All fur one and one fur all: Meet the pets of Shuffle 2025

For Shoghig Mikaelian, manager of operations in the Office of the Vice-President, Research, Innovation and Impact, the Shuffle is a cherished fall tradition.

“It brings together colleagues to walk together for a good cause and it’s a chance to catch up in a relaxed and fun environment,” she says.

She is often joined by her sidekick, Candy, who loves the attention from participants — and eating hot dogs at the community picnic.

This year, Candy takes on a new role as team captain of Candy’s Shufflers.

“I’ve seen how successful fundraisers can be when pets are involved,” says Mikaelian. “Having Candy as the face of my team felt like a fun way to give back to Concordia.”

The Shuffle also holds personal significance for Mikaelian: She once received a Shuffle scholarship during her PhD studies. “It was special to know I benefited from an award based on individual donations. Now I want to pay it forward and help students who need it.”

Jessie and Diane

“Jessie always stands out in a crowd because she wears shoes outside,” says Diane Leyland, BFA 95, web and user interface designer and member of the UCS Web Crawlers team.

More than a fashion statement, Jessie’s boots protect her from injury. Jessie was born with Acral Mutilation Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that reduces pain sensitivity in her paws. But that doesn’t stop her from enjoying a good walk.

On a typical Shuffle, she and Leyland often double the distance by walking back downtown after reaching Loyola — a memory Leyland cherishes.

“I love seeing my old girl make it all the way, people asking to take her photo and seeing the smiles she brings to their faces.”

For Leyland, Jessie makes the experience even more meaningful. “She starts conversations because of her boots and her smile. She’s just the biggest love bug with humans and dogs.”

Newton and Darren

At just two-and-a-half years old, Newton is already a campus celebrity. As Concordia’s resident therapy dog — often called a “walking serotonin dispenser” — he spends his days helping students decompress with his calm and friendly presence.

After cheering from the sidelines in past Shuffles, this year Newton will walk the full route with Team Newton and the CSPS Pawtrol.

For Darren Dumoulin, director of Campus Safety and Prevention Services, Newton’s involvement is an extension of the department’s mission.

“It’s all about student engagement,” he says. “Participating in the Shuffle demonstrates that we’re committed to supporting them.”