Domenico Verduci
Recipient of the Lisa MacNeil Memorial Award
"This award means that my work in the community and in school has not gone unnoticed and I’m encouraged to continue volunteering and participating in school and community life."
Studying: Life Sciences (Honours Bachelor of Science)
Cell and Molecular Biology
School: University of Toronto - Trinity College (first year)
Career aspirations: Cardiologist
What was the first thing you did when you found out you’re receiving a scholarship award and how did you feel?
The first thing I did when I found out that I was receiving a scholarship was tell my family. I felt very happy and was proud of myself and the work I have done in high school.
What is the most important attribute to be a leader in your community and why?
The most important attribute of being a leader in my community, and a leader in general, is being able to adapt and change plans or goals and communicating the change effectively. Our environment, especially now, is not constant or regular, but rather fluctuant. A good leader must be able to lead effectively with an ability to work around obstacles for the betterment of the community.
What does this award mean to you?
This award means that my work in the community and in school has not gone unnoticed and I’m encouraged to continue volunteering and participating in school and community life. Additional quote for a highlight.
What has been your most rewarding volunteer experience?
My most rewarding volunteer experience has been my four-year devotion to the Legacy Council at my school, especially as its co-president for three years. This opportunity has given me the ability to lead groups of people and given me a platform to help the community. I have also further developed my skills in communication, organization, and responsibility.
What or who inspired you to choose your major?
I was inspired by individuals in health care and my teachers when choosing my program in life sciences.
How did COVID-19 change your volunteering experience and what has it taught you?
My volunteering experience has been affected by COVID-19 in different ways. This summer, I was unable to work as a camp counsellor due to the pandemic. Instead, I volunteered to work as a field marshal with the Oak Ridges Soccer Club to help marshal the safety of players, parents, club staff, and members of the community during this public health crisis.
What do you hope to accomplish this school year?
I hope to maintain a good average in my studies as it’s online this school year and continue to be involved in volunteering.
Domenico participating in a basketball shoot-out that he organized with two fellow students in order to raise money for homeless youth in the GTA. All money was donated to Covenant House.
Domenico with his mom and dad, Leonardo Verduci, Property Valuation Analyst, in the Richmond Hill office.