Madame Helen Vari, OISE Friend

We remember and honour the life of renowned philanthropist and tireless education advocate Madame Helen Vari (1931-2023). Together with her husband Dr. George Vari, Madam Vari supported hundreds of OISE students and aspiring teachers in our Master of Teaching and Master of Child Study in Education programs through The Vari Scholarships. 

OISE and the University of Toronto community deeply valued her friendship for over 27 years and how she went above and beyond to encourage students in that time.

“Scholarships touch students very closely,” said Erica Walker, dean of OISE, “and Mrs. Vari made these awards all the more memorable by forging a connection with each Vari Scholar. They knew first-hand she wanted to ensure that talented students with a passion for teaching get a fair chance to make a difference in their chosen fields. Every student she helped, and all of us at OISE, will always appreciate that.”

We invite you to read more about her life of giving, celebrating learning, honouring heritage, and growing a bright future: OISE and U of T remembers the extraordinary life of Madame Helen Vari