Alumni of Honour Award 2024

Barbara Salsberg Mathews, smiling and wearing a magenta top with a colorful scarf, standing outdoors in front of a background filled with yellow flowering branches.

Barbara Salsberg Mathews Honoured with 2024 Alumni of Honour Award 

The University of Guelph is proud to announce Barbara Salsberg Mathews (BA ’83) as the recipient of the 2024 Alumni of Honour Award. A lifelong advocate for the arts and an inspiring force in the fight against Parkinson’s Disease, Barbara has dedicated her life to enriching her community through creativity and compassion.   

Barbara’s connection to the University of Guelph began during her undergraduate studies, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts and met her future husband while he was DJing at the Bullring. Her passion for art and education led to a distinguished career with the Toronto District School Board, culminating in her role as Head of Visual Arts at Northern Secondary School. Her influence as an educator left a lasting impact, nurturing the talents of countless students. 

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2020, Barbara transformed a personal challenge into a platform for helping others. She created the innovative “Mime over Mind” program, which blends her background in mime with therapeutic techniques to support those living with Parkinson’s. This program has gained international recognition and is now part of the University of Guelph’s new Bachelor of Creative Arts, Health, and Wellness degree. 

Barbara’s commitment to community extends beyond her work with Parkinson’s support. She and her husband Bruce co-founded the “Pay It Forward Arts Fund,” supporting local artists in creating community-benefiting projects. During the pandemic, she authored “Kid COVID Fights Back!” a free downloadable comic book to help children navigate COVID-19’s challenges.   

Recognized by YMCA Three Rivers as a Woman of Distinction and by Parkinson’s Europe as one of their top inspiring women, Barbara Salsberg Mathews exemplifies the spirit of service and creativity that defines the University of Guelph. Her achievements inspire and uplift those around her, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award. 