Academic life
Recipients in this category are involved outside of the classroom in faculty and/or student societies events and initiatives. They also:
- Encourage their peers to engage in faculty events.
- Demonstrate passion for the discipline.
- Take initiative in creating new opportunities.
Tyler Schmidt-Schaun
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to building an inclusive 91Ƶ campus community.
Actively participated in campus initiatives including College Royal (dairy and sheep showmanship) and Movember fundraiser “Pie Your Prof.”
Held multiple leadership and service roles:
President, DalOUTT (Oct 2022–Present)
President, Aquaculture Society (Sept 2023–Present)
Biology Tutor, BIOA1003 (Jan 2024–Present)
Member, WUSC Local Committee (Feb 2024–Present)
Student Representative, Accessibility in Course Design Policy Task Force
Achieved top-percentile academic performance across multiple courses.
Led Aquaculture Society initiatives including guest lectures, industry networking events, fish-themed trivia, aquatic art programming, and a salmon restocking/fin-clipping program.
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Halifax, Nova Scotia
Joined the program in 2024 and quickly became an active and valued contributor to the School of Architecture community.
Served in multiple roles including student representative, Open Doors volunteer, and event support for public lectures and school programming.
Assisted with organizing lecture series and public events, welcoming guests, managing logistics, and supporting event setup.
Demonstrateda strong senseof responsibility to the collective life of theschoolthrough consistent, hands-on involvement.
Contributed both through visible leadership and essential behind-the-scenes support.
Fostered a positive, collegial environment that encouraged peer support and collaboration.
Currently leading the development of a student-led publication,Studio East, creating a platform for student voices and dialogue.
- Demonstrated initiative, leadership, and commitment to community-building within the academic environment.
Maya Bellamy
Hanover, Ontario
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and sustained impact within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences through extensive involvement in faculty governance and student engagement.
Served in multiple leadership roles within the 91Ƶ Arts and Social Science Society, including two years as Vice President Academic and one year as President.
Represented students onnumerousfaculty committees, contributing toacademic development, equity and inclusion initiatives, student appeals processes, and teaching awardsdiscussions.
Led a major revitalization of the Arts and Social Science Society by strengthening executive coordination, improving outreach, and rebuilding relationships with departmental societies.
Significantly increased student engagement in faculty programming, from small gatherings to large events attended by hundreds of students.
Expanded support for departmental societies by relaunching the DASSS Council, improving grant access, and introducing shared resources to strengthen student initiatives.
Providedadditionalleadership through involvement with the International Development Education and Awareness Society, organizing programming focused on global awareness, dialogue, and community engagement.
- Demonstrated a sustained commitment to strengthening faculty community, governance, and student representation within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
Rabjot Kaur
Lucknow, India
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and sustained impact within the residence and campus community through dedication to student support and community building.
Progressed through multiple leadership roles in Residence Life, reflecting strong trust, reliability, and commitment to supporting students.
Provided mentorship and guidance to student leaders while fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive living environment for residents.
Demonstrated calm andempathetic leadership during challenging situations, supporting studentwellbeingand strengthening residence community culture.
Organized engaging residence programmingand initiatives thatpromotedconnection, belonging, and positive student experiences.
Extended leadership beyond residence through involvement in academic and community initiatives within the Faculty of Computer Science.
- Consistently exemplified professionalism, mentorship, and care-centred leadership that positively impacted students and the broader 91Ƶ community.
Nadine Ayoub
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to service within the Faculty of Dentistry and the broader community.
Entered the Doctor of Dental Surgery program with the Faculty of Dentistry Gifts and Memorial Scholarship for highest scholastic standing and later received the 123 Dentist Scholarship for enthusiasm and leadership.
Served in leadership roles with the HOPES interprofessionalstudent group, first as treasurer and later as co-president, supporting initiatives focused onequitableand accessible health education.
Provided language support as an Arabic interpreter in the Faculty of Dentistry clinic, helping new immigrants and refugees access dental care and communicate with providers.
Contributed to mentorship and student engagement through involvement with the Dentistry Alumni Committee and the 91Ƶ Pre-Dental Student Society.
Served as class fundraising representative, helping organize initiatives that raised more than $15,000 in support of student and community programs.
Volunteered with Special Smiles through Special Olympics Canada, delivering dental screenings, oral hygiene education, and preventive care for athletes with intellectual and physicaldisabilities.
Demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and community service while supporting classmates and fostering a positive learning environment within the Faculty of Dentistry.
Eamon Quill
Barrie, Ontario
Demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to the engineering community through sustained involvement in student governance, design teams, and outreach initiatives.
Served in multiple leadership roles within engineering student societies, including President of the 91Ƶ Electrical Engineering Society, revitalizing thesocietyand increasing student engagement.
Contributed to engineering governance through service on a student advisory committee and active involvement with the undergraduate engineering student community.
Led the electrical team for theDalMASTdesign team, playing a key role in rebuilding and advancing the autonomous sailboat project after a period of teamdisruption.
Supported engineering outreach byparticipatingin school visits, engineeringdays, and community events to inspire younger students to explore careers in engineering.
Represented engineering students nationally as Corporate Relations Commissioner for the Canadian Federation of Engineering Students, strengthening partnerships with major engineering organizations.
Demonstrated commitment to sport and community through leadership roles with the 91Ƶ sailing team and involvement in the Canadian Intercollegiate Sailing Association.
- Exemplified leadership, initiative, and service across academic, professional, and extracurricular engineering communities.
Juliet Rowe
Calgary, Alberta
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative in advancing health science communication and engagement within the Faculty of Health.
Led the Faculty of Health Graduate Writing Club, creating an inclusive space for graduate students to develop science communication skills and engage in interdisciplinary collaboration.
Founded Bright Club Halifax, an innovative science-and-comedy initiative that provides accessible platforms for students to share research with public audiences.
Created and produced the podcastMind: The Gap, featuring more than 50 episodes highlighting research and perspectives from faculty and graduate students across the Faculty of Health.
Contributed to national leadership in science communication through senior roles withComSciConCAN, supporting training and professional development for graduate students across Canada.
Co-developed student-led, peer-reviewed open-access journals to support interdisciplinary collaboration and create lasting platforms for science communication.
Strengthened the visibility, collaboration, and public engagement of research within the Faculty of Health and the broader community.
Katherine Silins
Ottawa, Ontario
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy within the 91Ƶ community through extensive work supporting students navigating academic anddisciplinary processes.
Served as an Advocate with the 91Ƶ Student Advocacy Service,representingstudents in more than 70 cases including academic appeals,accessibility accommodationdisputes, and Senatedisciplinary proceedings.
Provided representation in complex cases involving professional suitability, accommodation implementation, and procedural fairness, supporting students through challenging academic and institutional processes.
Contributed to institutional governance as the student representative on the SenateDiscipline Committee,assistingwith deliberations and preparation of written decisions.
Expanded the academic mentorship program within the Faculty of Law, organizing examreview sessions, workshops on major paper writing, and providing one-on-one mentorship fornumerousstudents.
Served as Lead Teaching Assistant for courses in law and computer science, contributing to curriculum development and implementing tools to improve evaluation and learning resources.
Engaged in extensive pro bono legal work with organizations including Access to Justice Nova Scotia, PATH Legal, and the Justice of the Peace Centre.
Contributed to legal research and scholarship through interviews, conference presentations, and co-authored publications on copyright and technology policy.
- Balanced academic excellence and leadership with participation as a varsity rowing team member,demonstratingstrong teamwork and community spiritwithin the Faculty of Law.
Cole Noble
Bathurst, New Brunswick
Demonstrated strong faculty-level leadership focused on improvingthe academicexperience for management students.
Met monthly with the Assistant Dean to raise student concerns and advocate foradditionalacademic supports.
Followed up regularly on ongoing issues to ensure student concerns were addressed over time.
Engaged directly with students through conversations and check-ins to better understand course experiences, workload, and assessments.
Gathered and documented student feedback to track progress andidentifyrecurring issues.
Brought forward patterns in student concerns to faculty leadership for action.
Collaborated with the UAO to share student feedback and contribute ideas to strengthen academic support services.
Helped align support resources more closely with students’ real-time needs.
Maintained consistent advocacy and communication while managing a full academiccourseload.
Built trust with students through accessibility, responsiveness, and reliable follow-up.
Strengthened communication between students and faculty and improved coordination with academic support services.
Increased student confidence that concerns were being heard and addressed.
Eshan Arora
Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy within the Faculty of Medicine through extensive involvement in student governance at the university, faculty, and national levels.
- Served as a Student Representative on the 91Ƶ Board of Governors and as a Student Senator,advocating forstudent perspectives in key institutional decisions.
- Contributed to 91Ƶ StudentUniongovernance and policy development, includingparticipation in committees focused on finance, accountability, and racialized violence policy.
- Held national leadership roles with the Canadian Federation of Medical Students and the Canadian Association of Medical Students, supporting initiatives that strengthen medical student collaboration and advocacy.
- Served as President of the 91Ƶ Medicine Class of 2028,representingpeers on multiple academic and program committees while promoting a strong students-first approach.
- Securedadditionalacademic resources for classmates during alabourdisruption, ensuring continued access to essential learning materials.
- Founded the IPMP Society and established emergency bursaries supporting Indigenous and African Nova Scotian students in medicine.
- Received academic recognition through awards including the Graham Creighton Award and the MD ’76 Rachel Armstrong Scholarship.
- Demonstrated compassionate leadership, mentorship, and sustained commitment to improvingthe studentexperience within the Faculty of Medicine.
Annika Benson
Bedford, Nova Scotia
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and academic excellence as a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering.
Strengthened student community within the Biomedical Engineering Society by organizing social events and peer engagement initiatives.
Served as a student representative on the Graduate Curriculum Committee, advocating for accessibility and the retention of virtual lecture content to support students withdisabilities.
Led outreach and mentorship initiatives with schools and science programs, encouraging youth—especially underrepresented groups—to explore engineering and health sciences.
Contributed to public science engagement through events such as the 91Ƶ Brain Fair, Soapbox Science, and the Brain Repair Centre Neuroscience Roadshow.
Received national recognition as a Brain Canada Rising Star Trainee and presented research at international conferences.
Represented 91Ƶ internationally after winning the Atlantic Canada Falling Walls Pitch Competition and presenting at the global finals in Berlin.
- Demonstrated innovation in research through a first-author publication and a pending patent arising from their work.
Steven Mata
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Demonstrated outstanding leadership within the Faculty of Science through student governance, research, and community engagement.
Served as the Faculty of Science Representative for the 91Ƶ Student Union, contributing to committees focused on grants, sponsorship, and academicdiscipline.
Helped create and share mental health resource materials for science students to improve awareness of campussupports.
Founded and currently leads the 91Ƶ Science Scholars & Leaders Society, supporting marginalized students in STEM and creating community-based mentorship opportunities.
Co-founded the 91Ƶ Black Science Society and helped organize initiatives aimed at reducing financial barriers for Black students pursuing professional education.
Organized programs connecting university students with local junior high students through tutoring and mentorship initiatives.
Conducted research on antibiotic resistance as a CIHR USRA recipient and contributed to community-focused health equity research.
Maintained strong academic performance while balancing extensive leadership, research, and community involvement.
Timi Idris
Lagos, Nigeria
Health, Faculty of Health
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact through doctoral research focused on the wellbeing of Black women working in nonprofit organizations.
Conducted rigorous, community-engaged research grounded in intersectional and anti-racist frameworks, contributing to health equity and organizational change.
Received national recognition for academic excellence as a SSHRC Doctoral Scholar, Scotia Scholar, and Trudeau Scholar.
Served as President of the PhD in Health Student Society, supporting doctoral students and fostering inclusive academic spaces.
Contributed to community initiatives with organizations such as Doctors Nova Scotia and the Health Association of African Canadians.
Supported culturally responsive healthcare initiatives with Nova Scotia Sisterhood and Brotherhood programs.
Demonstrated sustained commitment to mentorship and advocacy aimed at increasing representation of Black students in health professions.
Integrated scholarship, leadership, and community engagement to create meaningful impact within the Faculty of Health and the broader community.
Residence life
Recipients of these awards must be a current member of a residence hall community at 91Ƶ. They also:
- Contribute to the life of the residence hall community.
- Encourage and empower residents to get involved in the wider community.
- Promote an atmosphere of respect.
- Take initiative in creating new opportunities for their peers.
Rabjot Kaur
Lucknow, India
Computer Science, Faculty of Computer Science
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and made a sustained, meaningful impact on the residence community over several years.
Progressed from Community Safety Team member to Community Safety Team Lead and Community Assistant Team member, reflecting strong trust, reliability, and continued growth as a student leader.
Led and supported more than 20 student leaders while helping foster a safe, inclusive living environment for over 300 residents.
Provided calm, empathetic support during challenging situations and was widely recognized as a trusted presence during high-pressure moments in residence.
Organized engaging residence events that brought students together and reinforced a strong sense of community and belonging.
- Extended leadership beyond residence through involvement in the Faculty of Computer Science as a Student Ambassador and by supporting mentorship opportunities for students in tech.
Nooralzahraa Fadhil
Baghdad, Iraq
Psychology, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated outstanding dedication to the residence community through four years of leadership as a Community Assistant, Community Mentor, Residence Assistant, and Community Safety Team Leader, and was selected as a Community Assistant Team Leader for the upcoming year.
Provided consistent mentorship and guidance to new student leaders while creating thoughtful programming and opportunities for meaningful connection within residence.
Built a strong sense of belonging by actively promoting inclusion, organizing community initiatives, and creating welcoming spaces for celebrations and cultural observances.
Earned recognition through multiple awards including Programmer of the Year, Outstanding Community Builder, Rising Star, Most Impactful Award from the MSA, and placement on the Dean’s List.
Extended impact beyond residence through volunteer work with the MSA, Ummah Masjid and Community Centre, refugee support initiatives, and youth leadership programs with YMCA.
Demonstrated leadership grounded in empathy, advocacy, and care, consistently encouraging others to build a supportive and welcoming community.
Zain Abideen
Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Computer Science, Faculty of Computer Science
Demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to building inclusive communities within Residence Life and across 91Ƶ.
Joined ResidenceLifemid-year and helped rebuild connection, belonging, and community engagement within residence.
Mentored and supported a team of Community Assistants through consistent guidance, collaboration, and care-centred leadership.
Led impactful initiatives across campus, including inclusive programming, community events, and spaces supporting queer and BIPOC student connection.
Organized large-scale initiatives such as 91Ƶ’s first Pride in Professional Spaces Conference and the revival of the Charity Face-Off fundraiser supporting the IWK.
Student life and community service
Recipients of these awards contribute to the life of the 91Ƶ, Halifax, or greater communities. They also:
- Demonstrate personal values through action.
- Create or contribute to new initiatives that inspire others.
- Contribute to a culture of student leadership and social responsibility.
Kylie Cole
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Kinesiology, Faculty of Health
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and community impact by co-founding the Mentorship & Academic Program (MAP), and supporting youth navigating the transition to post-secondary education.
Led mentorship initiatives, workshops, and community programming that improved access to academic resources and opportunities for high school students in the Halifax community.
Organized outreach initiatives including school workshops, university exposure experiences, and neuroscience lab tours at 91Ƶ, helping students better understand pathways to higher education.
Built partnerships with community organizations and hosted accessible programming at spaces such as the Keshen Goodman Library to ensure mentorship resources reached students beyond campus.
Mobilized volunteers and organized a community gala supporting education equity, raising over $1,000 to sustain mentorship programming and support international school initiatives.
Maintained outstanding academic achievement with a 4.3 GPA while balancing multiple jobs and extensive community leadership.
- Consistently demonstrated leadership grounded in equity, service, and a strong commitment to creating opportunities for youth and strengthening the Halifax community.
Nathan Cromwell Tesfazion
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated strong commitment to community service across municipal, provincial, and campus spaces.
Contributed to youth-focused programming through the YMCA of Greater Halifax & Dartmouth Youth Advisory Committee and helped support a tutoring program for marginalized students in Halifax’s North End.
Founded and co-led the 91Ƶ Black Science Society, creating spaces for peer support, mentorship, and community-building for Black students in STEM.
Supported campus initiatives promoting wellness and belonging, including Black Mental Health Awareness Week and leadership roles within multiple student societies.
Advanced community partnerships and healthcare equity through work with the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation and Nova Scotia’s Department of Public Works, supporting mentorship programs and employment opportunities for Black youth.
Contributed to community-engaged research focused on reintegration programs and health equity within Black communities.
Promoted inclusion in sport through involvement with the United Dartmouth Football Club’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee.
Beatrice Hao
Mississauga, Ontario
Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated exceptional commitment to social justice and education equity through leadership, advocacy, and community action.
Led a free online tutoring nonprofit as Executive Director, coordinating more than 1,000 tutoring sessions annually and supporting a team of youth volunteers providing accessible education to underserved communities.
Organized outreach initiatives across Nova Scotia to raise awareness about educational inequities and to expand access to tutoring and learning resources.
Promoted inclusive learning as a Teaching Assistant and peer mentor, developing review resources and support sessions that helped more than 150 students succeed academically.
Received the department’s Teaching Assistant of the Year Award in recognition of outstanding mentorship and dedication to student learning.
Advanced advocacy in areas including food security, mental health awareness, and education accessibility through sustained volunteerism and community programming.
Inspired peers through compassionate leadership and tangible action aimed at reducing systemic barriers to education and community wellbeing.
Eve Wedderburn
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to student governance as an equity-focused representative on 91Ƶ Student Council.
Served multiple terms on Council, consistently contributing thoughtful advocacy, respectful dialogue, and solutions-oriented leadership during governance discussions.
Founded and chaired the first Equity-Focused Student Leadership Ad-Hoc Committee, creating a formal space within the student union to elevate marginalized student voices and address systemic gaps in representation.
Led extensive outreach and consultation with student societies andadvising offices toensure equity-focused advocacy reflectedthe needsand lived experiences of the student community.
Initiated a collaborative documentary project highlighting the experiences of underrepresented students, fostering dialogue and reflection around equity and inclusion on campus.
Contributed to internal society review and funding committees, supporting transparency, fairness, andequitabledistribution of resources to student groups.
Extended leadership beyond Council through co-founding a science-focused cultural student society and supporting community outreach initiatives, including youth tutoring programs.
Demonstrated principled, collaborative leadership that strengthened representation, accountability, and inclusivity within 91Ƶ student governance.
An-Kita Das
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Psychology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences
Demonstrated sustained leadership and meaningful involvement in campus life through governance, student support, and community engagement.
Served in student government and contributed to the 91Ƶ Student Union Elections and Oversight Committees, supporting transparent governance and fair decision-making.
Worked as an Operational Assistant at the 91Ƶ Writing Centre, helping ensure accessible and efficient support services for students.
Served as a Campus Tour Ambassador, welcoming prospective students and families while representing 91Ƶ’s academic programs and student experience.
Completed more than 800 hours of community service focused on youth leadership,food security, and community development.
- Demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, service, and building an inclusive and supportive campus community.
Yunseop (Peter) Shin
Moncton, New Brunswick
Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated transformative leadership by creating lasting systems that strengthened equity, outreach, and student engagement within the Faculty of Science.
Established the first formal EDIA governance structure within the Medical Sciences Society, including a constitutionally recognized EDIA Chair and standing committee.
Integrated equity and inclusion considerations into long-term student leadership and decision-making processes within the society.
Founded the Undergraduate Science Outreach Showcase, expanding it into a multi-society initiative that connects science students with community outreach opportunities.
Designed and led the Groundwork Project, a mentorship program supporting high school students from underrepresented communities in exploring post-secondary education and STEM pathways.
Co-founded the Burnout Recovery Collective, creating supportive spaces for students to discuss academic pressure, wellbeing, and belonging.
Built sustainable programs and governance structures that continue to shape student engagement and equity initiatives across 91Ƶ.
Nicoletta Dini
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Doctor of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine
Demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial leadership through the creation and rapid expansion of a student-led public health initiative focused on sun-safety education.
Co-designed and launched a school outreach program in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society to address gaps in sun-safety education across Atlantic Canada.
Delivered 17 interactive presentations across six Nova Scotia schools during the pilot phase, reaching more than 1,000 elementary students and introducing accessible, age-appropriate preventive health education.
Expanded the initiative into a regional program with a structured leadership team and more than 100 volunteer presenters supporting outreach across Atlantic Canada.
Developed standardized training materials, evaluation frameworks, and volunteer systems to ensure the program’s sustainability and long-term impact.
Created a scalable public health model expected to reach tens of thousands of students while promoting preventive healthcare education andequitableaccess for rural communities
Nicoletta Dini
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Doctor of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine
Demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing sustainability and planetary health within the 91Ƶ medical community.
Founded andinstitutionalizedthe 91Ƶ Medical Student SocietyWhite Coat Library, creating a sustainable system that redistributes donated white coats to reduce textile waste and improveequitableaccess for students.
Led donation campaigns that secured and redistributed more than 100 white coats, embedding the initiative within student society governance to ensure long-term sustainability.
Advanced planetary health education through leadership in the Dal Med Green Team, coordinating medical students to develop curriculum edits integrating environmental determinants of health and sustainable clinical decision-making.
Contributed to one of the first coordinated efforts to embed planetary health concepts throughout the undergraduate medical curriculum.
Demonstrated sustained sustainability leadership through advocacy, education initiatives, and collaboration at both the university and national levels.
Created lasting systems that promote environmental responsibility, resource stewardship, and long-term sustainability within medical education.
Retaje Ibrahem
Alexandria, Egypt
Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Demonstratedexceptional leadership and community engagement early in the academic journey whilemaintainingstrong academic performance in Medical Sciences.
Contributed to student governance through service on 91Ƶ Student Union committees, supporting evaluation and funding decisions that strengthen student-led initiatives across campus.
Helped cofound the 91Ƶ Arab Society and served as Outreach Coordinator, promoting cultural awareness, community engagement, and inclusive programming.
Supported peer success as a tutor and Accessibility Centre notetaker, helping reduce barriers to learning and support students across multiple courses.
Volunteered extensively in the Halifax community through initiatives such asLet’sTalk Science outreach, the Walk in Our Shoes Foot Care Clinic, and service at the IWK Health Centre.
Participated in leadership development programs including theStudent Leadership Academy and the 91Ƶ Science Scholars and Leaders Program,demonstratinga commitment to continued growth and service.
- Maintained strong academic achievement while balancing leadership, volunteerism, and mentorship roles that strengthen both the 91Ƶ and Halifax communities.
Alice Noble Irwin
Toronto, Ontario
Environment, Sustainability, & Society, Faculty of Management
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative in student life through sustained involvement in student societies and campus engagement initiatives.
Promoted wellbeing, sustainability, and community connection by creating inclusive spaces and fostering meaningful peer engagement across campus.
Secured community grants to support impactful projects, including the construction of a greenhouse at Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank and the delivery of hands-on sustainability workshops through Skilled Up programming.
Served as a student staff member and peer educator, using creative communication and social mediaoutreach to promote sustainablebehavioursand student engagement across campus.
Produced highly impactful digital content encouraging sustainability practices such as reusable materials, waste reduction, and participation in campus resource programs.
Demonstrated resilience, determination, and leadership while balancing academic responsibilities, student athletics, and advocacy for accessibility and inclusion.
- Shown exceptional leadership potential early in the academic journey, making meaningful contributions to sustainability initiatives and student life at 91Ƶ.
Abby Farrell-Powell
Marystown,Newfoundland and Labrador
Political Science & Law, Justice and Society, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Demonstrated sustained leadership and service since the first year at 91Ƶ through active involvement in student societies, leadership programs, and community initiatives.
Held multiple executive roles within student societies, supporting student engagement through event coordination, membership recruitment, and academic and professional networking opportunities.
Focused leadership efforts on mentoring and supporting women pursuing opportunities in traditionally male-dominated fields such as law and politics.
Contributed to outreach and communications as a public relations executive for an internationalhonoursociety campus club, strengthening student involvement and community engagement.
Pursued structured leadership development through the 91Ƶ Student Leadership Academy, completing Tier 1 and being selected for Tier 2 to support community-focused initiatives with partner organizations.
Demonstrated commitment to community service through volunteer initiatives focused on kindness programs, fundraising, wellness activities, and support for local organizations including the IWK.
Maintained strong academic performance and received recognition through awards such as the Women in Politics Scholarship.
Exemplified a rising leader whose sustained contributions have strengthened both the 91Ƶ community and the broader community beyond campus.
Sara Bregaw
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Ultrasound, Faculty of Health
Demonstrated exceptional commitment to community advocacy, sustainability, and social justice through sustained leadership both on and off campus.
Prepared and distributed more than 100 winter care packages annually for individuals experiencing homelessness, supporting vulnerable communities since 2021.
Advocated for children and youth human rights through participation in a national youth advocacy program, including presenting at a national summit on healthcare rights.
Led the development of a sustainably designed sensory system through ocean sciences research and entrepreneurship, contributing over200 hoursto the project’s 3D printing process.
Received international and national recognition for sustainability innovation, including placing second in a global sustainability challenge and earning a national innovation award.
Contributed to inclusive campus initiatives as a member of aFaculty-level EDIA committee and through leadership in healthcare advocacy and outreach programs.
Supported youth andstudent engagement through involvement in healthsciencescamps, mentorship initiatives, and advocacy-focusedevents addressing systemic barriers in healthcare.
Demonstrated outstanding dedication to service, leadership, and peer support while excelling academically in a highly competitive allied health program.
Emilie Schofield
Miramichi, New Brunswick
Kinesiology, Faculty of Health
Demonstrated excellence as a varsity student-athlete through leadership, academic achievement, and meaningful community engagement.
Served asa two-time varsity team captain andfive-time USPORTS qualifier whilemaintainingoutstanding academic performance as an Academic All-Canadian and Honours student.
Co-founded a sport-based physical activity initiative that connects 91Ƶ varsity athletes with school-aged children from lower socioeconomic communities.
Led the program from concept to implementation, delivering free sport workshops in schools across the Halifax Regional Municipality to promote physical activity and confidence among youth.
Created inclusive opportunities for children to develop movement skills while learning from varsity athletes through mentorship and storytelling.
Integrated academic research with community programming by leading an Honours research project evaluating the program’s long-term impact and sustainability.
Demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to using sport as a platform to inspire youth and strengthen community connections.
Kate Frost
Montreal, Quebec
Marine Management, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to intramural and club sports during a two-year master’s program at 91Ƶ.
Served as an executive member of the Dal Water Polo Association, contributing as treasurer, sponsorship coordinator, and organizer of team-building activities.
Strengthened team culture by introducing initiatives that increased accountability, participation, and connection among team members.
Developed the team’s first sponsorship package and secured more than $1,000 in sponsorship funding to support the club and reduce financial barriers for athletes.
Created a bursary application process toallocatesponsorship funds toathletesdemonstratingfinancial need.
Recognized as Most Valuable Player for exceptional commitment, leadership, and performance within the water polo program.
Captained multiple intramural teams and fostered inclusive participation among graduate students and players of all skill levels.
Promoted teamwork, mentorship, and strong community spirit through leadership across both club sport and intramural programming.
Eshaa Amer
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Neuroscience, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated outstanding leadership in student wellness through sustained work in mental health advocacy, peer support, mentorship, and community engagement.
Served as a Mental Health Peer Support Worker, providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed support to students navigating stress, burnout, and mental health challenges.
Promoted inclusive conversations around wellness by supporting mental health education initiatives, including guest lectures for first-yearstudentsand co-facilitating Mental Health 101 training forfacultyand staff.
Led mentorship initiatives supporting underrepresented students in STEM and strengthening belonging and resilience within the 91Ƶ community.
Founded 91Ƶ’s firstGirlUpchapter, creating a supportive space focused on leadership, wellbeing, and advocacy for women and gender-diverse students.
Contributed to mental health advocacy beyond campus through volunteering with community organizations and organizing fundraisers supporting women’s shelters and mental health initiatives.
Integrated research, outreach, and science communication to advance culturally responsive conversations around mental health and wellness.
Demonstrated sustained commitment to equity-driven leadership that strengthened student wellbeing and fostered more inclusive and supportive campus communities.
Ella (Sunghyun) Kang
Seoul, South Korea
Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science
Demonstrated exceptional dedication as a student employee by supporting accessibility, student services, and inclusive campus environments across multiple roles.
Served as a House Manager with the 91Ƶ Student Union, providing front-line support at the info desk and coordinating conference bookings to ensure a welcoming and accessible student space.
Supported student learning as a Student Assistant at the CHEB Learning Commons,assistingwith circulation services, technology stations, and study space operations during peak academic periods.
Improved accessibility in education as a Captioner with Information Technology Services, producing accurate captions that support students with hearing impairments, learning differences, and language barriers.
Contributed to student governance as the International Student Representative on Senate Caucus and as an undergraduate member of the Senate Academic Programs and Research Committee.
Advocated forequitableaccess through participation on the Student Accessibility Fund Committee, supporting resources and services for students with accessibility needs.
Strengthened student engagement through leadership roles in several student societies, contributing to academic, professional, and community-focused initiatives.
Patricia Porto de Barros Ayaz
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Political Science, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to supporting international students and strengthening campus community connections.
Served as a Together@Dal Graduate Mentor, helping orient and support new students transitioning to life at 91Ƶ.
Contributed to International Centre and Faculty of Graduate Studies orientation programs and co-facilitated pre-arrival workshops for incoming students.
Participated in campus focus groups to amplify the voices and experiences of international students.
Supported student learning as a Teaching Assistant and contributed to community initiatives such as Monday Night Meal.
Participated in the BIPOC Mentorship Program and helped organize community events that foster connection and belonging.
Engaged in leadership development through Tier 3 of the Student Leadership Academy.
Demonstrated consistent care, professionalism, and dedication to building an inclusive and welcoming environment for students across campus.
RikutoNakayasu
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and sustained campus impact across student communities throughout their university career.
Revitalized the 91Ƶ Chess Club, expanding membership to over 500 students and organizing frequent tournaments and weekly community events.
Founded the Dal Chess Championship and led the club’s return to the Canadian University Chess Championship, elevating 91Ƶ’s national presence in university chess.
Created the “Chess for Wellness” initiative, connecting student volunteers with seniors and community members to promote social connection and wellbeing.
Contributed five years of leadership to the Formula Society of Automotive Engineers team, progressing from aerodynamics member to aerodynamics lead and project manager.
Mentored teammates in design and engineering tools while supporting successful competition results and strengthening the team’s visibility.
Founded and led the Sim Racing Society, creating additional opportunities for students to build community through shared interests.
Achieved strong academic performance with multiple years of Sexton Scholar recognition.
Extended impact beyond campus by volunteering with the Chess ’n Math Association, teachingchessand mentoring youth.
Student societies
The recipients of these awards are DSU-ratified societies and/or clubs that demonstrate significant contributions and impact in the community.
Black and Gold Dance Team (BGDT)
Has made a profound impact on campus by combining physical activity, artistic expression, and community building. By offering a creative outlet that supports physical and mental well-being, the BGDT plays a vital role in enhancing the university experience for its members and the broader student body.
Hasremainedundefeated for 3 consecutive years, a testament to the talent, dedication, and hard work of its members. The teamparticipatesin up to 15 hours of weekly training and classes to perform at an advanced level.
Prepared 13 group routines and over 40 solos and duos for competitions starting in February.
The team hosts drop-in classes as fundraisers, allowing dancers ages 12+ to train with the team and giving members the opportunity to gain teaching experience and build connections within the local dance industry.
91Ƶ Building Smiles Society
Representative:Pearla El-Rabahi
Demonstrated meaningful community impact by supporting children at the IWK Health Centre undergoing chemotherapy and other life-saving treatments.
Raised over $15,000 and donated more than 185 support baskets for pediatric patients, with additional baskets planned.
Organized fundraising initiatives such as workout classes, wellness events, and craft-based activities that engage the 91Ƶ community.
Promoted awareness of pediatric cancer through educational advocacy posts and community outreach.
Hosted seminars featuring healthcare professionals to educate students on topics related to pediatric cancer and health equity.
Created volunteer opportunities for 91Ƶ students to participate in fundraising, advocacy, and community service.
Built partnerships with organizations such as the IWK Health Centre, Phoenix Youth Program, and local nursing homes to expand community outreach.
Demonstrated sustained commitment to advocacy, education, and compassionate community support for children and families facing serious illness.
The 91Ƶ Commerce Society
Manages 12 umbrella societies that range from major-specific groups to demographic-based communities.
Executed high-impact events that consistently see high engagement suchas thebi-annual boat cruise and events at the Grafton Connor Group.
Raised over $9,000 for theMovemberFoundation and launched the first-everMovemberStash Dash 5k, which saw 150 students racing to support men’s health.
Continued the tradition of the Commerce vs. Engineering Hockey Game tobenefitthe Canadian Cancer Societyand raised$63,000 with 2000 people in attendance.
The 91Ƶ South Asian Society
Demonstrated a strong and consistent commitment to student engagement, cultural celebration, and community support since its establishment in 2023. Now in its third year of operation, the society has continuously hosted impactful events that foster inclusion, support South Asian international students, and contribute positively to campus life at 91Ƶ.
Has shown significant community involvement on campus through its regular programming and volunteer initiatives. The society has hosted many cultural and social events, including large-scale South Asian festivals and themed events, which consistently attract over 80 attendees.
In addition to cultural events, DSAS has actively supported international students through volunteer engagement with the 91Ƶ International Centre’s Monday Night Meal program.
91Ƶ Campus Clean-up Club
Representative:Connor MacDonald
Founded in October 2024 to address litter and environmental concerns across 91Ƶ’s campuses and surrounding Halifax community.
Organized regular weekend campus clean-up sessions where volunteers collect litter and promote environmental responsibility.
Engaged over 130 student members who have collectively contributed more than 100 volunteer hours toward improving campus spaces.
Removed significant amounts of waste from the Studley campus, helping protect local wildlife and surrounding marine ecosystems.
Strengthened connections between 91Ƶ students and the Halifax community through visible environmental stewardship efforts.
Created a welcoming and social volunteer environment that encourages students to contribute positively to their campus and city.
Demonstrated strong potential for continued impact, with plans to expand clean-up initiatives to the Carleton and Sexton campuses and nearby coastal areas.
91Ƶ Science Scholars & Leaders Society
The 91Ƶ Science Scholars & Leaders Society (DSSLS) is a student-led professional development society dedicated to supporting underrepresented/marginalized (URM) students in STEM, including Black, Indigenous, racialized, first-generation, and equity-deserving students who face systemic barriers to academic success, career navigation, and leadership opportunities within traditional science spaces.
Designed events such as the "Your Path to Academic Success" panel and "Beyond the BSc" paneltospecifically demystify academic expectations, post-degree pathways, and professional decision-making for URM students.
Through peer mentorship, tutoring initiatives, and leadership roles, students receive targeted academic support while developing transferable skills in communication, facilitation, and leadership.
Engagedhigh schools and community partners to support URM youth in exploring STEM pathways and post-secondary education. These initiatives extend professional development into the community while positioning DSSLS members as mentors and role models.
91Ƶ Black Law Student Association
Demonstrated sustained and meaningful impact through its unwavering commitment to advocacy, community engagement, and the advancement of Black law students at Schulich School of Law and beyond.
Supported efforts seeking the reversal of the wrongful 1933 conviction of Daniel Perry Sampson, a Black man unjustly convicted of murder andsubsequentlyexecuted, the last execution in Nova Scotia.
Organized a fundraiser to support victims in Jamaica affected by hurricane Melissa,demonstratinga responsiveness to global Black communities facing crisis.
Partnered with the Career Development Office to host a networking event connecting Black law students with legal professionals and firms, enhancing access to mentorship and career opportunities.
President’s Awards for the Advancement of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA)
At 91Ƶ, we believe that equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility are fundamental to education and employment, and therefore, are essential institutional values. To support our collective community efforts to advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, 91Ƶ is pleased to present the President’s Awards for the Advancement of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA).
The award recognizes the outstanding efforts by students in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility at 91Ƶ.
Rowan Natasha Pratt
Ottawa, Ontario
Engineering
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and sustained commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within the Faculty of Engineering and across 91Ƶ.
Championed systemic change through active involvement in faculty and national EDIA initiatives, including contributions to mental health and accessibility working groups that led to tangible improvements such as same-day counselling services and accessible testing spaces.
Led and expanded inclusive communities as President ofEngiQueersCanada and a founding leader of 91ƵEngiQueers, creating national and campus-wide networks of support for 2SLGBTQIA+ students in engineering.
Integrated EDIA principles into engineering research, contributing to nationally recognized work on equity in design education, accessibility, and bias in emerging technologies.
Developed and delivered EDIA training, workshops, and conference sessions across Canada, building capacity for inclusive leadership within the engineering student community.
Created lasting institutional impact through the establishment of student-led EDIA structures and ongoing advocacy for marginalized and underrepresented students.