OCAD U students were honoured for their outstanding extracurricular leadership contributions to the community at Campus Life’s recognition and awards dinner on March 14, 2017. Dr. Sara Diamond, President and Vice-Chancellor, OCAD University attended the dinner and was on hand to present the awards.
The Diversity & Equity Excellence Award for Students, supported by OCAD Student Union and Office of the Vice-Provost, Students & International, acknowledges an outstanding student whose advocacy and leadership, promoting and advancing human rights, equity and social justice. This year’s recipient, Maya Wilson-Sanchez, uses art and design as tools for social change. Her work in social justice and engagement as a curator—most notably for the recent We are Symbols and Intra-action exhibitions—encourages others to think critically, and push for empowerment, decolonization and equality.
Peer Mentor Awards, supported by First Generation Programs, acknowledge peer mentors who have made outstanding contributions to the Student Mentor Program over the past program year. This year’s recipients, Sandra Samy Ibrahim and Xulin Wu, demonstrated enthusiasm and positivity, while sharing their wealth of knowledge and insight to their student mentees. Their commitment in navigating the university systems and programs, and their inclusive and supportive approach, helped make OCAD U a welcoming, dynamic and engaging campus.
A special Commitment Pin was awarded to the following peer mentors who have shown commitment to the Student Mentor Program for three years or more: Arashdeep Chahal, Aruvi Rajasingham, Hilary Thich and Samantha Waters.
New this year, the Student Group Leader of the Year Award, made possible by Imagination Catalyst, was presented to a student group leader who excels, above and beyond in their leadership role. The inaugural recipient, Ali Al-Awadhi, Muslim Student Association, demonstrated outstanding contributions ̶ from hosting on-campus social opportunities, coordinating field trips, to working on the creation of the University’s first Multi-Faith Space.
Deanne Fisher, Vice-Provost, Students & International, acknowledged the commitment and leadership of OCAD Student Union executive and student participants in Board of Governors and OCAD U Senate.
Andre De Freitas, Manager, Financial Aid & Awards, presented a special Excellence in Student Services Award to Samara Diaz Sanchez who has worked in Financial Aid & Awards since 2015. Samara has served students with expertise, empathy, enthusiasm and excellence. Her dedication and savvy social media skills, helped break down financial barriers for her student peers.
Student group leaders and intramural team captains: Special interest, student-run clubs and the five-year old Intramural Program at OCAD U allow interaction among students, support faith and culture, and create an atmosphere of diversity while encouraging self-development, entrepreneurship, social responsibility, environmental awareness, and fitness and well-being. Brent Everett James, Campus Life Coordinator, acknowledged student group leaders and intramural team captains for their leadership and contribution to community.
The evening was made possible by First Generation Program; Financial Aid & Awards; Alumni Relations and Office of the President.
Image:
Back row (l-r): Rabeea Syed, Maya Wilson-Sanchez, Dr. Sara Diamond, Xulin Wang, Aruvi Rajasingham.
Front row (l-r): Ali Al-Awadhi, Sandra Samy Ibrahim, Samara Diaz Sanchez