A total of 502 varsity student-athletes are being recognized as 2020-21 Academic All-Stars, having earned at least a 3.5 grade-point average over the past academic year at Queen's University.

“During a time of unparalleled obstacles to educational, athletic and personal goals, these 502 students displayed the commitment and perseverance that make them fantastic ambassadors for their peers, our Gaels teams, and the university,” says Mark Green, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic). “The drive, energy, and teamwork displayed by this group to excel in both the Academic and Athletic arenas – particularly during a pandemic – truly embodies the meaning of student-athlete."

Over 50 per cent of Queen's student-athletes earned Academic All-Star recognition, a new record for our program.

“We are thrilled to celebrate and recognize our Academic All-Stars who represent the initiative and ambition of our students. Queen’s is among the top five schools in Canada for the number of Academic All-Stars,” says Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs, Ann Tierney. “Congratulations to all recipients and I would also like to acknowledge and thank our coaches, academic advisors, Athletics and Recreation and Student Wellness Services staff, and our faculties and departments, who together create the environment that makes it possible for our student-athletes to excel at this level.”

The varsity clubs with the highest GPAs were Field Hockey and Triathlon, while the highest GPAs from varsity teams were from Men’s Soccer and Men’s Hockey and Women’s Soccer (tied).

In addition, Queen’s Athletics and Recreation has named the 2020-21 Nixon Academic Leadership Awards, given to a male and female athlete from a varsity team and club, who exemplify achievement in academics, community service, and fair play in their sport. This year's recipients are Azalea Walc (Triathlon), Rory McEwen (Fencing), Laura Yantha (Women’s Cross Country/Track & Field), and Alexander Pipchuk (Men’s Rugby). These awards are named in honour of benefactors Gord and Janet Nixon.

View the full list of Queen’s 2020-21 Academic All-Stars.