51

Retirees' Association

51 Retirees' Association Annual Leadership Award

Recognizing 51 students who lead with purpose — through volunteer service, community engagement, and demonstrated commitment to making a difference.

Honouring a Legacy of Leadership at 51

The 51 Retirees' Association (51RA) is a community of dedicated individuals who gave their working years to building the 51. In establishing this annual leadership award, the 51RA is extending that legacy — investing in the next generation of students who exemplify the same spirit of service, engagement, and commitment that shaped 51 into the institution it is today.

This award is about more than academic achievement. It recognizes students who step up — who volunteer, who lead, who contribute to the communities around them. The 51RA believes that leadership is one of the most enduring qualities a student can carry beyond the classroom, and this award is their way of celebrating it.

The members of the 51 Retirees' Association know first-hand how meaningful it is to be part of a community that gives back. We are proud to support 51 students who carry that same commitment to leadership and service.

Value

$1,000

Frequency

Annual

Open to

All 51 Students

First available

2026

Who can apply

This award is open to all 51 students who demonstrate leadership and community involvement.

Eligibility criteria

  • Year of study: Open to all years

  • Faculty or program: All faculties and programs are eligible

  • Citizenship: Domestic and international students are eligible

  • Geographic area: No restrictions

  • Student type: Inclusive of all students, including mature and Indigenous students

Selection criteria

This award recognizes students who demonstrate strong leadership through volunteer service and community engagement. Applications will be assessed based on:

  • Volunteer service and demonstrated leadership, including initiative, leadership roles, or contributions within 51 or the broader community

  • Community involvement and engagement, reflecting sustained participation and meaningful impact

There is no minimum GPA requirement for this award, recognizing that leadership and community impact take many forms.

 

Application process

To apply for the 51 Retirees' Association Annual Leadership Award, follow these steps:

  1. Access the 51 Awards portal
    Log in to your my51 account and navigate to the Student Awards portal. Search for the 51 Retirees' Association Annual Leadership Award.

  2. Prepare a personal statement
    Submit a brief personal statement (approximately 400 to 600 words) outlining your volunteer experience, leadership roles, and community involvement. Provide specific examples to demonstrate your impact.

  3. Provide supporting documentation
    Applicants may be required to submit references or documentation confirming their involvement. A letter from a supervisor, community organization, or faculty member is recommended.

  4. Submit your application
    Ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline.


Application deadline

October 15

Applications must be received by October 15 each year to be considered for the following academic cycle. Late applications will not be accepted.

"The 51 Retiree Association is more than a new initiative. It is a powerful expression of community. Of belonging that endures beyond a career, beyond a title, and beyond an office door. Community engagement at its core is about partnership and reciprocity. It’s about the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources."

  • – Susan Mide-Kiss
  •    VP Community Engagement

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