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The Faculty of Arts and Science celebrated its second annual ElevateHer event, generously sponsored by TD and hosted at the brand-new , the Bank's newest office space at 160 Front Street West in Toronto.

The sold-out event brought together a vibrant and diverse community of alumni from across the Greater Toronto Area, united by a shared commitment to advancing gender equity. Set against the backdrop of meaningful dialogue and collaboration, the morning featured a compelling panel of accomplished female leaders who shared their journeys, challenges, and victories with authenticity and passion

Paige Robinson

This year’s ElevateHer event was more than just a gathering — it was a powerful call to action, dedicated to accelerating progress toward empowerment and true gender parity. The atmosphere was electric with inspiration, as attendees left feeling not only informed but deeply moved and motivated to be agents of change in their own spheres. The conversations sparked, the connections made, and the insights shared created a ripple effect, leaving a lasting impact that extended far beyond the event itself.

The event was moderated by Paige Robinson, BHSc’25, CIB’25. She is a proud member of the Queen’s University Class of 2025, graduating with a Bachelor of Health Studies from the Faculty of Arts and Science and a Certificate in Business from the Smith School of Business. With a growing interest in economics and the intersection of health and business, Paige is passionate about using strategy, innovation, and collaboration to drive positive change at both the local and global levels. Paige has also demonstrated her commitment to campus life through various leadership positions seamlessly blending purpose with impact.

The panel members included:

Jody Beaupre

Jody Beaupre, Vice-President & Region Head, TD Wealth Private Wealth Management  

Jody leads a team of over 450 Wealth Professionals who provide trusted advice and planning to high-net-worth clients and their families to help them build and protect their financial well-being over lifetimes. A seasoned Executive with over 25 years of wealth management experience, leading large distribution, and sales support teams, she is passionate about helping women build their financial confidence and is the Executive Sponsor of the TD Wealth for Women Program in Greater Ontario.  

Dr. Jessica Riddell, Founder of Hope Circuits & the Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence  

Dr. Riddell is the founder of Hope Circuits Institute, a think tank dedicated to systems re-wiring and renewal in the post-secondary sector. An award-winning educator and scholar, she has published on Shakespeare, institutional culture change, inter-institutional collaborations, experiential learning, and inclusive high-impact practices. 

Jessica Riddell

She is a Full Professor of Early Modern Literature at Bishop’s University and holds the Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence in this capacity, she focuses on systems-change in higher education that fosters human flourishing.  

Dr. Stéfanie von Hlatky, Canada Research Chair in Gender, Security and the Armed Forces  

Dr. von Hlatky is the Canada Research Chair in Gender, Security and the Armed Forces, Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Fellow and former Director of the Centre for International and Defence Policy at Queen’s University. She is a Full Professor in the Department of Political Studies in the Faculty of Arts and Science. Stéfanie is the founder of Women in International Security-Canada, and the Honorary Colonel of the Princess of Wales' Own Regiment.

Stéfanie von Hlatky

FAS Interim Dean Bob Lemieux joined the event in Toronto and spoke about the importance of the ElevateHer series.

"It was an absolute honour for the Faculty of Arts and Science to host the ElevateHer: Accelerate Action event in collaboration with TD Wealth Management. Events like this are vital in shaping inclusive academic and professional spaces. I was especially inspired by the three exceptional panelists—Dr. Jessica Riddell, Jody Beaupre, and Dr. Stéfanie von Hlatky—exemplify the kind of leadership, intellect, and advocacy we must continue to elevate the next generation of students like Paige Robinson, who seamlessly inspired us with her poise as moderator. They are not only leaders in their respective fields—they are role models for our students, alumni, and broader community."

ElevateHer is part of a series of events orchestrated to promote connectivity and innovation with our industry partners and alumni. To learn more about the Elevate ArtSci series, please visit Elevate ArtSci at Queens. If you would like to support Women’s and Equity initiatives, please contact KP Anand, Executive Director, Development at kp.anand@queensu.ca.