Last night, the Student Leadership Awards honoured this year’s winners and nominees. The awards are given to students, faculty and staff who have shown themselves to be leaders through their outstanding contributions to the College. More than 150 guests attended to show their support. 

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of the 2024 Student Leadership Awards.

Student Leader Award

Elijah Kim, Bachelor of Education and Coaching – WINNER

“Throughout his entire academic career at Douglas College, Elijah has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills, capacity, and competencies. He is an elected DSU student board member, a student-athlete, but most importantly, he is a student leader. Within his various roles and positions, his authentic, meaningful approach fosters a sense of belonging and creates community for all students at Douglas College.” 

• Brian McLennon, nominator

Maya Moalla, Bachelor of Arts in Applied Criminology – WINNER

“What truly sets Maya apart as a leader is her genuine care and willingness to help her fellow students. Maya’s approachability and empathy create a welcoming atmosphere where students feel comfortable seeking her guidance. I’ve seen Maya patiently listen to concerns, offer practical advice, and go the extra mile to ensure that every student feels supported.” 

• Srinithin Tirupur Rajendran, nominator 

Megan Palmer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing – WINNER

“Megan is a quiet leader who shows exceptional diligence and perseverance. Her observant nature shows that she is proactive in identifying areas for improvement within Douglas College and in implementing effective solutions, which are key qualities in a leader. Her newfound passion for global health reflects a broader perspective and a willingness to address healthcare challenges on a local and global scale, showcasing a commendable commitment to making a positive impact within and beyond her immediate community.”

• Hayley Miller, nominator

Nat Gingerich, Bachelor of Physical Education and Coaching – WINNER

“Nat’s commitment to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized or historically excluded groups is exemplary; his work shows his strong dedication to social justice, inclusion and equity. As such, he provides a level of leadership that shows the kind of leadership that we hope to see from Douglas College students.” 

• Nancy Squair, nominator

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NOMINEES for Student Leader Award

Congratulations to all the students who were nominated for the Student Leader Award.

• Adeduntan (Duntan) Ojuolape 
• Anjali Sharma 
• Ava Ferenc 
• Celia Kurniawan 
• Danna Domasig 
• Debanhi Herrera Lira 
• Emmaline Damon 
• Hayley Miller 
• Jaskaran Singh 
• Josefa Valdes Vera 
• Julija Belokoneva 
• Komalpreet Kaur 
• Manav Suri 
• Marisa Kettley 
• Maura Borba Silvestre 
• Mike Lara 
• Roselle Jean Dancel 
• Sam Saraj Elahi 
• Shivam Gupta 
• Shristy Jain 
• Stefano Pandolfo 
• Taranjeet Parmar 
• Tavleen Kaur 
• Thais de Araujo Goya Peduto

Up and Coming Student Leader Award

Kaylin Le, Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Advanced Supply Chain Management – WINNER

“Kaylin has been an engaged mentor and ambassador in the DCI Student Leadership program. She provides support to prospective international students aiming to join Douglas College as well as to new students navigating their first semester. In her interactions with her mentees and prospects, Kaylin radiates positivity and enthusiasm. Beyond serving as a representative of the College, she is a dependable and sincere friend who genuinely desires the best for the students she connects with.” 

• Hana Tran, nominator

Manav Suri, Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Digital Marketing – WINNER

“In his capacity as a Student Assistant, Manav plays a pivotal part in shaping the student experience, particularly through his involvement in New Student Orientation and various Student Life programs. Notably, he has overseen the successful orientation of over 900 new students across both the Fall 2023 and Winter 2024 semesters, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to facilitating a seamless transition and welcoming environment for incoming students.” 

• Megha Gupta, nominator

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NOMINEES for Up and Coming Student Leader Award

Congratulations to all the students who were nominated for the Up and Coming Student Leader Award. 

• Anne Terry 
• Elijah Kim 
• Jasmine Jasmine 
• Kiyan Sheikh 
• Kyla Criddle 
• Megan Palmer 
• Mohit Nayyar 
• Seyavash (Sam) Saraj Elahi

Outstanding Contribution to Student Engagement from a Faculty or Staff Member Award

Leisha Vandermey, Nursing Instructor – RN, BScN, MScN, NP – WINNER

“Leisha epitomizes educational excellence and visionary leadership, seamlessly weaving a tapestry of inspiration and knowledge for students in leadership positions within our nursing program. Her pioneering spirit has manifested in the establishment of the first international nursing field school, transcending geographical boundaries to instill a profound understanding of global social development goals. Leisha demonstrates an unwavering commitment to fostering the next generation of healthcare leaders.” 

• Megan Palmer, nominator

Michele Perry, CEIT – Help Desk Services – WINNER

“Michele consistently prioritizes students’ needs and strives to provide the best possible support regarding Douglas College’s IT services. Her understanding nature and empathetic approach create a supportive environment where students feel heard and valued. Michele’s dedication to finding practical solutions ensures that students receive the assistance they need to navigate College services effectively, contributing to a positive student experience overall.” 

• Anjali Anjali, nominator

Tonya Roy, Nursing Instructor – BSN, MN, SANE-A – WINNER

“Tonya exemplifies unparalleled dedication and visionary leadership in fostering the growth of students within our nursing program. Through her pioneering efforts, she has successfully established the first international Bachelor of Science in Nursing field school, a testament to her commitment to global education and the advancement of social development goals.” 

• Hayley Miller, nominator

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NOMINEES for Outstanding Contribution to Student Engagement from a Faculty or Staff Member Award

Congratulations to all who were nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to Student Engagement from a Faculty or Staff Member Award.

• Carol Stoppel 
• Eugene Dy 
• Kathleen Stephany 
• Kristen Apodaca 
• Lilian Truong 
• Pauline Low 
• Quy Le 
• Ruth Mandujano-Lopez 
• Saeed Mirjalili

Global Citizenship Dean’s Award

Alannah Mayes – WINNER 

Austin Wilbert McCabe – WINNER 

Issac Campos Gargantua – WINNER 

Laura Elena Mendez Larregui – WINNER 

Liam Daniel Head – WINNER 

Thi Hong Phuong Phung – WINNER

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Learn more about the Student Leadership Awards on our website.