Meet Victoria Nolan - U of T Scarborough Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement Recipient

Victoria Nolan’s resilience has no bounds. Apart from breaking a world record and winning eight medals for Canada in Paralympic rowing, she has authored a book, hosted a TV show and inspired thousands of young people with her tenacity. Watch what motivates her to chart new heights and keep striving to do her best.

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 About Victoria:

Currently engaged in a leadership role at the CNIB Foundation to improve the quality of life for Canadian students who are blind or partially sighted, she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa in her second year at UTSC but refused to let the diagnosis come in the way of her dreams. In fact, even though she had less than 10% of vision, this setback further strengthened Victoria's resolve to succeed.
After completing a specialist degree in Cognitive Science, she went on to earn a master's degree in Child Study and Education, pursuing a career as an elementary teacher.  
Her tenacity led her to achievements on the World Stage as Canada’s National Rowing Team member. Together with her team, she has won eight medals for Canada, including a gold for breaking the world record at the World Rowing Championships in New Zealand.
Losing the remaining 10% of her vision hasn’t stopped Victoria from seeking new heights. She has since published her autobiography “Beyond Vision: The Story of a Blind Rower”, hosted the TV show “AMI This Week”, volunteered on Ontario’s Accessibility in education committee and motivated thousands of students through her address at the U of T convocation.

Nominations open April 3, 2023. Nominate an inspiring alum!