TFS - Canada's International School

Laura Deliakis '06 Senior Account Manager SOS Design Inc. Laura Deliakis has a bachelor of science degree in environmental science from Queen's University and a post-graduate degree in baking and pastry arts management from George Brown College. As the Chair of the Alumni Recognition Committee and a member of the TFS Alumni Association Executive, she is continually inspired by the TFS alumni community and the diff erence they are making as individuals and citizens. "What strikes me most," Laura says, "is how incredibly hard they work, even when it's at the risk of falling down or starting over. TFS'ers have the education and the network to create their own futures. When I read through the Alumni of Distinction Award nominations and see what my peers have been working on since they graduated, it simply makes me feel proud to be a TFS alumna." As a marketing professional with a background in branding and advertising, she uses her professional experience to help brainstorm and plan how to better engage the alumni community. She brings a lot of enthusiasm to her volunteer roles and notes that, "yes, we work hard to bring good ideas to the table and to constantly improve upon what has been done before, but we have a lot of fun doing it!" Laura encourages all alumni to get involved, stating that, "friendships, connections and a common experience are the foundational elements of the TFS alumni community, and engaging with the school allows you to be part of that again." Michael Biro '80 Entrepreneur, Educator and Environmentalist A passionate birder, science lover and avid tennis player, Michael Biro is the proud parent of two TFS alumni, Sophia '09 and Jeremy '15, as well as two future TFS alumni, Hannah (Class of '29) and Gordon (Class of '32). The decision to send his children to TFS was an easy one for Michael, who says, "I believe that early exposure to a diff erent language is essential and, having attended myself, I know that the school shares my values. More importantly, my kids love TFS." While the school has grown and changed over time, the values of integrity, discernment, respect and engagement are something Michael says have been there since the early days. Engaged and committed, Michael has supported many fundraising initiatives and auctions at the school. He has donated his time and resources to take TFS families on guided birding adventures through Point Pelee National Park. He has also been an annual donor for more than a decade, fi rst as an alumnus and now as a TFS parent. "It's important to give back and be part of the community," Michael says, "and when I imagine that my support can help enhance the life and educational experience of a child, I know that I'm also making an important contribution to society. The education of our children establishes a fi gurative portal to our own place and time in the universe." With the master p lan in development, and TFS poised for future growth, Michael is excited to see what comes next. He notes that, "TFS should never stop thinking about the future. It's going to be great!" 13 2016 – 2017 Report to Our Community

• Cover