Meet the next generation of Lassonde Scholar

On March 11, the 2024 cohort of Lassonde Scholars gathered to celebrate their achievements with Julie Lassonde from the Lassonde Family Foundation, and York University’s Lassonde School of Engineering Dean, Jane Goodyer.  

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

“I’m incredibly impressed by how your journey has brought you here,” said Ms. Lassonde as she congratulated the newest Scholars. 

Substantial financial support from the Lassonde Family Foundation enables Scholars to pursue their ambitions, using engineering and science to drive positive change. 

“These students join an incredible community of more than 100 Lassonde Scholars who are already making an impact in Canada and around the world,” said Dean Goodyer. “It’s amazing to see where they go after graduation. No matter the path, there’s one thing they all have in common: they’re using their talents to build a more just and sustainable world.” 

Dean Goodyer (right) greets Julie Lassonde as she joins virtually | Lassonde Scholar, Aradhya Banerjee (left) with Dean Goodyer 

The reception, which included family and faculty, recognized the accomplishments of the fifteen newest recipients of the 2024 Lassonde Scholarship: 

Amira Mohamed is in her fourth year of software engineering and is passionate about AI’s impact on healthcare and sustainability. As a Lassonde Scholar, she gives back through conducting study sessions and supporting women in STEM by organizing impactful events. She plans to pursue a master’s degree and drive meaningful change with AI. 

Amira Mohamed, fourth-year Software Engineering, is passionate about AI’s impact on healthcare and sustainability. As a Lassonde Scholar, she leads study sessions and organizes events supporting women in STEM. She plans to pursue a master’s and drive meaningful change with AI. 

Aradhya Banerjee, second-year Computer Science, mentors first-years in hackathons and works on projects supporting international students. She aims to transform education and help students experience the power of knowledge. 

Aruzhan Massalina, first-year Computer Engineering, develops computational tools for mathematics research under Professor Nantel Bergeron. As VP of Events for the Computing Students Hub, she fosters a strong tech community and hopes to inspire more women in STEM. 

Ben Petlach, second-year Computer Engineering, is a software developer for the York University Robotics Society. He is working on a Software as a Service project and exploring different engineering fields, with plans to contribute to the industry and start his own business. 

Bhavee Bhavesh Rathod, second-year Electrical Engineering, is a member of Lassonde Student Congress with a passion for nuclear energy and improving plant efficiency. Inspired by her scholarship, she is dedicated to giving back to the Lassonde community. 

Brock Koch Nichol, third-year Space Engineering, is passionate about astronomy and space exploration. He aims to revive hands-on opportunities like CubeSat projects to fuel student passions, build community, and inspire change. 

Diego Romero Rincon, third-year Software Engineering (Big Data), specializes in AI, Machine Learning, and Quantum Computing. He leads the Lassonde Peer Mentorship program, supporting first-year students in navigating university life. 

Elias Akmel Suna, first-year Engineering, has experience in web development, SEO, and digital marketing. He applies his technical skills to academics and personal projects, aspiring to innovate in software automation and web development. 

Emma Bresil, fourth-year Civil Engineering, is an active member of Civil Engineers of Lassonde, leading events that connect students with faculty and industry. She plans to advance sustainability and improve building practices in her career. 

Joseph Thomas, third-year Mechanical Engineering, is passionate about aerospace and is completing a co-op at Pratt & Whitney. As a Lassonde Student Congress leader, he works to improve accessibility in education for students facing financial barriers. 

Larissa Singh, third-year Software Engineering, is passionate about technology for societal good. As Social Media Executive for Women in Science and Engineering at York, she empowers women in STEM. Her scholarship has inspired her to join hackathons and explore research. 

Menachem Guttmann, third-year Electrical Engineering, is a leader in the York University Robotics Society. He has contributed to medical device development, earned the NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award, and is committed to improving accessibility in healthcare. 

Ryan Roodal, second-year Space Engineering, is passionate about space exploration and technology. As an executive in the Guyanese Student Council and a member of YorkU’s Satellite and Rocketry Clubs, he leads projects like a retro gaming console and satellite orbit simulator. 

Umm-Ayman Hassan, first-year Mechanical Engineering, joined the Robotics Society in her first week at York and is eager to engage in more campus activities while striving for academic excellence. 

Yuqian Liu, third-year Software Engineering, is passionate about machine learning and its industry applications. As a Program Mentor at k2i Academy and a Peer Mentor, she supports younger students while expanding her skills and ambition. 

Dean Jane Goodyer with the 2024 cohort of Lassonde Scholars. 

See the full event gallery here.