Each year, the York University Alumni Awards recognize outstanding alumni who have achieved the extraordinary and are working to right the future by creating positive change in their fields. The Awards celebrate the broad York alumni community of innovators, activists, and researchers and its long-standing commitment to the public good.
Check out the 2022 Alumni Award recipients here, and visit our YouTube channel.
Nominations for 2023 cohort are now closed.
If you have any questions, please contact Senior Alumni Engagement Officer Nicole Light at nlight@yorku.ca or 647-527-2550.
View past Alumni Award recipients here.
The York U Alumni Awards Categories
AWARD | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
Outstanding Contribution | An alum who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of York and its students through exceptional service, commitment and/or philanthropic contributions. |
Outstanding Achievement | An alum who has achieved distinction in their field and whose integrity and ability inspire alumni, faculty, staff and students. |
Tentanda Via | An alum who has demonstrated innovative, unconventional and daring leadership and success, reflecting the university’s motto, “The way must be tried.” |
One to Watch | An alum who has made a significant impact in their field and/or community within 15 years of a bachelor’s degree or 10 years of a professional/graduate degree. |

Remembering Bruce Bryden, an outstanding York leader
The York U Alumni Awards were inspired by Bruce Bryden who was an exceptionally committed and influential leader at York University for many years. He was a member of our first undergraduate class, was the founding president of the York University Alumni Association (now the York University Alumni Board/YUAB) and was a member of the York University Board of Governors.
The York U Alumni Awards recognize and honour his vision, exemplary leadership and extraordinary achievements.