Introducing the 2023 Lassonde Scholarship Recipients: future STEM leaders

On March 19, the 2023 cohort of Lassonde Scholars gathered together to celebrate their achievements with Lassonde School of Engineering Dean, Jane Goodyer.

“I am so impressed by how these students are applying their ideas and knowledge to continually challenge the status quo and help right the future,” says Dean Goodyer.

The Lassonde Scholarship is generously provided by the Lassonde Family Foundation to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creative thinking and leadership within their community.

In a message shared with attendees during the event, Pierre Lassonde, founding donor of the School, expressed his appreciation for the scholars’ dedication and excellence. “I want to thank you for being the greatest students,” he said. Lassonde also offered advice, emphasizing the importance of proactive pursuit of personal and professional growth. “What you’re doing now is you are preparing yourself. You’re getting a degree, you’re building a CV. It is so important for you to put yourself in front of opportunities. Find a mentor that will help you develop your career, your skill,” he advised.

This substantial support from the Lassonde Family Foundation enables Scholars to pursue their ambitions in using engineering and science to drive positive change.

We are pleased to welcome the following 15 newest Lassonde Scholarship recipients of 2023:

Rayyan Ahmed is a first-year Computer Science student. Ahmed earned a second-place finish at the Ontario Engineering Competition and went on to represent York nationally. He also aspires to complete a  master’s degree at York, specializing in Machine Learning.

Sanad Al Ajrami is a second-year Computer Science student who believes that it is his responsibility to continue the growth cycle in engineering by ensuring we share our expertise and skills. He hopes to give back to the community by engaging with the k2i academy.

Ali Hassan Amin is a fourth-year international student in the Computer Science program who considers Lassonde his second home. During his time at the School, Amin has been involved in York’s Google Developer Student Club (GDSC) and took on an internship with a local start-up.

Karmela Anic-Matic is a first-year engineering student with plans to pursue software engineering. After graduation, Anic-Matic wishes to use her skills to make a difference in the world. She plans on leveraging her passions for coding, creating and volunteering to develop software that helps others.

Logan Bettles is a first-year engineering student who placed first in the York Engineering Competition (YEC), Debate and Innovative Design. He is now representing Lassonde at the Ontario Engineering Competition (OEC) for Innovative Design.

Snaha Hawlader is in her final year of the Mechanical engineering program and has recently secured a position as a New Graduate Engineer. She is thrilled to continue her quest for a PEng designation and play a part in providing Ontarians with clean nuclear energy.

Arya Khanal is a first-year Computer Science student who was drawn to STEM education through math and science. She is passionate about developing ideas and tools that help us make sense of our world. Khanal is also a member of the CTRL HACK DEL’s finance team, a part of the CS Hub.

Farah Madkour is a student in the Software Engineering program. Madkour applied for the Lassonde Undergraduate Research Award and aspires to become a professor conducting research, addressing crucial topics including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Abbey McMillan is a third-year Software Engineering student who is a member of York’s varsity women’s hockey team  a mentor to student athletes entering their first year. She aims to inspire young girls who dream of pursuing their sport while studying in the STEM field.

Mehregan Mesgari is a third-year Software Engineering student, and the first in her family to pursue higher education. Mesgari aims to use her education to ensure equal opportunities for girls in STEM.

Luna Marouf is a first-year Mechanical Engineering student. She hopes to develop a sensor detecting blood and tissue particles to expedite injury treatment and maintain athlete training schedules. She is currently researching sensors and microprocessors.

Baran Parsai is a first-year Computer Science student who is giving back to the community through her work as a tutor with Excel Lassonde. Her aspirations include engaging in impactful research and projects within the field of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence.

Aryan Rashid is a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student who aspires to work in the energy sector. At Lassonde, Rashid is a Mechanical Team Lead in the robotics club and an Undergraduate Residence House Don.

Mutammim Sarkar is a first-year Computer Science student. In high school, Sarkar was involved in organizing hackathons in his community. At York, he’s working to organize our first-ever overnight hackathon.

Kemar Bryan-Brown is an Electrical Engineering student. Bryan-Brown wants to demonstrate his leadership abilities during Black History Month and Black Excellence seminars, to benefit himself and his peers. He aspires to work in the transportation and health industries.

Congratulations to our newest Lassonde Scholars!