68th Garnet Key cohort

Francesca Rondeau Rodriguez – President

My name is Francesca Rondeau Rodriguez, and I have the honour of serving as the President of the Garnet Key Society.

I was born and raised in El Salvador, carrying the cultural richness of a Québécois father and a Salvadoran mother, a heritage that shaped my resilience and love for community. Thus, fluent in English, Spanish, French, and American Sign Language, I moved to Montreal to pursue a Specialization in Psychology with double minors in Law & Society and Business Studies at Concordia University; a versatile academic path that reflects my curiosity and adaptability, qualities that guide my leadership.

Growing up in El Salvador shaped my understanding of philanthropy as a responsibility, and at its heart is my mother, the first female audiologist in Latin America, and her lifelong work with the Starkey Hearing Foundation, which has donated over 1.5 million hearing aids worldwide. I grew up among these missions, became an academic mission coordinator building volunteering alliances across Central America, and was later accredited under the WFA model to fit hearing aids. Now, as an Assistant Mission Coordinator, I help lead missions, overseeing fittings, logistics, and team/volunteer training. Through this partnership, I was initiated as an honorary member of Delta Zeta, a U.S. sorority whose philanthropy supports global hearing health. Mentoring and empowering young women through these missions remains one of my greatest honours.

My passion for advocacy led me to the Government of El Salvador to serve my people as a Junior Attaché to the Secretary of State and later as the Legal Assistant to the Executive Director of CONAPINA, contributing to legal research and policy efforts protecting youth nationwide. I further fortified my legal foundation as a Teaching Assistant in Business Law for Professor Papatheodorakos at Dawson, McGill and Concordia. Balancing both legal systems, Canadian and Salvadoran, deepened my understanding of justice, ethics, and leadership.

Leaving behind lifelong projects in El Salvador made me feel disconnected from the purpose that grounded me. Until I discovered the Garnet Key Society, a community where my passion for service could once again thrive. Here, I found peers whose dedication mirrors my own, and together, I am confident that we will leave a mark of excellence, compassion, and unity on Concordia’s legacy.

It is truly my greatest honor to be the first Salvadoran member and president of this honor society!

Yohan Henriques –
Vice President

I am Yohan Henriques, a third-year Biochemistry student aspiring for admission into a Medical School, and the father of my beautiful Cecilia. My blend of analytical training, leadership experience, and hands-on patient care shape how I approach life, relationships, and our community. My recent introduction into fatherhood further deepens my commitment to building a healthier future for everyone. I am extremely passionate about science and healthcare, driven by curiosity and a desire to translate research and years of experience into real-world care.

As a teenager, I trained with the Royal Canadian Army Cadets and later graduated from John Molson School of Business with a Major in Accounting. I have completed the CFA Level 1 exam and finished my CPA studies with a focus on Audit and Canadian taxation. During the pandemic, I met my wife and was inspired to switch into science. I have never looked back since! I started volunteering at a hospital with palliative patients, serving as an emergency first responder, and mentoring a person on the spectrum during basketball practice. Those ongoing experiences taught me discipline, organizational rigour, crisis management, and how to communicate patiently and effectively with a broad range of people. My exposure has given me a unique perspective on life, affording me a depth of knowledge, maturity, and wisdom.

I joined the Garnet Key Society to share my experience and positive energy with the student body and to advance a vision for meaningful, scalable change. My proficiency in business and science has equipped me to think strategically, while my clinical experience and first responder training keep my priorities grounded in human impact. I strive to transform individual acts of service into coordinated initiatives that provide large-scale benefits to our student body and our community.

I endeavour to lead my team toward measurable, attainable success by setting clear goals, modelling accountability, and fostering an environment where members feel motivated and supported. I will focus on building courage and resilience in others, so they can pursue their own ambitious projects while overcoming obstacles that initially seemed impossible. I commit to practical planning, empathetic mentorship, and delivering results that reflect both compassion and competence!

I am a father first, a student second, and a proud Garnet Key member all the way!

Alma Midany – Secretary

My name is Alma, and I am a fourth-year student pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a minor in Multidisciplinary Science. I was born and raised in Damascus, Syria, and my journey has been shaped by a strong curiosity and passion for learning across diverse fields. I currently serve as the secretary of the Garnet Key Society, an opportunity that allows me to contribute to our community while developing leadership and organizational skills.

I began my academic path as a Biochemistry major but later transitioned to Computer Science, drawn by my love for problem-solving, logic, and coding. This shift has allowed me to combine analytical thinking with creativity, both in my studies and in extracurricular activities. Over the years, I have actively participated in robotics competitions, mathematics olympiads, and several international debating championships, experiences that have honed my critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills.

In addition, I am a member of MedSpecs, a club that reflects my continued interest in the medical field and my pre-medical aspirations. Outside of academics, I enjoy painting, baking, and reading, which provide balance and inspiration in my daily life. These hobbies allow me to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and maintain a sense of curiosity and creativity in all that I do.

Being part of Garnet Key has been an enriching experience, enabling me to engage with a community of driven, thoughtful individuals. I am committed to supporting our society’s mission and contributing meaningfully through my role as secretary, while continuing to grow as a student, leader, and lifelong learner.

Richard Badir – Treasurer

My name is Richard and I am a 4th year software engineering student. I am excited to work as the Treasurer for the Garnet Key Society to help contribute to our communities!

In the past, I have done volunteer work at a horse shelter, Héma-Québec, and my high school. I was also meant to go on a humanitarian trip to Ecuador which unfortunately got canceled the week before, because of rising political tensions in the country.

These experiences have given me the opportunity to see how much it is rewarding to contribute towards a good cause. As I am coming to the end of my university years, I decided that part of getting the most of my last year would be to participate in a society such as the Garnet Key that would let me get involved within the community and make new friends!

As the Treasurer of the Garnet Key Society, I wish to contribute and help bring to life all of the different events organized by this society. By keeping track of the budget, I want to maximize the impact of all of the Garnet Key events. Beyond budget management, I also aim to build stronger partnerships with local organizations and ensure that every event is both meaningful and financially sustainable. I hope these efforts will create lasting memories and help build on the Garnet Key Society’s proud legacy and ensure a positive trajectory for years to come.

Anna-Sumiko Desfretier – Recruitment Chairperson

My name is Anna-Sumiko Desfretier, and I am a second-year Political Science student with a minor in Sociology. Having lived in France, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and now Canada, I’ve grown up navigating the spaces between cultures, sometimes observing, sometimes translating, and always learning. These experiences have made identity a central part of how I understand the world. They’ve taught me that belonging isn’t fixed to one place or culture; it’s something we build together through empathy, dialogue, and shared purpose.

At Concordia University, I’ve been grateful to find a community that embraces these same values. As President of Heart for Africa, I’ve taken on the responsibility of guiding a team that organizes fundraising and awareness initiatives supporting hunger relief, education, and poverty reduction in Eswatini. Through pop-up stores, themed events, and ongoing outreach, we’ve raised funds for sustainable development projects, but more importantly, we’ve built a small community united by compassion. This role has shown me that leadership is not about being at the center, but about creating space for others to contribute and grow. I’ve learned that meaningful change starts with truly listening to the people around us.

Outside of Concordia, I’ve continued to find meaning in small acts of service. In France, I volunteered as an English tutor for young children, and in Japan, I helped organize weekly beach clean-ups in Fukuoka. These moments reminded me that community work doesn’t have to be grand to matter. What unites people is not the scale of the effort, but the shared belief that we can make a difference as a community.

In high school, I served as Vice President of the Model United Nations club, where I helped introduce new francophone debaters to international dialogue and co-organized our annual conference. It was an experience that strengthened my communication and teamwork skills and deepened my appreciation for collective problem-solving, the idea that understanding grows when we bring many voices to the table.

As a Recruitment Co-Chairperson for the Garnet Key Society, I hope to help shape a space where the next cohort feels seen, supported, and inspired. The Society’s values of diversity, community, and academic excellence mirror the principles that guide me personally. I want to continue learning from others, from their stories, struggles, and strengths, to help build a community that reminds us that identity, in all its complexity, is something that connects.

Lila-Rose Offman – Recruitment Chairperson

My name is Lila-Rose Offman, and I am so excited to be this year’s Recruitment Chairperson alongside my Co-Chair, Anna. 

I grew up in Toronto, Ontario, where I attended a school that was primarily focused on community work through outdoor education. I was fortunate enough to participate in rebuilding a school in Jaco, Costa Rica; with the support of our teachers, we were able to create an entirely new educational experience for the children. We also had the opportunity to visit Kyuquot, an Indigenous reserve off the coast of Vancouver Island. During this visit, we collaborated with the local school in order to develop the younger students' English literary skills. I was lucky enough to be immersed in the beauty of native culture, where they taught us about their own customs and values. Experiences like these pushed me outside my echo chamber and shaped my continuous love for connecting with people whose stories differ from my own. Growing and learning from others has become core to who I am. 

I am currently in my third year of studies at the one-of-a-kind Liberal Arts College within Concordia University. Concordia has inspired an immense passion for the literary canon, including aspects such as the classics, the history of science and art, ancient politics and philosophy. While my academic pursuits are extremely fulfilling, my lifelong need for a platform to engage and contribute to my community persisted.

In my first year of university, my dad was diagnosed with two variants of cancer. This was devastating for my family and me. Rather than letting it consume me, I channeled my energy into something bigger than myself. The following year, I received a letter from the Garnet Key Society; I knew it was my chance to take part in something meaningful. This year, the Garnet Key has partnered with the Quebec Cancer Foundation, a cause very dear to my heart. The Foundation has multiple housing lodges across Quebec, giving families like mine a place to breathe, knowing their loved one is cared for.

I’ve always believed that struggle can be turned into empathy, drive and courage. Being part of the Honours Society has let me put that belief into meaningful practice. Being on the recruitment team, especially, is a chance for me to hear your stories, because the Garnet Key is at its best when it reflects the unique paths each of us has taken.

Justin Drysdale – Community Chairperson

I am a second-year student striving to make a positive change in my community, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to do so with the Garnet Key Society.

I have aligned myself with the values of leadership and service ever since joining a leadership program in high school, designed for high-achieving IB students. The relationship-building, integrity, and dependability I learned from that program laid the foundation for everything I have accomplished since.

After high school, I spent 3 years at a summer camp for underprivileged youth, a role that I quickly fell in love with. Leading activities for groups of over 100 people honed my leadership skills and stoked my burning passion for community work. I am eternally grateful to the youth I worked with for teaching me as much as I taught them. Additionally, teaching at English and Lithuanian schools only further verified what I knew I was born to do.

My journey as a teacher has involved viewing life through diverse cultural perspectives, which has become a driving force in how I operate. Seeing the struggles of youth from disadvantaged circumstances has driven me to advocate for equal opportunity for the underprivileged. That being said, I am eager to spend this year working with the Quebec Cancer Foundation to support cancer patients who are struggling to have their needs met, and I am honoured to be working alongside my fellow talented and intelligent Keys. I eagerly anticipate the lessons I will learn from them and the unity we will cultivate in the community this year.

Matthew McGee – Community Chairperson

My name is Matthew McGee, and I’m a second-year Honours student in Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology at Concordia University with a Minor in Multidisciplinary Studies in Science. My academic journey has been driven by a deep interest in human health, research and community impact.

Before joining the Garnet Key Society, I was involved in a variety of experiences that strengthened my passion for service and leadership. I volunteered as a hospital aide and dementia companion at Ste. Anne’s Hospital, where I witnessed the importance of empathy and meaningful human connection in healthcare. I also work as a day camp manager during the summer, which has helped me develop organization, teamwork and communication skills while engaging directly with my local community. On campus, I’ve contributed to Dr. Phillips’ Cognition, Aging and Psychophysiology Lab, conducting research on cognitive health and aging, an experience that has further inspired my long-term goal of pursuing medicine.

These experiences naturally drew me to the Garnet Key as its mission of leadership, excellence and service aligns perfectly with my values. I wanted to be part of a group that not only represents academic excellence but also gives back to the community in a meaningful way.

As Community Project Chairperson for the 68th cohort, I co-lead the community project committee, which oversees a range of initiatives throughout the year. Our work includes organizing volunteer opportunities, supporting Concordia-affiliated associations and coordinating fundraisers for a meaningful cause. My goal is to foster collaboration within our team and ensure that every project strengthens our connection to the Montreal community while embodying the spirit of compassion and service that defines the Garnet Key.

Mara Tartamella – Banquet Chairperson

I am an honours student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Behavioural Neuroscience. I grew up in an Indian-Italian family in Montréal. My Canadian identity has made me hyperaware of how family, culture, and community shape the way we see ourselves and others. I have a deep desire to become a changemaker, someone who can actively help shape a better future. Growing up in Montréal, I’ve been inspired by the multilingual and multicultural community we have here. I aspire to keep our diverse community strong and thriving.

At Concordia, my academic and extracurricular work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, mental health, and sustainability. As one of the founders of the Concordia Neuroscience Society, I help create a space where students who are curious about neuroscience can connect beyond the classroom. We have fostered a space where students can share knowledge and see how research links back to real-world issues.

Environmental responsibility is a value I live by. I have been actively involved in campus initiatives that address both the climate crisis and its psychological impact on students. This has included co-founding an eco-anxiety support space and contributing to projects that promote more sustainable, community-oriented practices on campus. Sustainability is not only about reducing harm to the environment, but also about cultivating cultures of care, reciprocity, and long-term thinking.

The Garnet Key Society offers an opportunity to collaborate with other students who are equally committed to service and to represent Concordia with integrity. It is exciting to join a legacy of community-oriented people and to represent a university that has given me so many opportunities to give back and learn to be better.

Maame Nsiah – Banquet Chairperson

My name is Maame Nsiah, and I am currently in my fourth year of Human Relations, specializing in Organizational Development. This program has equipped with the skills to facilitate change in a constantly evolving world and has fueled my passion for helping people.

Moreover, my eagerness to serve community began early on. At my childhood church, the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church of Montreal, I supported the Sunday school teachers by helping care for the younger children.

Once I arrived at Concordia, I was determined to get involved in the community. I sought to actively be apart of student associations such as the African Student Association of Concordia (ASAC)and the Black Student Career Development organization(BSCD) where I contributed to their missions of creating safe spaces for black students at Concordia to network. My role as the Internal Coordinator for BSCD enriched my experience at Concordia, allowing me to contribute to an organization that fostered meaningful career opportunities for students through events that welcomed over 120 attendees.

Reflecting on my experiences at Concordia, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities to engage in student life and community involvement. These experiences have allowed me to be inspired by the many people I’ve encounter and grow to become a wiser individual.

I am incredibly excited to be part of the 68th cohort and serve as the Banquet Chairperson. I look forward to bringing my ideas and vision to celebrate the society and leave a lasting legacy.

I hope that my time in this cohort will enable me to continue caring for others and contribute to our community in meaningful ways.

Nadezhda (Nadia) Velchovska – Marketing Coordinator

I’m Nadia, a fourth-year Honours Psychology student at Concordia University and a member of the Science College. I come from Bulgaria, where my full name, Nadezhda, means “hope.” In many ways, that meaning has followed me through every chapter of my life. Moving to Canada at a young age taught me the importance of community, connection, and being there for one another during moments of uncertainty. Those early experiences shaped not only my resilience, but also my belief that hope is something we build together through accessible opportunities and advocacy.

My commitment to community is is reflected in my sustained involvement in mental-health and youth-focused initiatives. As a Peer Educator with the addiction prevention center, Maison Jean Lapointe, I delivered harm-reduction workshops in Montreal high schools, working directly with youth on prevention and awareness. I have also volunteered as a Crisis Responder with Kids Help Phone, supporting youth during some of their most vulnerable moments. Most recently, I joined Fancy Therapy, where I contributed to mental-health outreach by writing blogs, managing social media and assisting with administrative support aimed at improving access to mental-health resources.

Research is also an important part of my journey.  I have worked in several labs across Concordia, McGill, and UQAM, exploring topics such as substance-use motives, health behaviours and intuitive decision-making. These experiences showed me how powerful research can be when it is inclusive, ethical, and accessible. That realization has guided much of my campus involvement. At Concordia, I served as Vice President of Communications for the Science College Student Association, where I strengthened student engagement and supported the organization and promotion of the BOLD Science Conference. I also co-founded the Concordia Neuroscience Society to create a space where neuroscience students feel represented, supported, and empowered to connect with research. Alongside this, I have been invited by the Concordia Undergraduate Psychology Association to host the Research 101 workshop on several occasions, supporting students as they learn how to pursue research positions and develop confidence in their academic journeys.

Joining the Garnet Key Society has allowed me to work alongside peers who deeply care about their community and whose values closely align with those that guide my work and involvement. I am proud to contribute to initiatives designed to extend beyond our years as students. Through this work, I aim to honour the meaning of my name and the legacy we are building together.

Ayan Asgarli – Outreach and Alumni Officer

My name is Ayan Asgarli, and I have the honour of serving as the Alumni & Outreach Officer for the 68th cohort of the Garnet Key Society. I am currently in my second year, majoring in Biology at Concordia University.

I was born into a Baháʼí family in Baku, Azerbaijan, and it has been my lifelong dream to pursue higher education in North America. Moving to Canada on my own was a transformative experience filled with both challenges and growth. Through it all, I remained guided by a clear vision: to obtain an excellent education and build a career in medicine that allows me to serve others meaningfully.

The principles of service, the pursuit of knowledge, and meaningful contribution to public discourse, especially in the area of gender equality, have deeply shaped my life. Both in Azerbaijan and here in Montreal, I dedicate much of my time to collaborating with youth to identify community needs and contribute to social progress. I believe lasting transformation begins with small, consistent acts of service. This belief guided me while mentoring adolescents for four years and during my participation in the UN’s 67th Commission on the Status of Women in New York, where I learned from diverse global perspectives.

As the eldest of four siblings, I am constantly inspired by my family’s love and encouragement to embody perseverance, humility, and a strong work ethic. Living in Montreal reminds me daily of the beauty of unity in diversity and the strength of collective kindness.

Being part of the Garnet Key Society perfectly aligns with my values and aspirations. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the Concordia community and to continue building upon the Society’s enduring legacy alongside my fellow Keys.