Leadership and Student Engagement Office Awards

These awards recognize the accomplishments of highly engaged undergraduate students, their contributions to their communities on and off-campus, and their pursuit to better themselves and invest in the lives of others.

The memorial awards also honour the lasting impact of Alyson, Alison and Ricky on the lives of many students, and their immense contributions to student affairs at the University of Calgary.

Photo of Alyson Woloshyn

Alyson Woloshyn Legacy of Leadership Award

Beginning her work at the University of Calgary in 2003, Alyson Woloshyn laid the foundation of the university’s student leadership programs. In every part of her work, she demonstrated a true dedication to mentoring, leading others to achieve their own successes and making others shine.

In memory of Woloshyn, this honorific award recognizes an outstanding continuing undergraduate student whose contributions to the university and Calgary communities mirror Woloshyn’s commitment to developing others and improving the student experience.


Photo of Alison Heal

Alison Heal Memorial Award

Over her 29-year career with the University of Calgary, Alison Heal was known for her commitment to mentoring students and young student affairs professionals. She also demonstrated a unique combination of strategic thinking and creative vision, which not only helped shape key initiatives at UCalgary, but also impacted how the university considers the needs of students in student affairs. The Alison Heal Memorial Award both celebrates and continues Heal’s student affairs legacy. This $2,000 award is open to continuing undergraduate students who plan to pursue a career in student affairs.

Essay deadline: By 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, 2022
Award recipient announced: May 2022

To be eligible for this award a student must be:

  • In good academic standing
  • A current undergraduate student
  • Intending to pursue a career in student affairs, with preference for those candidates who intend to pursue graduate study 

To apply for this award, please complete the online form and submit a 1,500 word essay that addresses the following questions:

  • Describe your plan for a career in student affairs, and detail the related educational requirements that you hope to achieve in meeting your objectives
  • Detail how you’ve demonstrated commitment to the development of your own leadership skills while pursuing study at the University of Calgary
  • Detail your co-curricular involvement at the University of Calgary, including comment on the positive impact that your involvement has had on the development of others and/or a building a sense of community on campus
  • Describe your areas of talent and strength, and comment on areas that you hope to develop further

Photo of Ricky Ramdhaney

Ricky Ramdhaney Memorial Award for International Students

On March 18, 2021, a beloved member of the University of Calgary family was lost — Ricky Ramdhaney, Manager of International Student Services and University of Calgary Senator.

For over a decade, Ricky was a tireless champion for our international students at UCalgary. A graduate of McGill University (BA) with a master’s degree from New York University in international education, Ricky joined UCalgary in 2009 and dedicated his professional life to mentorship, advising, and service to community. He was known for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to supporting the success of our international students.

This award provides up to $1,000 to international students who have displayed a commitment to leadership, service and community building within UCalgary and beyond.

Requirements and how to apply

Essay deadline: By 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, 2022
Award recipient announced: May 2022

To be eligible for this award a student must be:

  • A continuing international undergraduate student enrolled any faculty at the University of Calgary
  • In good academic standing
  • Demonstrate leadership and/or commitment to volunteering in our community 
  • Demonstrate impact on our community

To apply for this award, please complete the online form and submit a 750-1000 word essay that addresses the following questions:

  • Detail how you’ve demonstrated leadership as an international student at the University of Calgary
  • Detail your co-curricular involvement at the University of Calgary (on campus and in the community), including comment on the impact that your involvement has had on the development of others and/or the student experience at the University.

Peer Helper of the Year Award

This award, built around the three pillars that ground the Peer Helper Program (career development, self-awareness, and building campus community) recognizes the amazing work Peer Helpers do every day to contribute to the offices and programs they work with and in improving the student experience on-campus. This award also recognizes a student who has demonstrated exceptional character and gone above and beyond in fulfilling the responsibilities of their Peer Helper role.