The Robert Tiffin Student Leadership Awards recognize students whose leadership contributes to the growth, development and vitality of York University. Established in 2012, these awards are named after Robert Tiffin, who served as York University’s Vice-President, Students for nine years. Through his strong leadership, dedication and integrity, Tiffin transformed his operation into one of the most professional student service organizations in the country, serving one of Canada’s largest student populations.
“The focus is on trying to identify and recognize those students who have taken leadership roles in the community,” Tiffin says. “The skills that students develop in the classroom…are enhanced through their participation outside of the classroom, by contributing to the community. A lot of the competencies that we look for, like leadership, are really honed by becoming involved and becoming engaged in providing support for fellow students.”
All members of the University community (students, faculty, staff and alumni) are encouraged to submit nominations for the awards. Nominees must be currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students who exhibit leadership, dedication, integrity, enthusiasm and the pursuit of excellence through their endeavours. Selection will be based on leadership and/or involvement in the York community and outstanding academic achievement.
Every nomination package must include:
- a letter of recommendation from a primary nominator (max. 500 words);
- a statement of support from a secondary nominator (max. 350 words), representing one nominating constituency (York University students, staff, faculty or alumni) not represented by the primary nominator;
- a candidate statement (max. 500 words) reflecting upon and describing how co-curricular involvement at York University has affected their university experience, and helped to enhance the quality of life on campus; and
- a current resume, including detailed descriptions of involvement at the University.
The nominations deadline is Friday, Feb. 14. Packages can be submitted by email to rhezae@yorku.ca or in person to the Office of the Vice-Provost, c/o Rheza Evangelista, N300 Bennett Centre for Student Services.
Recipients will be honoured at an awards reception and have their names added to the awards display in the Vari Hall Rotunda. They will also receive a certificate and have the award noted on their transcript.