Each year, McMaster celebrates six TMG employees who have been nominated by their colleagues through the TMG Peer-to-Peer Recognition Program.  

The program celebrates members who are contributing to a brighter McMaster through the demonstration and reinforcement of McMaster’s core leadership capabilities.  TMG members represent a wide group of McMaster staff, including directors, managers and employees across campus. 

Six employees from McMaster’s management group (TMG) were nominated by colleagues and selected by the awards committee. This year’s winners were:  

• Tracey Carr: Invests in Relationships  
• Arlene Fajutrao Dosen: Communicates and Collaborates 
• Matthew Metcalfe: Develops People 
• Vinoth Mathiyalahan: Drives Results
• Moby Onuoha: Takes a Strategic Approach 
• Patricia Suleiman: Champions Change & Innovation 

Here’s what their nominators said about them:  

Tracey Carr: Invests in Relationships 

Tracey Carr’s nomination for the TMG Peer-to-Peer Award was a group effort by the TMG staff that she supervises at the department of Family Medicine (DFM), a sign of the kindness and generosity with which she leads her team.    

Carr’s dedication to fostering meaningful relationships, which includes celebrating both big and small achievements through handwritten cards and words of appreciation at staff huddles, have created a supportive and motivating atmosphere for all. 

“She empowers us to have ownership and autonomy in our work, while always being available for support and direction when needed,” said nominators Bethany Elliott and Laura Cleghorn.  

“Particularly memorable examples including meeting us wherever we’re at for a walk outdoors to talk through particularly tough problems.”   

Carr’s thoughtful leadership approach has also led to strengthened partnerships with others, including working with the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (IHLL) to develop the Indigenous Health Covenant. 

Arlene Fajutrao Dosen: Communicates and Collaborates 

Arlene Fajutrao Dosen is a natural collaborator, relationship builder, and “truly one-of-a-kind,” according to her nominator Nancy McKenzie.  

“Her warmth and genuine care for others shine through in everything she does,” said McKenzie. “Her ability to listen deeply and value everyone’s input makes her a standout leader.  

“She’s someone who makes a lasting impact on everyone she meets.” 

When Fajutrao Dosen served as the director of Outreach and Engagement in the Faculty of Engineering, she co-led the conceptualization and implementation of a unique “Hire McMaster” initiative in collaboration with other Faculty Career Office leads, with the goal of harmonizing outreach initiatives, career engagement opportunities, and sharing of best practices across the University.  

Thanks to Fajutrao Dosen’s collaborative efforts, the “Hire McMaster” initiative led to greater awareness and stronger relationships between the Faculty Career Offices.  

Matthew Metcalfe: Develops People 

Metcalfe is the recipient of the Develops People award, a testament to his outstanding leadership and dedication to nurturing the growth and development of his team, leading with positivity.  

“He lights up a room with his energy and encouragement,” said Tyron Thomas, who nominated Metcalfe.

“His genuine care and supportive leadership make him not only an exceptional colleague but also a fantastic human being.”   

In his current role as a Residence Life Area Coordinator (RLAC), Metcalfe supervises a team of 23 Community Advisors (CAs) and manages the day-to-day residence building operations for nearly 700 students living in Bates and Moulton.   

Metcalfe tailors his coaching, mentoring and support to each individuals’ goals and aspirations and is committed to the development of his staff as people, leaders and professionals.  

Vinoth Mathiyalahan: Drives Results 

Vinoth Mathiyalahan’s ability to take ownership of complex tasks and ensure their successful completion has made him an invaluable asset to the Department of Pediatrics.   

Mathiyalahan, a finance manager for the department, demonstrated remarkable leadership by streamlining the program budget, creating a user-friendly model that reduced administrative burden, minimized errors, and increased financial transparency.  

Along the way he sought feedback and made sure every key stakeholder understood how the new system would function.  

Gayal Kavirathnalage, who nominated Mathiyalahan, describes him as “incredibly open, supportive, and willing to share ideas.” Mathiyalahan’s collaborative nature and guidance were “invaluable,” Kavirathnalage said.  

“He truly embodies teamwork and excellence.”   

Moby Onuoha: Takes a Strategic Approach 

Onuoha, the Director of IT and Analytics in the Office of the Registrar, is the recipient of the Takes a Strategic Approach award, a testament to his outstanding leadership, and strategic vision. 

Onuoha consistently anticipates challenges and risks associated with centralizing software support with UTS, and his proactive approach has been instrumental in navigating this complex process successfully.  

Onuoha leads by example, demonstrating inclusive behavior in his actions, decision-making processes, and sharing of knowledge. His commitment to inclusivity and collaboration has created a supportive and empowering environment for his team and colleagues. 

Patricia Suleiman: Champions Change & Innovation 

As the university’s Senior Director, Human Rights and Accessibility in the Equity and Inclusion Office (EIO), Suleiman has had a profoundly positive impact on McMaster.    

Her approach, which is rooted in her values of social justice, equity and inclusion, have seen her resolve concerns swiftly and effectively by bringing about understanding and insight.    

“In a time marked by intense division, Pat’s insight and genuine respect for dignity and humanity helped cultivate a safe and inclusive environment, building trust and addressing the distinct needs of all involved,” said Clare Mitchell, her nominator.

“She is caring, kind, thoughtful, but in no way a pushover.”   

Suleiman led the creation of the “Fostering a Community of Belonging” inclusive sessions. These sessions have been instrumental in promoting a sense of belonging and inclusivity within our community, reflecting Suleiman’s innovative spirit and dedication to positive change.  

Learn more about the TMG Peer-to-Peer Recognition Program here