2nd Annual Friends of Richard Bilkszto Awards Presented in Toronto

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2025

Toronto, ON – The 2025 Richard Bilkszto Award & Scholarship Ceremony took place at Toronto City Hall, Committee Room #3 from 1:00 to 2:00 pm on May 10, 2025. This event honors the legacy of respected educator Richard Bilkszto, who served as a teacher and principal in the Greater Toronto Area for 24 years. Richard’s steadfast commitment to creating equal opportunities and encouraging excellence for all students—regardless of their background—made a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of young people. 

Sadly, Richard’s life was cut short after he was subjected to bullying over a false accusation of racism. The award and scholarship established in his name carry forward his vision of a more just and inclusive education system for future generations.

The Richard Bilkszto Awards & Scholarships in the amount of $500 and $1,000, respectively, were presented to one outstanding educator and one deserving student. This year’s winners are:

●  Violet Shearer, retired teacher, Toronto DSB

●  Jaidyn Clipperton, first year Bachelor of Education candidate at Niagara University

Winner bios and photos are available on the website here.  

“We are heartened to see that dedicated, compassionate, and genuine educators continue to make a meaningful and inspiring impact on their students' lives - just as Richard did,” said Natasha Mansouri, Chair of the Board.  “Friends of Richard Bilkszto aims to honour these teachers and inspire the next generation of educators.”

The organization is also pleased to announce that it obtained charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency in early 2025, making all donations eligible for a tax receipt. Donations can be made online here.

According to Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Yu, “This represents a major step forward for the organization and means we are in a stronger position to expand, explore potential partnerships and honour Richard’s life and legacy.”

Friends of Richard Bilkszto is now seeking interested individuals to join its Fundraising Committee and/or Board of Directors. Applicants should email info@richardbilkszto.com to express interest or visit www.richardbilkszto.com/board.

For more information, please visit www.richardbilkszto.ca.

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Founded in 2024, Friends of Richard Bilkszto is a registered Canadian charity that honours the life and legacy of the late Toronto principal Richard Bilkszto, who took his own life following bullying over a false charge of racism. Every year, the organization disburses a cash scholarship to a teachers’ college candidate and a cash award to an Ontario teacher.

Media Contact:

Tasha Kheiriddin, Board Member
tasha@richardbilkszto.com