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[Alumni News and Stories](/index%2Ephp/markdownify/node/227) # Alumni News & Stories Explore - [Overview](/index%2Ephp/alumni) - [Benefits and Services](/index%2Ephp/alumni/benefits-and-services) - [Contact Us](/index%2Ephp/alumni/contact-us) - [Events](/index%2Ephp/alumni/alumni-events) - [Lifelong Learning](/index%2Ephp/alumni/lifelong-learning) - [News and Stories](/index%2Ephp/alumni/alumni-news-and-stories) - [Donate Now](https://secure3.convio.net/ocadu/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app30132a?df_id=1980&mfc_pref=T&1980.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=2E84D64643F79CCED9AC44A5B88F2580) ![](/themes/custom/ocad/img/decor/ripped-paper-whitebg.png) ## Alumni news [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-09/Mary%20Ratcliffe%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=PITS3K-r) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-09/Mary%20Ratcliffe%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=PITS3K-r) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2026-09/Mary%20Ratcliffe%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=CvKD_fFo) ### Alum Spotlight: Mary Ratcliffe (BDes ’11) – What happens after the big idea? For OCAD U alum Mary Ratcliffe (BDes, Environmental Design, ’11), bringing an idea to life is only the beginning. The Toronto furniture designer shares what it takes to turn creativity into a lasting practice. September 15, 2026 ](/news/alum-spotlight-mary-ratcliffe-bdes-11-what-happens-after-big-idea) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-04/Matthew%20Thomas%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=b5DO-2Qh) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-04/Matthew%20Thomas%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=b5DO-2Qh) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2026-04/Matthew%20Thomas%20-%201920%20x%201080.png?itok=CwoX61Y7) ### Alum Spotlight: Matthew Thomas (MDes ’20) – Expanding Access to Nature Through Design Matthew Thomas (MDes ’20) is reshaping how people experience the outdoors through design, expanding access to nature and strengthening tourism systems. May 6, 2026 ](/news/alum-spotlight-matthew-thomas-mdes-20-expanding-access-nature-through-design) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-01/Knitting%20Echoes%20EXC_0.jpeg?itok=csok2Ihk) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2026-01/Knitting%20Echoes%20EXC_0.jpeg?itok=csok2Ihk) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2026-01/Knitting%20Echoes%20EXC_0.jpeg?itok=dzhjo7sx) ### Open call for emerging youth artists, aged 18 to 29 DXC and OCAD University, in partnership with the EU Delegation to Canada, invite emerging youth artists, aged 18 to 29, from Canada and EU to participate in the DemocracyXChange 2026. January 6, 2026 ](/index%2Ephp/news/open-call-emerging-youth-artists-aged-18-29) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-11/I-AM-THE-ART-NOBUO-KUBOTA1-1600x1146_0.webp?itok=tRpWHeQW) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-11/I-AM-THE-ART-NOBUO-KUBOTA1-1600x1146_0.webp?itok=tRpWHeQW) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2025-11/I-AM-THE-ART-NOBUO-KUBOTA1-1600x1146_0.webp?itok=r9c3gQXw) ### Alum’s film presents poignant portrait of OCA faculty member The world premiere of Annette Mangaard’s film, I Am the Art: Nobuo Kubota, is Dec. 7 at Ted Rogers Hot Docs Cinema. November 21, 2025 ](/news/alums-film-presents-poignant-portrait-oca-faculty-member) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-10/Inaugural%20Chancellor%27s%20Lifetime%20Achivement%20Award%20-%2034.jpg?itok=rSpKEvB9) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-10/Inaugural%20Chancellor%27s%20Lifetime%20Achivement%20Award%20-%2034.jpg?itok=rSpKEvB9) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2025-10/Inaugural%20Chancellor%27s%20Lifetime%20Achivement%20Award%20-%2034.jpg?itok=R55cbp1H) ### Rosalie Sharp honoured with inaugural Chancellor’s Lifetime Achievement Award The OCAD U award recognizes Rosalie Sharp’s extraordinary contributions to the advancement of art, design and culture in Toronto and across Canada. October 22, 2025 ](/news/rosalie-sharp-honoured-inaugural-chancellors-lifetime-achievement-award) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-10/Brian%20Hawkins_1.jpeg?itok=Eb0XpBrM) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_large/public/2025-10/Brian%20Hawkins_1.jpeg?itok=Eb0XpBrM) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/latest_news_small/public/2025-10/Brian%20Hawkins_1.jpeg?itok=C8Xd2VRb) ### Alum Spotlight: Brian Hawkins’ global journey in media and advertising From humble beginnings in Hamilton, Ontario, to making waves in television and advertising worldwide, Brian Hawkins’ career has been nothing short of groundbreaking. October 9, 2025 ](/news/alum-spotlight-brian-hawkins-global-journey-media-and-advertising) ## Featured alumni 01 Previous item Next item ![Danielle-Kim](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Danielle-Kim.jpg.webp?itok=B6HUt3Js) ![Danielle-Kim](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/template.png.webp?itok=aeWFqJkl) Watch ### Danielle Kim Environmental Design After graduating from OCAD U’s Environmental Design program in 2016, Danielle Kim is bringing her passion for functional design to life at RioCan. Her biggest takeaway from her time at OCAD U? 'Form follows function' — a design principle that guides her every step. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/danielle-kim "Visit Danielle Kim profile page") ![Lucas-Kschischang](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Lucas-Kschischang.jpg.webp?itok=gqBCtVmV) ![Lucas-Kschischang](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Lucas-Kschischang_1.png.webp?itok=r1_Ks_1d) Watch ### Lucas Kschischang Photography Since his days in OCAD U’s photography program, Lucas Kschischang @kschischang has worked for the Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, and more. We followed Lucas around for a day as he captured the action as the club photographer of the Toronto FC [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/lucas-kschischang "Visit Lucas Kschischang profile page") ![Mathew-Schoefield](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Mathew-Schoefield.jpg.webp?itok=SW5LXOOb) ![Mathew-Schoefield](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Mathew-Schoefield_0.png.webp?itok=fx_AuKSd) Watch ### Matthew Schofield Drawing & Painting Matthew Schofield is using the skills he learned in OCAD U’s Drawing & Painting program in the digital world of TV and film VFX, entering the industry thanks to lifelong friends made during his time at OCAD U. Matthew has contributed to films such as Scott Pilgrim vs. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/matthew-schofield "Visit Matthew Schofield profile page") ![Sharene-Shafie](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Sharene-Shafie.jpg.webp?itok=CtzjddKn) ![Sharene-Shafie](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Sharene-Shafie_3.png.webp?itok=QT_Ofe-h) Watch ### Sharene Shafie Strategic Foresight and Innovation (MDes) OCAD U alum Sharene Shafie wants you to feel empowered by growing your own food! Sharene earned her Master’s in Strategic Foresight and Innovation at OCAD U and is using her skills as Project Lead for the City of Toronto’s Climate Action Team. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/sharene-shafie-0 "Visit Sharene Shafie profile page") ![Alex McLeod](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Alex-McLeod.jpg.webp?itok=lkqUTfby) ![Alex McLeod](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Alex-McLeod.png.webp?itok=OgbNTVyy) Watch ### Alex McLeod Drawing & Painting OCAD U alum Alexander McLeod (@alexander\_mcleod\_) thrives in crafting imaginative worlds for his clients – from concert visuals for Celine Dion and Kelly Rowland to murals at Harbourfront Centre. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/alex-mcleod-0 "Visit Alex McLeod profile page") ![Everett Vane ](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Everett-Vane-.jpg.webp?itok=RXLo-mYw) ![Everett Vane ](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Everett-Vane-_0.png.webp?itok=Ixa5bSNy) Watch ### Everett Vane Advertising After completing OCAD University's Advertising program, Everett Vane (@guccivane) co-founded func.media (@func.media), a full-service digital agency specializing in branding, web design/development, content creation, and more. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/everett-vane "Visit Everett Vane profile page") ![Ethan Platt](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_wide/public/2024-10/Ethan-Platt.jpg.webp?itok=zZvwUT9_) ![Ethan Platt](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_large/public/2024-10/Ethan-Platt.png.webp?itok=y3HsTjlY) Watch ### Ethan Platt Drawing & Painting Ethan Platt graduated from OCAD U’s Drawing & Painting program in 2023 and has already achieved his first major goal post graduation – participating in The Artist Project showcase. [ Read more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/profile/ethan-platt "Visit Ethan Platt profile page") rgb(0,0,0) ## If these walls could talk Discover the diverse journeys of our alumni, showcasing innovation and artistic exploration. These narratives speak volumes about the lasting impact our alums have on the creative community. Thank you to our alums for their generous support and for being the driving force behind our rich legacy of creativity. [ Learn more .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](/index%2Ephp/giving/if-these-walls-could-talk)rgba(160,20,236,1) rgba(255,255,255,1) rgb(0,0,0) rgb(0,0,0) ## Class notes Want to share your story with us? Submit a Class Note today! [Submit a class note](mailto:alumni@ocadu.ca?subject=Class%20Note%20from%20Public%20Website) rgb(0,0,0) “My education at OCAD University was extremely valuable for developing new and meaningful connections, enhancing my writing and research skills, and learning to be resilient while working with artists and curating my thesis exhibition online during the COVID-19 pandemic. I will always be grateful to my past instructors and advisors, especially Tairone Bastien, Andrea Fatona, Francisco-Fernando Granados, Amish Morrell, and Caroline Langill, for their curatorial expertise and encouragement. OCAD U set me up for success and gave me the tools to build on when I entered my Master's program. My advice is to immerse yourself in the art scene as much as possible to begin to curate long-lasting relationships with artists, community members, and experienced curators. You never know what museum, gallery, or alternative space might be looking for someone with your unique talents and skills.” **Samantha Lance** *(BFA with Distinction, Criticism and Curatorial Practice, 2021)* “My time at OCAD University was invaluable; surrounded by talented artists and designers, I found the freedom to explore my creativity fully and felt at home in a community that shares my passion and drive. It was a place where inspiration flowed freely, and every day deepened my love for art and design.” **Fernando Ciccotosto** *(BDES, Graphic Design, 2010)* *"My time at OCAD U was an incredibly positive experience, largely because of the friendships I formed within this vibrant, creative community. The bonds we built through shared passions continue to enrich my life, as many of us remain close friends to this day. Now, working as an employee here feels like a full-circle moment—staying connected to a place that shaped me both personally and professionally. It’s inspiring to be part of this community from a new perspective, supporting the next generation of creatives."* **Christine Magsalay** *(BA, Integrated Media, 2005)* "*My advice is to soak it all in! The world of OCAD U is full of interesting creatives that will open your eyes to new possibilities. You will be surprised at how often you choose to apply what you learn in the working world. The important lessons I learned while at OCA have lasted throughout my career. Learning core design principles and gaining that important understanding of interplay takes a lifetime to master, but if you work with solid core grounding principles you will be rewarded with outcomes that continue to expand your joy of art and design."* **Sarah Currie** *(Communication & Design, OCA)* rgb(0,0,0) *"OCAD U was a fantastic and challenging experience! The amazing cohort of teachers in the Drawing and Painting faculty pushed me to explore my artistic capabilities and I wouldn't be where I am today without their foundational support. My advice to current students is to get out of your comfort zone and it is okay to take a leap to try something new - even if it is scary."* **Sarah Zanchetta** *(BFA, Drawing & Painting, 2018)* *"I loved my time at OCAD U so much that I’ve never left! As a student and then as an employee I have worked with all members of this amazing & creative community, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. My advice to current students, immerse yourself in this incredible environment and take full advantage of the studios!"* **Julie Thompson** *(BDES, Industrial Design, 2008)* OCAD University gave me the space and opportunity to create alongside a close-knit community of artists and designers. That environment in itself was such a tremendous resource. As a former student, I can’t stress enough the importance of collaboration and exploration: You can find so many opportunities to push your creativity in and outside the classroom. **Vibeke Silverthorne** *(Advertising, Class of 2018)*