Maria Rizzo is a dedicated, compassionate, hard working Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) trustee and former North York city councillor. She is a proud wife, mother and daughter, and is a strong voice and fervent advocate for education, community empowerment and social justice.
Maria is passionate about her role as a school trustee with the TCDSB. This term Maria has held key positions of responsibility including Chair of the TCDSB. Since her last re-election, there are investments now topping $100 million in new schools, playgrounds and additions in our ward.
Maria’s parents immigrated to Canada from Reggio Calabria, Italy following the Second World War. They settled in Alberta, where Maria was born and relocated to downtown Toronto when she was four years old.
Maria later married Sam Iannelli in 1986 and they were blessed with a daughter, Samantha, who attended Catholic schools (St. Antoine Daniel Catholic School and Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts) located in the heart of North York. Maria served on the parent/guardian councils of both schools. Maria and her family have remained proud residents in our ward.
Maria holds a holds a BA, MA, and is a recipient of numerous community service awards.
Maria Rizzo has had a lifetime of public and community service. She worked with the Elizabeth Fry Society, Catholic Children’s Aid Society to name but two, and has served as Executive Director of several nonprofit organizations including Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. She served as Vice President of the National Congress of Italian Canadians, is a board member and volunteer of many charitable agencies as well as one of the founding members of the North York Community House.
Maria has worked with women’s organizations, health care, child care, youth and community agencies over the years and has held many volunteer roles. For several years, Maria also participated in a political panel on the CBC.
Among her many accomplishments, Maria is most proud of her leadership role in the Board-wide ban of plastic water bottles; the continuation of International Language programs; introduction of the sweatshop free policy and fighting the battle to ensure all students - regardless of race, gender, disability or economic status - are welcome and included in TCDSB schools.
Maria has set an example by cutting honorariums to save needed programs for students and parents. She has battled alongside families for more funds for lunchroom supervisors and much needed before and after school programs.
Once re-elected, Maria will continue to be a strong voice and passionate advocate for children, families and our community.
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