First PhD in Management graduate wins TMU Gold Medal

During her time as a student at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Dr. Charlie Wall-Andrews has earned an impressive number of accolades. And last week, she added to that list with Toronto Metropolitan University’s highest honour – the Gold Medal Award.

The Gold Medal is awarded to students with outstanding academic achievement and exceptional involvement in the university, their profession and their community. 

Wall-Andrews is a pioneer, graduating with the very first PhD in Management at the university. Her contributions to industry and academics have been recognized through prestigious awards such as being a Trudeau Scholar, receiving an SSHRC Doctoral Scholarship, being named as one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women and a Top 30 under 30 in Canada by Corporate Knights. Her research and dissertation explored entrepreneurial ecosystems, identity and trajectories with an equity-sensitive perspective in the Canadian music industry, and she serves as both a new faculty member (Assistant Professor in Music at TMU) and as Vice-Chair for Music Canada's advisory council.

Here is what she had to say about her time at TMU, receiving the award and her future plans: 

1. What was your program? 

PhD in Management specializing in Strategy, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at Ted Rogers School of Management 

2. How does it feel to be the first graduate of Ted Rogers School’s PhD in Management program?

It feels incredibly rewarding to be the first graduate of the PhD in Management program. I'm proud to represent a program that is committed to pushing boundaries, and I hope my achievements inspire future students to pursue their own ambitious goals.

3. What does receiving the Gold Medal mean to you?

Receiving the TMU Gold Medal is an extraordinary honour, as it represents the highest recognition of academic excellence and leadership at Toronto Metropolitan University. It not only acknowledges the hard work and dedication invested in my studies, but also the meaningful contributions made to the university and broader community. For me, it symbolizes the trust and engagement my research required within Canada's music industry, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and help it reach its full potential. This achievement is a proud testament to both personal growth and the collective support of those who have guided and inspired me throughout this journey.

4. What advice would you give students entering their first year?

Trust the process.

5. Do you have any favourite classes/teachers, and what made them stand out?

Dr. Wendy Cukier was the best PhD supervisor and my favourite professor because of her unwavering commitment to my growth, both academically and professionally. Her visionary leadership and expertise in innovation and diversity made her an invaluable mentor, constantly challenging me to think critically, push boundaries, and approach my research with a fresh, inclusive perspective. She not only supported my academic journey, but also inspired me to connect my work to real-world impact, especially within the music industry and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

I would also like to acknowledge Dr. Andre Laplume for his ongoing support as Program Director at the time. His guidance and encouragement throughout the program were instrumental in helping me stay focused and motivated, ensuring I had the resources and mentorship needed to succeed. Together, their influence shaped my PhD experience in the most profound way.

6. How did TMU support you during your time here?

TMU provided incredible support throughout my studies by offering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that encouraged both academic and personal growth. From access to world-class faculty and mentorship, like Dr. Wendy Cukier, to opportunities for hands-on research and industry engagement, TMU ensured that I had the resources needed to succeed. 

7. What are your future plans?

Professionally, my future plans focus on continuing to advance my work in the creative industries, particularly in the music sector, by fostering innovation, equity and entrepreneurship. I aim to expand my research on diversity and inclusion within entrepreneurial ecosystems while supporting artists and industry professionals through impactful programs. Additionally, I plan to further my academic career by pursuing opportunities that allow me to teach, mentor and collaborate on global initiatives, while also contributing to policy and advocacy efforts that shape a more inclusive and sustainable creative economy.