Every year, MacEwan University honours members of each graduating class with awards for outstanding academic achievement and commitment to building their campus community.
Here are the recipients of the Spring 2026 awards.
President’s Medal for Academic Excellence and Student Leadership
The President’s Medal recognizes students for their exemplary combination of academic achievement and contribution to the betterment of MacEwan University. Recipients of this medal demonstrate the best qualities of a MacEwan student by maintaining a high grade point average while demonstrating leadership through active participation in university-wide committees, groups, organizations or extra-curricular activities. This year’s recipient is Oladayo Eunice Ayodeji.
OLADAYO EUNICE AYODEJI
Bachelor of Science, Honours Psychology
When I visited MacEwan University before receiving my offer of admission, a kind lady assisted me with directions. When I inquired about her academic level, she proudly informed me that she had recently graduated. Upon commencing my studies, I understood that it was only a matter of time before I would experience such pride as well.
I have always been fascinated by the brain and its crucial role in our lives. In Dr. Chris Striemer’s human neuropsychology class, my interest grew even stronger when I earned a 100 per cent on the term paper and received a “best paper in the class” comment. This achievement convinced me that I could undertake an honours thesis on a neurological condition resulting from right-brain damage.
I took on many roles while working and studying full-time. It was not always smooth sailing, but my mom was a great source of support – always lifting me up with her kind words and prayers.
One of the most memorable moments for me was during the MacEwan Language Club’s Cultural Language Showcase Night. During the karaoke session, we took turns singing. It was such a wonderful experience hearing everyone’s laughter and cheers for each performer. I even caught myself humming one of the songs days later, feeling truly touched by the joy and camaraderie we shared.
This summer, I will attend a program at York University and, after that, I plan to take a brief break to prepare for my future studies in the health sector.
Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence
The Dean’s Medal is each faculty or school’s highest academic honour. Each dean may award one medal to a graduating student in a certificate or diploma program and one medal to a graduating student in a degree program. Medal recipients are recognized by the dean of their faculty for their exemplary success in meeting the learning challenges and academic requirements of their programs of study.
- Alyson Grace Makowichuk – Bachelor of Child and Youth Care
- Haven Louise Garth – Emergency Communication and Response Certificate
- Benjamin Scott Lawrence – Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- Josie May Hoffarth – Bachelor of Fine Arts, Music Theatre Performance
- Ryder J. McGinnis – Music Diploma, Performance
- Kelsey Leanne Holmquist – Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting
- Jess Zdril – Library and Information Technology Diploma
- Lilyah Richardson – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Allyson Paige Gillespie – Psychiatric Nursing Diploma
- Jibi Johnson – Gerontology Post-Diploma Certificate
Governor General Academic Medal – Silver
The silver Governor General Academic Medal is awarded to the student who achieves the highest overall academic standing based on their graduation grade point average in an undergraduate degree-level program. This medal is awarded at Spring Convocation.
- Haley Irwin – Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences
Governor General Academic Medal – Collegiate Bronze
The collegiate bronze Governor General Academic Medal is awarded to the student who achieves the highest overall academic standing based on their graduation grade point average in a diploma-level program (minimum two-year, full-time duration). This medal is awarded at Spring Convocation.
- Dylan Bramer – Police and Investigations Diploma, Investigative Studies