Sheila Colla Obituary: Associate Professor in York University Passes Away
Sheila Colla Obituary: Associate Professor at York University Passes Away
Toronto, ON – July 2025 — The academic and environmental communities are mourning the unexpected passing of Dr. Sheila Colla, a respected associate professor in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change at York University, Toronto. Known for her passionate advocacy for pollinator conservation and biodiversity, Dr. Colla’s death marks a significant loss to both the university and the broader scientific world.
Who Was Sheila Colla?
Sheila Colla was a trailblazer in environmental science and sustainability. As an assistant professor at York University, she devoted her career to understanding and protecting pollinators, especially bees, and advocating for evidence-based environmental policies. Her work focused on issues at the intersection of ecology, conservation biology, and climate change adaptation.
Colla worked closely with environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs) and various government agencies to ensure that the best available science informed land-use policy, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity protection efforts across Canada.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Impact
Dr. Colla’s research significantly contributed to public understanding of native bee populations and their crucial role in ecosystems. She was a co-author of several landmark studies on pollinator decline and a prominent voice in discussions about species at risk, environmental justice, and Indigenous land rights.
Her commitment extended beyond academia—Sheila was a sought-after speaker, mentor, and collaborator. She often engaged with community-based conservation efforts, citizen science projects, and policy-making bodies to drive real-world change.
Tributes and Reactions
Colleagues and students at York University describe her as brilliant, compassionate, and fearless—a scientist who cared deeply not just about her research, but about the people and communities it affected.
“Sheila was not only a brilliant researcher but a mentor and an advocate for ethical science and environmental justice. Her voice will be deeply missed,” said a colleague from the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change.
Social media platforms were flooded with messages of condolence and gratitude from students, academics, activists, and members of the environmental community who had worked with her.
A Deep Loss for Science and Society
Sheila Colla’s death is a profound loss to environmental science, especially at a time when ecological advocacy and research are more critical than ever. Her work helped shape national conversations on climate change, habitat loss, and the protection of endangered species.
Her passing leaves behind a legacy of activism, scholarship, and determination that will continue to inspire scientists and conservationists for years to come.
Survived By
Dr. Sheila Colla is survived by family members, friends, colleagues, and a wide-reaching network of admirers and collaborators. Memorial service details have not yet been made public. The university has announced that it will host a celebration of her life and contributions later this summer.