The University of Niagara Falls Canada recently highlighted the outstanding achievements of students at its first-ever Student Leadership Awards Celebration.
Organized by the Student Success Office (SSO) and Community Engagement team, the event brought members of the UNF community together for an evening of recognition and reflection. Held at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel on June 19, the celebration featured the presentation of five distinct awards to nine students who have demonstrated a commitment to innovation, service, and making a meaningful impact at the university.
More than 160 nominations were submitted by UNF staff, faculty, and students, reflecting the breadth and depth of student contributions across campus. Finalists were selected by an awards committee following a comprehensive review and thoughtful consideration of each nomination.
“As someone who had the opportunity to review the nominations for each of the awards, I was not only amazed by the stories and accomplishments of our students, but I was also inspired by them as well” said Sam Edgar, Associate Director of Student Experience at UNF. “All of our nominees are truly deserving of the recognition they received.”
Awards were presented to the following students:
- Community Leadership and Service Award: Erika Ramos Caceres
- UNF Spirit Award: Gian Carlo Noa Donaire, Jane Igiebor Jacob, and Batbold Tumurbat
- Club of the Year Award: The Language Club (Received by Maria Astrid Chiri Cardenas and Johanna Patricia Vasquez Rios)
- New Student Orientation All-Star Award: Poliana Bertolai and Riddhima Mathur
- President’s Leadership Award: Moses Eshiet
“We are incredibly proud of the dedication and leadership our students demonstrate in all that they do,” said Cyndi McLeod, President of UNF and CEO of Gus North America. “This celebration is a testament to their efforts and powerful reminder of their potential. We look forward to seeing what they accomplish next as they continue to grow as leaders.”
Though the university has been open for just over one year, its students are already leaving a lasting mark. In addition to contributing more than 2,300 volunteer hours in 2025, students have established groups to foster belonging, and supported each other not just academically, but in life as well. The Student Leadership Awards offered a timely opportunity to place a spotlight on these early achievements and the strong foundation being built for years to come.
“Student success isn’t just measured in the classroom. It’s reflected in how students lead and support one another,” said David Gray, Provost and Vice-President, Academic at UNF. “These awards highlight the many ways our students are contributing to a stronger, more connected university.”
Looking ahead, UNF will continue to champion student contributions and support opportunities that foster leadership and connection across campus and the community.
