Distinguished Service Awards

Inaugurated by the University Council in 1974, this award recognizes individuals who have made the University a better place through their extraordinary contributions. Queen’s faculty, staff, students, retirees, members (elected, appointed, ex officio or honorary) of the Council, the Queen's Alumni Association, and the Board of Trustees are invited to nominate candidates for a Queen’s Distinguished Service Award.

Mark your Calendars! The Distinguished Service Awards celebration will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Check back for more details closer to the event.  


 

Nominations

The nominations period for 2024 awards is now open. Nominations will close on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 4pm ET.

For additional details, including selection criteria and nomination guidelines/process, please click here.

Please contact the University Secretariat at ucouncil@queensu.ca if you have questions about the Distinguished Service Award or the nomination process.  

The Nomination Form (click here to open the online form).

NOTE: If you would like to review the Nomination Form in advance of completing the online form, a PDF version can be viewed hereThis form is provided for information only. Nominations must be submitted using the online form.

2023 Distinguished Service Awards Recipients

The 2023 recipients of the Distinguished Service Award are (listed in alphabetical order).

Christine Berga

Trusted associate of five Principals since 1978, providing critical support to the leadership of Queen’s and an integral role in a multitude of operations, a shining example of service, loyalty, integrity, commitment, and dedication to the betterment of the University. 

Elizabeth Jane Errington

Professor of History since 1996, and inspiring academic leader who has made enduring contributions to graduate supervision, departmental and university service, pioneering work in community engagement, pathbreaking scholarship, and influence on the academy as a whole.

Anita Lister

Departmental Manager of the Biomedical and Molecular Sciences unit, dedicated staff member since 1978, and critical facilitator of growth in undergraduate programming in the Faculty of Health Science, who is wholly committed to the learning experience of all students.

Elspeth Murray

Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Social Impact, Smith School of Business, an innovative thinker and pioneer who created and prioritized entrepreneurial opportunities for students, changing the landscape of business education at Queen’s and across the country.

Brenda Reed

Head Librarian, Faculty of Education, dedicated to ensuring that students have access to the resources they need, providing leadership and guidance in learning and research services, and caring deeply about success for students, staff, and community members.   

Colette Steer

Manager, Graduate Experience, for the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, recruiter, event innovator, communications expert, member of the Board of Trustees, and tireless name reader at Convocation ceremonies, involved in all aspects of the graduate student experience, and ensuring every opportunity for the success of each graduate student at Queen’s. 

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2023 Distinguished Service Awards, click here. To access photos taken during the reception and awards presentation, click here

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2022 Distinguished Service Award, click here.

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2020 & 2021 Distinguished Service Awards, click here