The Student Experience Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of campus leaders who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on student life and the U of G community. Each year, students, staff and faculty are invited to nominate individuals who exemplify dedication, leadership, and a strong commitment to the University of Guelph and beyond.
Visit the Student Experience Awards page for full award descriptions and nomination criteria.
Meet this year’s recipients:
André Auger Citizenship Award
Vinay Joshy – BMath, Mathematical Science, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
As president of the Math & Stats Club, Vinay Joshy has been a driving force in creating a strong, inclusive community within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Under his leadership, the club has become a vibrant space for academic support, mentorship and social connection.
Vinay has led a wide range of events that have helped students feel engaged and supported, including a LaTeX Workshop, the “Mastering R Series,” Math Jeopardy, Trivia Nights, and the Undergraduate Research Math & Stats Symposium.
His efforts have made a lasting impression. As one faculty member shared, “[…] it is clear as day that he has made our own campus a better place… Vinay has helped to give life to our department and program.”
Vinay’s dedication to inclusive programming continues to shape a more connected and welcoming student experience.
Brian D. Sullivan Leadership Award
Natalie Wilkinson – BSc, Biological Science, College of Biological Science
Natalie Wilkinson has made a lasting impact at the University of Guelph through her leadership and dedication to student advocacy. In roles such as vice-president external for the Central Student Association, vice-president internal for the CBS Student Council and a former leader in Student Housing Services, she has consistently championed student rights across all levels of governance.
She has worked to expand access to essential resources, especially for students affected by sexual- and gender-based violence (SGBV), through advisory committee roles and as a former resident assistant. Natalie also leads inclusion-focused efforts including expanding cultural food options at the CSA Food Bank.
“Natalie’s leadership is defined by her ability to empower others,” one nominator shared, praising her inclusive and ethical approach.
From community-building to policy change, Natalie continues to inspire those around her to engage, advocate and lead.
Erin Angus Graduate Student Engagement Award
Amy Kipp – PhD, Social Practice and Transformational Change, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences
Amy Kipp has made a profound impact on student life at the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of mentorship, inclusion and community, particularly within the Social Practice (SOPR) PhD program. A recent PhD graduate and strong leader, Amy has helped shape the SOPR program through her advocacy and dedication to supporting both current and future students.
She actively volunteers in the program’s professional development workshop series, sharing her expertise—and her vulnerabilities—to help fellow students grow, connect and support one another. Even while defending her dissertation, Amy invited peers to attend in an effort to demystify the process and foster a more open, supportive academic environment.
As one nominator shared, “Amy demonstrates what it looks like to not only show up and be an exemplary doctoral student, but how to consistently give back to your community of graduate students and shape the future of academia for the better.”
Hasnul F. Abdollah International Student Award
Audrey Peñafiel – BSc, Wildlife Biology & Conservation, College of Biological Science
Audrey Peñafiel has played a key role in enriching the international student experience at the University of Guelph. Through her involvement in groups like the Biological Science Student Association, CBS Student Council and the FREED community, she has helped foster a welcoming, supportive environment for students from around the world.
From mentoring through START International and the CBSSC Peer Mentorship Program to organizing multicultural events, Audrey is known for her compassion, leadership and ability to bring people together.
As one student shared, “Audrey always embraces diverse perspectives and creates spaces where everyone feels valued. She has played a key role in organizing multi-cultural events, facilitating student access to resources or fostering cross-cultural friendships. Through these efforts, she has strengthened not only her sense of belonging among the international student’s community, but other students’ as well.”
Kishaadigeh Award “She Who Guards the Lodge”
Genievieve Borg – PhD, Inorganic Chemistry, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Genevieve Borg, an Anishinaabekwe PhD candidate in Inorganic Chemistry, is a respected leader, mentor and advocate within the University of Guelph’s Indigenous and academic communities. Through her involvement with the Indigenous Student Society as executive-at-large and co-chair, Gen has worked to foster connection, cultural engagement and mentorship on campus.
Her academic accomplishments are equally impressive. Gen has presented on Indigenous success in academia at the Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition, published multiple papers, and had her artwork featured in an editorial. She is also a passionate advocate for Indigenous representation in STEM, using her platform to bridge scientific and traditional knowledge systems.
As one faculty nominator shared, “Gen is an outstanding candidate for the Kishaadigeh Award, exemplifying leadership in academic and non-academic Indigenous mentorship. She is indeed a protector of Indigenous culture and knowledge and an advocate for the young generation of Indigenous scholars.”
Laurie Schnarr I Am A Gryphon Award
Ian Kearney – Coordinator, Peer Helper Program, Student Experience
Ian Kearney has made a meaningful impact on student life at the University of Guelph through his thoughtful leadership and commitment to continuous improvement. He has played a key role in shaping the Peer Helper Program into a more inclusive and supportive space, where students and staff feel heard, valued, and encouraged to grow.
Known for his empathy and willingness to see different perspectives, Ian is a trusted mentor to both students and colleagues. His work is rooted in genuine care and a desire to build stronger, more connected communities on campus.
As one colleague shared, “His leadership is rooted in an authentic desire to see others succeed… and I am deeply grateful for the support he has extended to me and countless others.”
Ian’s everyday actions reflect his ongoing commitment to improving life at U of G.
R.P. Gilmor Student Experience Award (Staff)
Caleb Harwood – Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor, Student Experience
As the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor at Student Experience, Caleb is deeply committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces where LGBTQ2IA+ and intersecting students feel welcomed and supported. They are a trusted mentor and role model, known for their compassion, leadership and steady presence on campus.
Beyond community-building, Caleb also provides valuable guidance, supporting students not just in who they are, but who they strive to become. Their work reflects a deep understanding of the challenges students face and a genuine desire to help them thrive.
As one student staff member shared, “His genuine concern for students extends beyond professional advice; he is always understanding, compassionate, and supportive, recognizing the diverse challenges that students face.”
Through every interaction, Caleb demonstrates what it means to lead with empathy and create lasting impact.
R.P. Gilmor Student Experience Award (Student)
Alannah Grant – PhD, Integrative Biology, College of Biological Science
Jonathan Chu – PhD, Integrative Biology, College of Biological Science
Alannah Grant and Jonathan Chu have made a lasting impact at the University of Guelph through their leadership of Field Research in Ecology and Evolution Diversified (FREED). Together, they’ve raised $70,000 to support BIPOC students in ecology and evolutionary biology, removing financial and systemic barriers and creating a more welcoming, inclusive space for fieldwork, mentorship, and community.
Their commitment extends beyond the annual program, as they continue fostering peer-mentoring networks throughout the academic year. Through their passion and dedication, Alannah and Jonathan are helping reshape access to field-based learning at U of G.
As one nominator shared, “I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the R.P. Gilmor award than Alannah and Jonathan. They are single-handedly making the University of Guelph and the field of ecology, more welcoming, more diverse and more inclusive.”
Roberta Mason Award
Kasia Pontet-DaSilva – Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, Business & Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences, College of Arts
Kasia has gone above and beyond in the U of G campus community this year, showing a strong commitment to getting involved and making others feel welcome. In her role as BASSA’s vice-president of events, she brings creativity, initiative and a genuine passion for helping students connect. Her strong work ethic and talent for organizing events have transformed the way students engage with BASSA. As one nominator shared, “She doesn’t just fulfill her role; she takes it a step further.” Her enthusiasm has turned first-time attendees into regular participants, making the club more welcoming than ever.
Outside of BASSA, Kasia is also involved as an Orientation Volunteer, a Snow-V, a Motionball volunteer, and volunteers off-campus in her free time.
A fellow BASSA member adds, “In just one year, Kasia has made an undeniable impact… and I strongly believe she deserves this honour.”