2024 Award winners

Michael Lecchino - Louyse Lussier Award Recipient

Michael Lecchino, a prominent undergraduate at Concordia University, has significantly enriched the institution's academic and social spheres. As an elected councillor and leader within the Concordia Student Union, he's spearheaded improvements in student governance and campus life. Notably, his initiative to integrate the Art Volt Collection with the Vanier Library has transformed it into a vibrant cultural and educational center, showcasing emerging artists and enhancing the university's cultural ambiance.

In competitive arenas, Michael's strategic prowess has led Concordia's teams to noteworthy victories in various case competitions, elevating the university's reputation internationally. Serving as Academic Coordinator and Internationals Coordinator for the John Molson Competition Committee, he's crafted invaluable experiential learning opportunities, immersing students in real-world challenges to refine their analytical and collaborative skills.

Michael's innovative projects, such as real-world consulting ventures with Accenture and the Winter Case Class, bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing students for the global professional landscape. His visionary efforts not only enhance Concordia's educational offerings but also establish a standard of academic and professional excellence.

Catherine Starr-Prenovost

Catherine Starr-Prenovost, an undergraduate Psychology student at Concordia University, is a beacon of leadership and community commitment. Through roles like Welcome Crew Mentor and Homeroom Student Facilitator, she provides invaluable support to new students, fostering a sense of belonging and confidence. Her inclusive approach creates a supportive environment that profoundly impacts new and first-year students.

As President of Nightline in the 2022-2023 academic year, Catherine showcased exceptional organizational skills and empathy, ensuring the continued success of this vital student resource. Her dedication to student health and well-being is unwavering.

In addition to her roles with Nightline, Catherine contributes to Concordia's community through involvement with the First Year Experience team and the Student Success Centre leadership team. Her efforts in student programming, welcoming sessions for first-year students, and fundraising initiatives highlight her commitment to enhancing student life.

Catherine's holistic leadership style, marked by mentorship and community service, distinguishes her as an exemplary Concordian.

Emmanuel Osei Mireku

Emmanuel Osei Mireku, a PhD candidate in our Department of Mathematics and Statistics, has showcased exemplary dedication and leadership throughout his seven-year tenure. Serving as a Teaching Assistant every semester, tutoring pre-university courses, and excelling in instructional roles, Emmanuel's teaching effectiveness is underscored by outstanding course evaluations. He played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 transition to remote teaching as a "Super TA," ensuring seamless adaptation. Emmanuel's mentorship of graduate student instructors and meticulous organization of midterms further highlight his invaluable contributions to our department's success.

Emmanuel Osei Mireku embodies the qualities of dedication, excellence, and leadership, making substantial contributions to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and setting a high standard for educational impact and departmental service.

Ana Cappelluto

Ana's mentorship goes the extra mile, empowering students to pursue graduate studies and professional paths, helping them secure internships and awards that further their practical experience and industry recognition. In the Department of Theatre, her classes are transformative experiences, leaving students not only with smiles but with a renewed passion for exploration and learning.

A prime example of Ana’s extraordinary contribution is her pivotal role in the Fall 2023 production of “Till Human Voices Wake Us.” This innovative mix of circus and theatre, overseen and fervently advocated for by Ana, was a resounding success, drawing nearly sold-out audiences and earning widespread acclaim. Beyond its success, the production bridged the gap between the university and circus arts, marking a groundbreaking collaboration that has invigorated both the department and Concordia’s image.

Ana is more than a professor; she is an advisor, mentor, and friend. As a mature student with a professional background in circus performance, returning to academic life was daunting.  Her ability to recognize and nurture the potential within each of her students, to connect with each of their individual journeys and aspirations, is truly remarkable.

Ana Cappelluto’s impact students’ lives and on the Concordia community is immeasurable. She embodies the spirit of excellence, innovation, and compassion that this award seeks to recognize.

Teresa Hernandez-Gonzalez

Teresa Hernandez-Gonzalez's leadership within the TESL program exemplifies exceptional dedication and innovation, making her an outstanding Concordian. Serving as director for over seven years, Teresa has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to enhancing student and faculty experiences at Concordia. Her approach is characterized by meticulous attention to student advising and curriculum development, ensuring students navigate their academic journeys successfully.

One of Teresa's most notable contributions is the development and implementation of a cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) project aimed at enriching the learning experience for student-teachers. This project showcases her forward-thinking vision and her ability to integrate new technologies into education, setting a precedent for innovative teaching methods within the department.

Furthermore, Teresa's ability to maintain high levels of enthusiasm and commitment, coupled with her creative problem-solving skills, has led to significant improvements in the TESL program. Her efforts have not only enhanced the program's quality but also its reputation, contributing to a stronger, more connected educational community at Concordia.

Her leadership goes beyond administrative tasks; it embodies a profound investment in the personal and professional growth of her students and colleagues. Teresa's contributions are a testament to her dedication to excellence in education. 

Kristel Kabigting

Kristel Kabigting, a dedicated Career Advisor at CAPS, stands out for her innovative career guidance and commitment to student success, making her an exceptional nominee for the Outstanding Contribution Award. Through her semestral panel events, Kristel uniquely leverages the experiences of Concordia alumni, transforming their stories into motivational tools for current students. Her ability to connect students with professionals reflects her role as a genuine connector, demystifying the workforce and empowering students to pursue their careers with confidence.

Kristel's dedication to celebrating Filipino identity at her events not only empowers Filipino students but also enriches Concordia's diverse community. Her active involvement with FOCUS, from sharing job opportunities to moderating significant events like Tara, Mag-Usap Tayo and Net-vember: The Pan-Asian Forum, highlights her commitment to student engagement and professional development.

Beyond her professional skills, Kristel's genuine, kind personality has made a profound impact on the Concordia community, significantly boosting alumni engagement and student participation at social events. Her social media presence further amplifies her influence, garnering wide appreciation and engagement from the community.

Kelly Routly

Kelly Routly, Graduate Program Assistant in Economics, is the cornerstone of support for  graduate students, guiding them from their first inquiry to graduation. Her initiatives, particularly in streamlining the graduate admission and PhD defense processes, have significantly improved efficiency and clarity, enhancing the student experience.

Kelly's meticulous documentation and communication skills ensure that information is clear, accurate, and timely, making complex university regulations accessible to all. Beyond her professional excellence, Kelly's warm personality and active listening skills have fostered a supportive and positive environment within the department.

Her dedication to improving student experiences and her ability to foster positive relationships across the university make her an invaluable asset to Concordia.

A.J Cordeiro

A.J Cordeiro is more than a media instructor, A.J is a central figure in the Department of Journalism, deeply committed to supporting students' growth and well-being. A survey I conducted revealed profound gratitude among students for A.J’s mentorship and technical wizardry. He not only solves complex multimedia issues but also organizes extra-curricular workshops to enhance students' skills.

A.J's impact extends beyond academia; his emotional intelligence and genuine care for students’ mental well-being create a safe space and a sense of community. He goes the extra mile, offering personalized mentorship and emotional support, helping students navigate challenges and encouraging them to reach their potential.

His role as a community builder, connecting students with professionals and advocating on their behalf, further exemplifies his dedication. Even small gestures, like providing food containers for students, underscore his thoughtful support. A.J’s humility and selflessness make those that meet him feel enriched and supported.