Chosen to represent their graduating class, Telfer's 2026 valedictorians embody the excellence and sense of community that define the Telfer School of Management. Their stories highlight not only academic achievement, but also the perseverance and personal growth that have shaped their university journeys, supported along the way by the people who believed in them.
This year, Megan Thompson and Zain Ahmed were selected as valedictorians for Telfer's Bachelor of Commerce graduates, while Amanda Maria Kutenski was chosen to represent the graduate programs as a Master of Science in Health Systems graduate. Though their experiences at Telfer were distinct, each leaves a legacy of engagement, determination, and a commitment to making a positive impact on those around them.
Megan Thompson: Building Community Through Involvement
For Megan Thompson, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate in Marketing, her university experience was about much more than earning a degree. Throughout her time at Telfer, she embraced every opportunity to get involved, believing that some of the most valuable learning happens outside the classroom.
From serving in multiple leadership roles with the Telfer Marketing Association and competing with the Telfer Competitions Committee to mentoring students, representing the University through French Immersion initiatives, and competing as a varsity squash athlete, Megan's impact could be felt across campus.
Entre les rôles de leadership au sein de l’Association de marketing Telfer, les activités du Comité compétitions Telfer, le mentorat, la représentation de l’Université dans le cadre d’initiatives d’immersion en français et le squash au niveau universitaire, sa présence s’est fait sentir aux quatre coins du campus.
"Getting involved has been the most rewarding part of my academic journey," she reflects. "Telfer gave me the space to explore, lead, and learn through collaboration."
A strong advocate for student engagement, Megan has spent years helping fellow students discover opportunities, build confidence, and develop meaningful connections. Whether welcoming new students during orientation, organizing events, or mentoring peers, she consistently worked to foster a sense of belonging within the Telfer community.
Looking back, she is most proud of helping make Telfer a more connected, inclusive, and supportive environment. For Megan, leadership is about creating opportunities for others and empowering them to succeed.
After graduation, Megan is excited to maintain the connections she built at Telfer and apply the leadership, collaboration, and communication skills she developed throughout her university experience in her career. Her advice to current and future Telfer students is simple: be open to new experiences, get involved, and immerse yourself in the community.
Zain Ahmed: Embracing the Journey
For Zain Ahmed, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate in Finance, being selected as valedictorian is both an honour and a reflection of the people who helped shape his university experience.
"Representing my classmates at convocation is an immense honour and privilege," he says. "I believe that I have learned as much from my classmates as I have from my classes—if not more."
One of the defining experiences of Zain's time at university was his involvement with the Telfer Capital Fund, where he developed both personally and professionally while building friendships that continue to this day. Serving as a Teaching Assistant was another highlight, allowing him to support students and contribute to their early experiences at university.
Throughout his journey, several mentors left a lasting impression. He credits Vice-Dean Matt Archibald for his guidance and support since his first year, and Professor Miwako Nitani for her generosity, empathy, and dedication to student success.
When asked what advice he would give future Telfer students, Zain's response is refreshingly simple: "Stop and smell the flowers."
He encourages students to embrace the university experience, be patient with themselves, and focus not only on achievements but also on the moments, relationships, and lessons that make the journey meaningful.
Following graduation, Zain will begin a new chapter in Toronto, where he will be working in finance, carrying with him the experiences, friendships, and memories that defined his time at Telfer.
Amanda Maria Kutenski: Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare
Amanda Maria Kutenski’s journey as a Master of Science student in Health Systems reflects the perseverance and dedication required to pursue advanced research.
Throughout her master's studies, Amanda's research focused on how healthcare technologies, particularly hospital information systems, are implemented and used in practice.
Amanda credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her family, friends, and faith throughout her academic journey. While the path was not always easy, she remained committed to her goals and is proud of what she has accomplished.
She also credits her Research Supervisor and mentor, Professor Mirou Jaana, with playing a pivotal role in her success. "She believed in me even when I doubted my own abilities," Amanda says. "Thanks to her support, I persevered and was able to keep moving forward."
Amanda remains deeply grateful for the community that supported her. Now pursuing her PhD at Telfer in Health Systems Management, she continues her research with the goal of improving healthcare systems and patient care while contributing to projects with a genuine human impact.
Celebrating the Class of 2026
The stories of Megan, Zain, and Amanda remind us that success takes many forms. Whether through leadership, mentorship, research, community involvement, or perseverance, each has made a meaningful contribution to the Telfer community.
As they take the stage to represent their fellow graduates, they embody the values that define #TelferNation: leadership, collaboration, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Congratulations to our valedictorians and to the entire Class of 2026!
Want to see more graduate stories, Convocation highlights, and student achievements? Follow Telfer School of Management on Instagram and LinkedIn and join us in celebrating the accomplishments of #TelferNation.
