Sarah Lavoie, departmental assistant in the Department of Computer Science. (Photo: Matt Hintsa)
Sitting at the heart of the Department of Computer Science, Sarah Lavoie welcomes all who visit with a cheerful greeting and a smile.
Lavoie, who has dedicated 14 years to the department, has been honoured with the 2025 Dean’s Outstanding Administrative Service Award by the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Arts & Science.
The award is given to a Faculty of Arts & Science administrative staff member whose outstanding contributions to administrative service have made a positive impact on teaching, research or general administration.
Lavoie’s journey with the department began in 2008 as a summer student administrative assistant. After completing her degree at the Ontario College of Art & Design University (OCAD U), she joined the department full-time in 2011 as a departmental assistant.
“Sarah’s professionalism and personal touch help build a sense of community, making our large department feel more like a family,” said Eyal de Lara, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science.
In her role, Lavoie is the first point of contact for students, parents, external guests, alumni, faculty and staff.
She has also navigated the department through numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. She was one of the few administrative staff members who remained on campus, ensuring the office continued running smoothly. Her presence was a source of comfort and stability for faculty, students and staff during those uncertain times.
"Sarah Lavoie sits at the very heart of our department,” said Sara Burns, manager of the office of the chair. "In addition to supporting our faculty, staff and students, Sarah is our de facto morale officer as she always has a cheerful greeting, professional manner and a genuinely warm smile for those who pass her door."
Nominators noted that her commitment to the department's well-being is evident in her proactive approach to learning new skills.
Lavoie independently learned various software tools and plays a key role in organizing and running departmental events, from the annual holiday party to the Distinguished Lecture Series.
“Sarah embodies the best aspects of our department's culture,” said Jacqueline Smith, associate professor, teaching stream. “We are very lucky to have her.”
“I hope that my positive outlook and my kind and cheerful demeanour leave even a small impression on the people that pass through DCS,” said Lavoie. “I’m thankful for the acknowledgment from the Dean of Arts & Science, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support and recognition from the chair’s office and those who wrote letters of support for my nomination.”