Alumni of Distinction Awards Descriptions
Alumna/us of the Year:
This award recognizes a distinguished graduate who has achieved exceptional success in their professional field, made significant contributions to their community, demonstrated proven leadership skills and shown consistent support for Algonquin College. Their professional excellence and dedication to service and community inspire others and reflect the highest standards of our alumni community.
Brian Fraser Recent Graduate:
This award recognizes a recent graduate who has graduated from an Algonquin College program or apprenticeship in the last five years and is making a significant impact in their field or community. Through their achievements, leadership and dedication, they embody the values of our institution and serve as an inspiration to their peers. This award is named for the late Brian Fraser, an Algonquin College alumnus who raised awareness and funds for blood donation before losing his battle with leukemia.
Business:
This award recognizes individuals who have achieved remarkable success and leadership in the business world. It celebrates entrepreneurs and innovators whose strategic vision and excellence have driven the success of their industry or organization. By embracing innovation and ethical practices, recipients in this category have made significant contributions to their industry and positively impacted their community, embodying the core values of our institution.
Changing Lives:
This award recognizes a graduate who has made a profound impact on the lives of others through their dedication, compassion and innovative efforts. This award celebrates an individual whose actions have significantly improved the well-being of individuals or communities by embodying the spirit of service and positive change.
Community Services:
This award recognizes individuals who have shown a deep commitment to improving the lives of others and fostering positive change, especially among marginalized communities such as people with disabilities, racialized groups, new Canadians and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Recipients in this category provide support and services that positively impact members of their community and drive positive change.
Creative Arts and Design:
This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, innovation and dedication in a wide variety of professional careers, including architecture, broadcasting, fashion design, filmmaking, photography, interior design, culinary arts, fine arts and commercial graphic arts. Recipients in this category have positively impacted their communities and industries through their artistic endeavors.
Health Sciences:
This award recognizes individuals working in a diverse array of professions dedicated to improving and supporting health and well-being. This category includes roles that directly interact with patients in clinical settings or the community as well as those in laboratories involved in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of medical and health-related innovations. Professionals in this sector possess a deep commitment to helping others and demonstrate a unique blend of expertise and compassion in their work.
Rena Bowen Volunteer of the Year:
This award recognizes a graduate who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to volunteer work and community service. The selfless contributions of the recipients in this category have made a significant impact on the lives of others and exemplify the spirit of giving back. The award is named for Rena Bowen, an alumna who volunteered her time and expertise to Algonquin College for nearly three decades.
Science, Technology and Engineering:
This award recognizes professionals who apply critical thinking skills in the design, production and operation of applied sciences across a wide range of disciplines, including architecture, civil engineering, manufacturing and digital technologies. These individuals play a crucial role in driving innovation, enhancing infrastructure and improving technological capabilities. Through their contributions, recipients in this category address complex challenges, advance their industries and positively impact society by shaping a more efficient, sustainable and connected world.
Skilled Trades:
This award recognizes a graduate who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in the skilled trades, playing a vital role in shaping Ontario’s economic future. Recipients in this category excel in or support the construction, industrial, motive power and service sectors through their commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and mentorship. Their contributions drive industry advancements, enhance workforce development, promote sustainable practices and exemplify the critical role skilled trades play in building a strong, resilient communities.
Alumni Employer of the Year:
This award recognizes an organization with an inclusive, supportive and dynamic workforce that has made significant contributions to its industry and society. The employer of the year demonstrates exceptional commitment to employee well-being, innovation and community engagement. Through its strong partnership with Algonquin College, this organization actively supports research, contributes to curriculum development and provides valuable opportunities by hiring current learners and alumni.