Rhodora Meliton-Vanderpool.
Rhodora Meliton-Vanderpool, BEd’99, wins Western Alumni Award of Merit
Rhodora Meliton-Vanderpool, BA’98, BEd’99, has been named an Award of Merit recipient as part of the 2026 Western Alumni Awards program. Meliton-Vanderpool will recieve the Community Service Award at Western Alumni's annual awards celebration on September 26, 2026 in honour of her exceptional contributions to her community through dedicated service and leadership. Alumni who are granted the Community Service Award are distinguished graduates who have significantly enriched the lives of others through their meaningful involvement with civic initiatives, charitable organizations, social causes and humanitarian efforts.
Meliton-Vanderpool is an educator, community pillar, author and arts leader who has dedicated more than 25 years to serving students and families in the Rexdale, Toronto neighbourhood. She has demonstrated outstanding commitment to community initiatives and is highly regarded for creating inclusive spaces that empower generations of students and colleagues to prioritize education, wellness and identity.
Meliton-Vanderpool began her educational journey at Western in 1995, studying for her bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology. She immersed herself in campus life through organizations including the Pre-Law Society, Pre-Education Society, the Filipino Student Association and the Caribbean Student Organization. Following graduation, she specialized in health and physical education at the University of Toronto. Returning to Western to complete her bachelor of education, Meliton-Vanderpool served as co-chair of the faculty’s equity and diversity committee and volunteered with the London Multicultural Youth Association.
Meliton-Vanderpool began her teaching career in primary and junior grades with the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) – one of the largest school boards in Canada. In addition to teaching every grade from kindergarten to grade eight, she has served numerous committees aimed at advancing equity, promoting inclusion and improving conditions for students and teachers in the TCDSB.
Music has remained central to Meliton-Vanderpool’s professional journey. As a member of the board of directors for Women in Music Canada, she is committed to creating opportunities for women in the arts and encourages the next generation of leaders and creators. She is also the host and executive producer of The Class Act Podcast which showcases people who shape students’ lives through encouragement, creativity and compassion.
During the pandemic, Meliton-Vanderpool created Learning with Mrs. Vanderschool, a television program developed exclusively for students and families navigating uncertainty. Through reading, singing, wellness activities and accessible learning, the program was recognized by the National Film Board of Canada, where she also served as a panelist on its education and media advisory board.
Meliton-Vanderpool has held numerous leadership and advocacy roles in equity, diversity and inclusion. She has served as councillor and third vice-president of her sub-unit in our Toronto Elementary Catholic Teachers. She has also served as committee chair for Educational Aid where she supported Truth and Reconciliation initiatives, educational opportunities for girls and programs that uplift marginalized communities in Canada and around the world.
Meliton-Vanderpool is co-author of the children’s book Stick to Your Vision: Young Maestro Goes to School, alongside Juno Award-winning artist Wes “Maestro” Williams, which emphasizes the importance of elementary school teachers. Her second children’s book, Ajay’s Dreams, was co-written with Juno-nominated artist DJ Charlie B and inspires young readers to confidently pursue their passions.
Meliton-Vanderpool’s engagement with Western is lifelong. She serves on the education advisory council under the leadership of Dean Donna Kotsopoulos, PhD. This initiative focuses on research, evidence-based teaching practices, community partnerships, student well-being, equity and systemic change. She has also spoken during alumni teacher appreciation events, offers mentorship to current education students and remains involved with Western’s Homecoming events.
Meliton-Vanderpool wholeheartedly believes parents are an individual’s first teachers. Leading by example as a mother of two, her drive to uplift others has made an indelible difference in the lives of students, fellow educators and community leaders. She has demonstrated that diversity and inclusion are not simply ideals – they are catalysts for change.
This profile was originally posted by Western Alumni.
