2025 Annual Report
The CIP/ICU Planning Student Trust Fund (CIP-PSTF) respectfully acknowledges that our office is located on the unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. CIP-PSTF values the ongoing stewardship of all First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
About the CIP/ICU Planning Student Trust Fund
The CIP/ICU Planning Student Trust Fund (CIP-PSTF) is the Canadian planning profession’s national charity, providing scholarships, bursaries, and awards to students in accredited planning programs in Canada.
Charitable registration # 889709499RR0001
Message from our President, Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP
It is my absolute pleasure to provide an update on CIP-PSTF! I am extremely grateful to Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP for the steady hand with which she led CIP-PSTF until June 2025, when I was elected President. Amanda led CIP-PSTF through a period of significant growth, building on our positive impact to students and increasing our bursaries and scholarship sponsors. Thank you Amanda!
This past year, 2025, was one of reflection, consideration, and setting the tone for an exciting 2026! The Board agreed to host a Strategic Planning session in Toronto in April. We refreshed our relations with both CIP and the College of Fellows, which will collectively yield very positive growth in the future. Together with Vice-President Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP and Treasurer Salvatore Marchese, we set a new tone for CIP-PSTF that will be revealed in the coming months.
For those of you coming to Montreal for FUSION 2026, I look forward to connecting! And plan to stay for Thursday night, when CIP-PSTF supporters will gather to witness the Cirque du Soleil show ECHO. It promises to be an epic evening!
CIP-PSTF Gets Social
To help raise awareness about the charity and its activities, CIP-PSTF was set up with its own LinkedIn account! You can help spread the word by following the account and encouraging others to do so!
CIP-PSTF in/at ACTION
Thanks to the support of the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP), CIP-PSTF once again had a presence at the annual national planning conference. CIP-PSTF’s booth on the exhibitor floor at ACTION in Toronto saw delegates learning more about the charity and its mandate while picking up some handy bookmarks and fun stickers.
During the awards lunch, recipients of CIP-PSTF’s 2024 bursaries and 2025 scholarships were celebrated on stage. Fifteen of the 16 recipients were able to attend the conference, and they did so at no cost to them, thanks to the generosity of the travel awards program sponsored by the Ages Foundation.
CIP-PSTF Treasurer Salvatore Marchese and former CIP-PSTF President Amanda Grochowich at the CIP-PSTF booth during the ACTION conference in Toronto.
Former CIP-PSTF President Amanda Grochowich with College of Fellows Undergraduate Bursary recipient Jennifer Khuu
New CIP Scholarships Launched
The Canadian Institute of Planners affirmed its commitment to both supporting its student members and advancing research in four of its priority action areas by creating four new $5,000 annual scholarships:
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CIP Healthy Communities Planning Scholarship
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CIP Housing Action Scholarship
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CIP Indigenous Communities Planning Scholarship
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CIP Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Planning Scholarship
Celebrating our Volunteers
CIP-PSTF's accomplishments would not be possible without its volunteers.
Thank you for your dedication and service!
CIP-PSTF Board of Directors
2024/2025
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP - President
Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP - Vice-President
Felipe Cañavera RPP, MCIP - Treasurer
Rasika Acharya RPP, MCIP
Jacob Babarinde RPP, MCIP
Mary Bishop RPP, FCIP
Jennifer Chapman LPP, MCIP
Derek Coleman RPP (Ret.), FCIP
Dena Farsad
Salvatore Marchese
Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP
Mark TeKamp LPP, MCIP
CIP-PSTF Board of Directors
2025/2026
Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP - President
Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP - Vice-President
Salvatore Marchese - Treasurer
Rasika Acharya RPP, MCIP
Vidya Anderson RPP, MCIP
Mary Bishop RPP, FCIP
Jennifer Chapman LPP, MCIP
Dena Farsad
Mir Ahsan Talpur RPP, MCIP
Mark TeKamp LPP, MCIP
Governance Committee
2024/2025
Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP - Chair
Rasika Acharya RPP, MCIP
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP
Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP
Mark TeKamp LPP, MCIP
2025/2026
Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP - Chair
Rasika Acharya RPP, MCIP
Vidya Anderson RPP, MCIP
Mary Bishop RPP, FCIP
Jennifer Chapman LPP, MCIP
Dena Farsad
Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP
Mark TeKamp LPP, MCIP
Finance Committe
2024/2025
Felipe Cañavera RPP, MCIP - Chair
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP
Salvatore Marchese
2025/2026
Salvatore Marchese - Chair
Michael Sullivan RPP, MCIP
Mir Ahsan Talpur RPP, MCIP
Nominations Subcommittee 2025
Mary Bishop RPP, FCIP
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP
Michelle Ouellette RPP, MCIP
Programming Committee
2024/2025
Salvatore Marchese - Chair
Mary Bishop RPP, FCIP
Jennifer Chapman LPP, MCIP
Dena Farsad
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP
Courtney Heron-Monk RPP, MCIP
Nicholas Kuhl RPP, MCIP
Committee dissolved in 2025
Communications and Fundraising Committee
2024/2025
Jennifer Chapman LPP, MCIP - Chair
Jacob Babarinde RPP, MCIP
Amanda Grochowich RPP, MCIP
Chase Knight
Michelle Kofia
Pauline Su
Committee dissolved in 2025
Bursary Jury 2025
John Kazilis RPP, MCIP - Co-Chair
Holly Stemberger RPP, MCIP - Co-Chair
Andrew Smith RPP, MCIP
Dana Anderson RPP, FCIP
André Bendwell urbaniste, MCIP
Stephanie Cantlay
Lyndsay Francis RPP, MCIP
Kathleen Gallagher RPP, MCIP
Brandon Powell RPP, MCIP
Jennifer Pye RPP, MCIP
Jennifer Roth RPP, MCIP
Scholarship Jury 2025
John Kazilis RPP, MCIP - Co-Chair
Holly Stemberger RPP, MCIP - Co-Chair
André Bendwell urbaniste, MCIP
Stephanie Cantlay
Maurice Luchich RPP, MCIP
Lyla Peter RPP, MCIP
Derek Vangool
Kyle Witiw RPP, MCIP
Janet Zazubek RPP, MCIP
2025 Recipients
SCHOLARSHIPS
Mara Bender
Université de Montréal
CIP-PSTF Excellence in Planning Research Scholarship (formerly known as CIP President's Scholarship)
Urbanism factors of suburban public space to create opportunities for intercultural interactions
“I am deeply grateful to be the recipient of the CIP-PSTF Excellence in Planning Research Scholarship. I’m honoured that CIP-PSTF recognizes the value of my work, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my research with the broader planning community. Thank you for this meaningful support.”
Sarah Mallen
Queen's University
CIP Healthy Communities Planning Scholarship
Urban Downtowns as Places for Healthy Aging: The Experiences of Downtown Living for Older Adults in Calgary, AB
“My research on the intersection of age-friendly planning, relocation, and downtown revitalization in Calgary is an incredibly unique project that emphasizes the diversity of lived experiences, motivations, and drawbacks for pre-retirement and retirement age adults in the Greater Downtown.”
Caley Savage
Queen's University
CIP Housing Action Scholarship
Studentification Unveiled: Navigating Socioeconomic Shifts, Housing Pressures, and Community Cohesion in Aging Communities
“I am honoured to receive the CIP Housing Action Scholarship. This support motivates me to continue advancing research and planning practices that foster more inclusive, resilient communities, translating academic insights into actionable solutions for cities facing similar demographic challenges.”
Emma O’Reilly
University of Waterloo
CIP Indigenous Communities Planning Scholarship
Indigenous Data Sovereignty in Professional Planning Practice; Through a Cross-Disciplinary Review
“Receiving this scholarship is both an honour and a meaningful opportunity to continue my research focused on ethical data practices and Indigenous data governance in the planning profession. This support not only empowers my academic journey but also signals a broader commitment to uplifting Indigenous voices and perspectives in planning practice and research.”
Jennifer Rodriguez
Queen's University
CIP Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Planning Scholarship
A Walk-Along Study Exploring Older Adults’ Perspectives on Age-Friendly Features and Playfulness in Ottawa’s Public Spaces
“Receiving the CIP EDIA in Planning Scholarship is an honour. I am deeply passionate about studying and learning from underrepresented voices to understand how they can shape and influence their own built environments. I am incredibly grateful to CIP for supporting my research and for recognizing the potential of play to enhance the quality of life for older adults.”
Adam Kelly
University of Waterloo
Glenn Tunnock Climate Change Action Scholarship
Revealing Active Transportation Network Shade Dynamics to Advance Municipal Shade Planning
“I am delighted and grateful to receive the Glenn Tunnock Climate Change Action Scholarship, as the financial freedom provided enables me to spend more time perfecting the workflow and analysis behind the project. In addition, the added exposure that my project will receive because of this scholarship is equally as important, as I'll be able to share the workflow with more municipalities and drive greater change."
Anita So
Vancouver Island University
CIP-PSTF Innovation in Planning Scholarship (formerly known as Thomas Adams Scholarship)
Outdoor Spaces for Everyone: Improving Accessibility in Backcountry Hiking Trails for People with Physical Disability
“I am thankful for this opportunity from CIP-PSTF and honoured to receive the Innovation in Planning Scholarship. This recognition inspires me to continue advancing work that ensures these spaces are inclusive, accessible, and equitable for all, contributing to the creation of more diverse and welcoming outdoor environments.”
BURSARIES
Cristina Sison Batalla
McGill University
CIP Diversity Impact Bursary
“This bursary is both an encouragement and a responsibility—to continue learning from communities and advancing planning practices grounded in care, equity, and hope for our future."
Amaan R Jabbar
Toronto Metropolitan University
CIP Diversity Impact Bursary
“Receiving this bursary is an incredible honour and truly meaningful recognition of the work I have dedicated myself to as a planning student and emerging professional."
Shannon Chow
University of British Columbia
CIP Diversity Impact Bursary
"This bursary allows me to dedicate more time to my studies and strengthens my commitment to working alongside communities advocating for systemic change and equitable futures.”
Rajdeep Dhaliwal
University of British Columbia
Ages Foundation Diversity Impact Bursary
“Receiving this CIP-PSTF bursary provides meaningful support as I continue developing the skills and relationships needed to contribute to just and accountable planning practice.”
Nathaniel Willing
University of British Columbia
SOAR Professional Services Indigenous Student Bursary
“Receiving this CIP-PSTF bursary means a great deal to me, as it supports my ability to study for future practice in planning with Indigenous communities throughout my master’s degree and beyond."
Rebecca Jeon
Toronto Metropolitan University
College of Fellows Undergraduate Bursary
"I sincerely thank the CIP-PSTF for this generous recognition of my dedication to the planning profession and for supporting my academic and professional growth.”
Mackenzie Lockett
University of Calgary
David Palubeski Bursary
"I am incredibly grateful for this financial support as I pursue my education and a future career in service to my community.”
Mo Li
Dalhousie University
Ted Fobert & Robert Tennant Planning Merit Bursary
"Beyond the valuable financial assistance, this recognition is a powerful encouragement as I work toward a dedicated and impactful career in planning.”
David Lee
University of Alberta
John Bousfield Bursary
“Being awarded the John Bousfield Bursary is a great honour and motivates me to continue developing my commitment to and interest in the field of planning."
OUTSTANDING GRADUATING
STUDENT AWARDS
Dalhousie University
Layth Abou Ezzeddine - Master of Planning
Darby Sullivan - Bachelor of Community Design
Simon Fraser University
Dana Kluchinski - Master of Resource Management (Planning)
Kevin Maars - Bachelor of Environment REM (Planning)
Toronto Metropolitan University
Julia Menezes - Master of Planning in Urban Development
Jennifer Khuu - Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning 4-year degree (PLAN)
William Ramalheiro - Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning Two-Year Post Baccalaureate Degree (PLAB)
Ainsley Johnston - Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning Two-Year Full-Time Post-Diploma Degree Completion (PLAD)
University of British Columbia
Radhika Singh - Master of Community and Regional Planning
University of Calgary
Collin Hnetka - Master of Planning
University of Manitoba
Gillian Kolody - Master of City Planning
University of Guelph
Lucas Berek - Master of Science in Planning (Rural Planning & Development, Canadian Stream)
University of Northern British Columbia
Connor Lewis - Bachelor of Planning
University of Saskatchewan
Wil Kushniryk - Bachelor of Arts in Regional and Urban Planning
Sydney Buzash - Bachelor of Arts in Regional and Urban Planning (Honours)
University of Toronto
Angela Ho - Master of Science in Planning
University of Waterloo
Emma Borho - Master of Arts (Planning)
Alexandra Kelly - Master of Environmental Studies in Planning
Mattea Schaap - Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Planning
Vancouver Island University
Erik Morden - Master of Community Planning
Our Supporters
The sustainability of CIP-PSTF’s scholarship, bursary, and awards program is dependent on corporate and individual donations. We would like to give special recognition to the following major donors who provided support to CIP-PSTF in 2025:
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Ages Foundation
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Bousfields Inc.
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Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP)
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Fotenn Planning + Design
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SOAR Professional Services
Through the funding received from our organizational and individual supporters, CIP-PSTF is able to continue to provide a robust scholarship and bursary program that recognizes and supports deserving planning students. Thank you to all CIP-PSTF donors – you are making a meaningful contribution to Canada’s future!
A Special Thank You To Our Donors
Each year, Fellows of the Canadian Institute of Planners initiate their own fundraising campaign to support our scholarships and bursaries programs. This year, they raised an impressive $13,000 for the College of Fellows Undergraduate Bursary, with 48% of the members of the College of Fellows participating.
Sustaining (monthly) donors
Lesley Cabott
Jennifer Chapman
Blaire Chisholm
Amanda Grochowich
Dave Hardy
Deborah Morrison
Karen Russell
Mark Seasons
John Steil
Jason Syvixay
Alex Taylor
Richard Walker
Westplan Consulting Group
2025 donors
Emilie K Adin
Dana Anderson
Beasley & Associates, Planning Inc.
Paul Bedford
Larry Bourne
Beate Bowron
Valérie Broadfoot
Brook McIlroy
David Brown
Wayne Caldwell
Robert (Bob) Caldwell
Ken Cameron
Ann Joyner
Hugh Kellas
François Lapointe
LDH Consultant and Mediation Inc.
Daniel Leeming
Isabel Little
John Livey
Marni Cappe
Gary Davidson
Jennifer Dean
Mark Dorfman
Bruce Duncan
Marta Farevaag
Frank Flanagan
Michael Geller
Zdzxislaw John Gladki
David Gordon
Jill Grant
Melanie Hare
Gordon Harris
Lombard North Group (1984) Ltd.
Russell Mathew
Daniel Mercer
Deborah Morrison
Nancy Mott
Ken O'Brien
Pamela Robinson
Somia Sadiq
Mark Seasons
Peter Smith
John Steil
Pamela Sweet
Gwynfor Symmons
Mary Lou Tanner
Alexandru Taranu
Eric Vance
Leela Viswanathan
Richard White
Stephen Willis
Jay Wollenberg
Andy Yan
Alex Forbes
Walter Jamieson
Stephen Jewczyk
Thank You to CIP Staff
Ways to Support CIP-PSTF
There are many ways you can support CIP-PSTF, including but not limited to one-time donations, monthly donations, workplace donations, gifts-in-kind, securities donations, and planned giving. Contact us at cip-pstf@cip-icu.ca to learn more.