As the 2017-2018 academic year draws to a close, the successes of the past many months are being celebrated across campus. Chief among these celebrations are events honouring outstanding student achievements in academics, athletics and leadership.

Academic achievement awards

Student leadership awards

Emerging Leader awards

Kenya Thompson (pictured to the right) is presented with her award by Erin Murray, Mount student and VP Communications for the MSVU Students’ Union.

As the Students’ Union Elections Coordinator, second-year Public Policy student Kenya Thompson organized two Students’ Representative Council elections while also taking on leadership roles in numerous student societies. Currently, she is working with students from across Nova Scotia to organize the upcoming Women in Politics: 100 Years of Progress conference taking place at the Mount on April 22nd.

Cheega Qi (pictured to the left) receives his award from Kay Balite of the International Education Centre.

Yigeng “Cheega” Qi has quickly become a friend to many on campus, earning him the Emerging Leader Award for International Students. Cheega came to Canada as a mature and transfer student with a goal of continuing his degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management. Today, he is the incoming Mature Student Representative for the Students’ Union Students Representative Council and a well-regarded contributor on campus.

Student life awards

Ryan Barnes (pictured to the left) receives his award from Mount student Ethan Craig.

The Student Experience Award is rarely awarded to a first-year student, however, Ryan Barnes was an obviously deserving candidate according to nominator Julie Fillmore, the Mount’s Disability Resource Facilitator. “We have all met some truly remarkable students over the years, some of whom you just know will make an invaluable mark in this world one day. Ryan is one of these people. In his short time here at the Mount, his charismatic and kind nature have already made an impact.” Ryan was also the 2018 recipient of the Residence Spirit Award.

Alison Bryan (pictured to the left) poses with Dr. Mary Bluechardt, Mount President and Vice-Chancellor

Alison Bryan, 2017-2018 Students’ Union Vice President of Student Life, was the recipient of the Patricia Butler Prize. The prize, which is awarded annually by the Mount’s President and Vice-Chancellor, is presented to a student in good academic standing who has made a significant contribution to university governance at the Mount. Alison has sat on numerous university councils and committees, as well as served as a liaison between students and administration in her leadership role with the Students’ Union.

Female athlete of the year

Kate Gallant (pictured to the right) poses with Mark Forward, the Mount’s Athletics Officer.

Kate Gallant, Co-Captain of the Mystics Women’s Basketball team, was named this year’s Female Athlete of the Year. Finishing her fifth year of play with the Mount, Kate was this year named a CCAA All-Canadian and ACAA First Team All-Conference. “She is a captain, all-star, and dedicated student athlete,” noted Director of Athletics June Lumsden. “She played her best games at the CCAA nationals this past year, able to match up with the best in the country.”

Male athlete of the year

Jesse Thomson (pictured to the right) receives his award from Ian MacRae, the Mount Mystics men’s basketball coach.

Jesse Thomson, Co-Captain of the Mystics Men’s Soccer team, was named this year’s Male Athlete of the Year. Finishing his third year of eligibility, Jesse was honoured this year as an ACAA First Team All-Conference. “His tenacity, effort and skill sets the tone for many of our matches,” June noted. “He is a wonderful athlete, a solid student and a very bright young man who truly contributes significantly to his community.”