Raphaelle joined the University of Toronto in 2020 as the Information Systems Security Manager at SciNet, where she implemented various security measures and strengthened U of T’s partnership with the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. When she joined the Information Security team in 2022, I was thrilled to have her on board. Raphaelle brought energy and structure to our projects, and I knew I could always rely on her. As the manager of strategic execution, she has been instrumental in driving initiatives such as Endpoint Protection and Security Awareness Training.

Raphaelle has not only advanced the University’s information security strategy but also built strong relationships. Her dedication to her team is a hallmark of her exceptional leadership. As an approachable and encouraging mentor in the ITS Buddy Program, she has been a source of inspiration and support to new ITS team members. The Information Security team will fondly remember the potluck lunches and happy hours that Raphaelle organized.

As Raphaelle moves back to France to be closer to her family, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for all your incredible contributions to the University. Your impact has been profound, and you will be deeply missed. All the best for what comes next.

Kalyani Khati
Associate Director, Information Security Strategic Initiatives

I had the privilege of starting at U of T in 2020, working for SciNet Supercomputer. My initial responsibility was to build the SciNet cyber security program and collaborate with other members of the National Security Council to establish the National Cybersecurity Plan for the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. Later, I took on the exciting challenge of driving progress on the institutional security strategic initiatives in support of the strategy for the University.

The culture of collaboration and openness is probably what stood out the most. There are so many opportunities to grow and learn from others. Knowledge and expertise are shared with generosity. This is the strength of this community.

If I had to pick one thing, it would be about leadership – specifically active listening. Active listening is hard, but you must truly listen to bring change. This includes welcoming feedback and sometimes having difficult conversations that may make you completely revisit your perspective. This is why it is also very powerful!

Driving progress on the institutional security strategic initiatives is not something that can be done in isolation. It requires a lot of collaboration, consultation, community engagement and consensus building.

In particular, I am proud that we have established a solid foundation for endpoint protection detection and response and for the Security Awareness and Training Program.

Of course, there is more to do, and I trust the team will keep the ball rolling, continue to take action and deliver aligned results.

The people! There is a strong sense of community here. I was lucky to build deep relationships over the years. These are not going away, and we will stay in touch in a different capacity.

One of the recognition ceremonies we held for the Security Awareness and Training program. We had prepared some rewards to thank people for their commitment to cyber security (branded T-shirts, mugs and plaques). Seeing all the people there, with their enthusiasm and smiles, was extremely rewarding. This reflected the vision for our security strategy: Secure Together!

First, I cannot express enough how deeply grateful I am for having worked at the University of Toronto and for everything Canada brought to me. It will always be home to me.

As I embark upon a new journey, I am most excited about being closer to family and reconnecting with loved ones in Europe.

All the things I have learned at U of T, including all the great memories, I am bringing them along with me.

Thank you.