A Farewell to Antonietta Morra

After 34 years, I am retiring from the University of Toronto due to organizational restructuring. During my time in the department, I have served as the Department Secretary and Receptionist, supporting faculty, instructors, staff, students and alumni throughout my career. 

Let’s take you back to before my time at the UofT. I worked at St. Michael’s Hospital on the Psychiatric Ward, 2D North. Around that time, I took an evening course at Centennial College. Little did I know that decision would change the direction of my life. While in the course, I had the pleasure of meeting and befriending my instructor, Marie Leverman, who told me about the job opening at UofT. Thanks to her encouragement, I applied, went for the interview, and as they say, the rest is history. 

It's 1990 and I still remember walking into the Old Church at College and Elizabeth Street where the Department was housed then. I was warmly welcomed by Dr. Bernard O’Keefe, a moment I will always cherish. Alongside him, I also had the privilege of meeting Professor Jean F. Walker, who not only brought warmth and wisdom, but also the first SLP Chair of the department. That day remains a special memory for me. 

During my time here, I’ve also been fortunate enough to work in three different building locations starting with the Old Church (College and Elizabeth), the Tanz Building (Queen’s Park and College Street) and now at 500 University Avenue. It has been an incredibly rewarding journey – one that I will never forget. 

I have also witnessed the growth of our student cohorts. When I first started, each class had 20 students. Over time, the number grew to 40 and now to 60. It has been a pleasure to see the department expand and welcome more students each year. 

Over my 34 years, I have had the privilege of working with six department Chairs, starting with Drs. Paula A. Square, Luc De Nil, Luigi Girolametto, Elizabeth Rochon, Pascal van Lieshout and now Rosemary Martino. Each of them has brought their own leadership, vision, and dedication to the department. I feel truly grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside them. 

Since relocating to 500 University Avenue, I’ve had the pleasure of developing a friendship with these two incredible individuals, Jean (Concierge) and Williams (Custodian). They have always been supportive and willing to help whenever I needed assistance, and I want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank them for all they do. 

I want to take a moment to sincerely acknowledge and thank the incredible faculty, instructors, staff, students, and alumni of the Rehabilitation Sciences Sector whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. The friendships and camaraderie we’ve built have meant so much to me, and I deeply appreciate the kindness, support, and collegial spirit that have made my time here so special. 

I’ve been known as the person who always makes sure the plants are well-watered and thriving. When a faculty member or staff is away, I make it a point to ensure their plants are watered. At one point, I was gifted with a beautiful ponytail plant by Dr. Alice Eriks Brophy – a thoughtful gesture. I plan to cherish that plant in my home as a reminder of my time here. 

Supporting the department has always been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding parts of my role. Whether it’s answering a question, handling mail and deliveries, fixing the photocopy machine, solving a problem, providing information or simply being a listening ear, I’ve always found joy in assisting others and it has been my pleasure to be a reliable source of support. 

I have also earned a reputation in the department as the “yes person” because I never hesitate to offer my help. Professor Jennifer Wadds has referred to me as such, and it is a label I wear with pride. Additionally, Professor Susan J. Wagner has always called me the “keystone” of the department, a title that I am truly honored to receive. These words mean a great deal to me and highlight the role I’ve played in supporting the department over the years. 

On a personal note, I am also blessed with a wonderful family. I have two incredible children - my daughter, Anna, and my son, Michael. And I am also thrilled to share that I am now a proud Nonna to my beautiful grandson, Eliano. Family has always been so important to me, and I am especially grateful for the lifelong bond that I share with my twin sister, Pompea, and older brother, Felice. They have been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life, and I look forward to spending even more time with them, cherishing every moment together. 

I’ve always wanted to take a special, once-in-a-lifetime trip across Canada by Rail called the Rocky Mountaineer in honor of my father. In 1953, he arrived in Halifax from Italy and made his way up to Timmins, Ontario, before moving to Calgary to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway for three years. In 1956, he sponsored his wife and son to join him so that he could create a better life for his family. 

I am looking forward to embracing the freedom to explore new interests, discover what hobbies I might appreciate and simply enjoy life at a different pace. It’s a big change, but one I’m welcoming with excitement and gratitude. 

Thank you again for this feature and for giving me the opportunity to reflect on my journey - it’s been an incredible ride, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!”