Two EngSci alumnae were among this year’s recipients of the Engineering Alumni Network (EAN) Impact Awards. The awards recognize influential leaders and changemakers whose vision and innovation create positive global change and inspire future generations.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award recognizes a U of T Engineering graduate early in their career, who has achieved outstanding professional achievements and/or had an impact on their field. Nominees may be working within or outside of engineering but must demonstrate impact in their field with the likelihood of continued growth. Nominees should be 40 years of age or younger in the nomination year.
Serena Mandla (EngSci 1T7, BME MASc 1T9) is a biomedical engineer, entrepreneur and leader dedicated to turning research discoveries into healthcare solutions. As chief scientific officer of Quthero Inc., a company spun out of her graduate research, she helped develop regenerative biomaterials for wound healing and led the commercialization of products that support skin recovery.
In 2022, Mandla co-founded Noa Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for complex immune diseases. Under her leadership, the company secured an oversubscribed pre-seed financing round in 2023 to advance its lead drug candidate for inflammatory conditions, including atopic dermatitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Through mentorship, speaking and community initiatives, Mandla supports aspiring engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her career demonstrates the power of engineering innovation to improve health and create meaningful societal impact.
Citizenship Award
This award honours a graduate or group of graduates who have made a significant impact on the U of T Engineering community through their volunteer contributions or philanthropic vision. Through their leadership, they have enriched the lives of others with generous gifts of time, talent and/or financial support.
Isi Caulder (EngSci 8T9, ECE MASc 9T1, JD 9T5) is an intellectual property lawyer and patent agent whose dedication to mentorship, service and alumni engagement has enriched the U of T Engineering community for more than a decade.
Since 2014, Caulder has mentored student founders through the Entrepreneurship Hatchery, guiding them on IP strategy, fundraising, partnerships, commercialization and developing the confidence needed to turn innovative ideas into impactful ventures. She has also served on the Engineering Alumni Network board, helped establish the longstanding Engineering Science alumni pub nights and co-chaired the ECE Critical Connect Conference, bringing together students, alumni, faculty and industry leaders. She is a dedicated advocate for women in engineering, advancing mentorship and inclusion throughout the profession.
Through her generosity, leadership and service, Caulder exemplifies the spirit of citizenship and lifelong engagement that inspires future generations of engineers.