev Aransevia. Dev is a Global Development Studies graduate in the Class of 2017.
As a co-chair of the Principal's Implementation Committee on Racism, Diversity and Inclusion (PICRDI), Dev has worked tirelessly to examine the complex and sensitive issue of racism at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥. In every one of the 2-3 weekly meetings, Dev presented a zeal for positive change on campus and went above and beyond the call of duty, meeting with administration, student leaders, and students alike to help assemble a plan to make ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ more inclusive.
Dev's commitment to anti-oppression work reaches beyond PICRDI as well. As a member of the ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ Black Academic Society and the African Caribbean Student Association, she has been an active part of discussions around every day and systemic barriers against ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ students of colour, particularly in the context of black students and black academic success. She has done all of this, with unwavering perseverance, while also acting as the Head Manger at Studio Q, volunteering at the Vogue Charity Fashion Show, and being a student.
Dev has showcased exactly the skills and qualities that a Robert Sutherland Prize recipient does and we are honoured to present this award to her as a token of our appreciation to her steadfast commitment to making ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ a better place.