On November 16, Athletics and Student Engagement hosted a National Scholar Brunch to celebrate 40 NC student-athletes, representing seven Knights teams, who received the 2023-24 Canadian College Athletic Association (CCAA) National Scholar Award.
The CCAA National Scholar Award recognizes outstanding academic accomplishments among CCAA student-athletes. To be recognized, individuals must achieve honours standing at their respective institutions during the current academic year while competing as members of their institution’s intercollegiate sports program. At NC, a student-athlete must complete the season with an average of 80% or higher in their academic programs, demonstrating excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
Hosted at The Core at NC’s Welland Campus, the brunch provided a formal awards ceremony to celebrate recipients of the National Scholar Award, initially announced by the CCAA on September 13.
Michele O’Keefe, NC’s Director of Athletics and Student Engagement, kicked off the brunch with a warm welcome to all students and guests.
“The Niagara College Knights National Scholar Brunch is always a special event,” said Michele O’Keefe. “Our student-athletes, who balance their varsity sports and academics exceptionally well, deserve to be recognized. Celebrating 40 student-athletes this year is spectacular!”
NC’s Vice President of Students, Chris McGrath, and Vice President, Academic, Fiona Allan, also joined the brunch to address the student-athletes and celebrate their successes. Other members of the NC community who joined the celebration included Carol Phillips, Dean, Community Services, Justice and Fitness Studies; Evan DiValentino, Dean, Business and Environment; Leo Tiberi, Dean, Media, Trades and Technology; Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences; David Atherton, Dean, Academic and Liberal Studies Division; Darrell Clarke, Associate Dean, School of Trades; and Leigh Cunningham, Senior Director, Libraries and Academic Support Services.
Students and guests enjoyed a delicious brunch provided by the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC). Following the meal, each student was individually called to the stage during an award ceremony where they received their certificate and a Niagara College Knights lapel pin in honor of their CCAA National Scholar Award.
NC Knights continue to excel both in the classroom and through their extracurricular activities, serving as exemplary role models within the College community. We applaud their outstanding achievements, acknowledging the challenging balance they maintain between academics and athletics, as well as their dedication and hard work that drive their success.
To learn more about NC student-athletes who earned the Canadian College Athletic Association National Scholar Awards, read the September 19 article here.
