Zeripha Moses, associate director of student success and advising at York University’s Markham campus, has been recognized as the recipient of the 2026 Lynda Tam Guiding Light and Legacy Award for outstanding contributions to student success, mentorship and community-building across the University.
The annual award honours the legacy of Lynda Tam, a long-serving leader at York who was the first assistant dean, students, in the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (AMPD).
Through innovation and compassion, Tam shaped student services, advising and peer mentoring programs, creating a lasting impact on the student experience at York.
Presented each year by York’s Advising Community of Practice and Peer Mentor Community of Practice, the award recognizes a student services, advising or peer leadership professional who embodies Tam’s creativity, imagination and commitment to guiding others while advancing student service excellence.
“Lynda Tam was a guiding force who generously shared her wisdom and experience with those of us in the advising community at York University,” says Moses. “Receiving this award is deeply meaningful to me, as it reflects the values she championed, by putting students at the centre of everything we do.
Moses was selected by the award committee for her exceptional leadership and dedication to fostering inclusive, student-centred environments. Her work has had a meaningful impact on both students and colleagues, reflecting a deep commitment to collaboration, mentorship and the continuous improvement of student-facing programs.
In his nomination, Adam Duncan, assistant director of student recruitment at Markham, highlighted Moses’s ability to bring people together and inspire those around her. He described her as a trusted colleague whose thoughtful approach, empathy and strategic insight have strengthened programs and supported the success of students across York.
Colleagues who supported the nomination emphasized Moses’s role as a connector and mentor, noting her consistent efforts to elevate the student experience and create spaces where individuals feel welcomed, valued and empowered to thrive. Like Tam, Moses is recognized for her ability to guide others with care and clarity while advancing meaningful, lasting change.
As part of the award, each year a piece of art is commissioned from a current AMPD student. This year, Nathan Adachi was selected, creating a a landscape that depicts a sunlit pond that holds personal significance to them, with a lighthouse in the distance. “The composition reflects the cultivation of a flourishing environment shaped by the presence of a guiding light, celebrating Tam,” says Adachi. “The lighthouse symbolizes how her presence continues to stand tall and her influence continues to guide others.
For Moses, the award and artwork are not individual honours. “This recognition also belongs to the many colleagues across our community who work so diligently to support our students and make a positive difference in their lives,” she says. “It is truly an honour to be part of the advising community at York University.”