Maria Assunta Cuffaro PhD, CCC, MCW, TPN, CCC (CCPA Reg.Ont.) was nominated for the Governor General's Gold Medal as the best Ph.D. thesis in the Humanities for the entire University. Her research was one of only two theses to receive this nomination from her Faculty in the last two years. It is an example of superior research. In her entire academic studies she was in the top 1%. Professor and Former Director or Graduate Studies and Retired Professors.

Maria Assunta Cuffaro PhD, CCC, MCW, TPN, CCC (CCPA Reg.Ont.)  was also nominated and recognized by The Ottawa Italian Women's Filo for the Volunteer Efforts she has done for the community.