Assiniboine recognizes student excellence, award winners

Assiniboine College recognized more than 70 students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and community involvement at the college’s annual Student Achievement Celebration this week at the Clarion Hotel.

One to Watch awards went to 54 students, selected based on academic merit, leadership, contributions to student life, community involvement and volunteerism.

Keira Stephens, a student in the Media & Communications program, received one of the college’s One to Watch awards.

"I was really surprised to learn that I would be receiving this award. It felt good to be recognized for my hard work during the program, and it makes me even more excited for my future in this industry," said Stephens. "My experience during my two years has been the best that I could ask for. I’ve had multiple opportunities to work on cool and fun productions and projects. All of the instructors are great, and despite only knowing them for two years, I felt they really made an effort to get to know everyone. I will always be appreciative for the mentoring I have received."

In addition to the One to Watch awards, the Assiniboine College Students’ Association presented four awards recognizing students for their leadership and engagement on campus. Among those recipients are outgoing Students’ Association president Alec Walters, and Danielle Fisher, VP of Engagement with the Students’ Association.

“I appreciate all the opportunities being involved with the council has provided,” said Fisher. “When I first came to Assiniboine, I wasn’t participating in anything. Then my family encouraged me to get involved in the students’ association and it changed my experience. It helped me come out of my comfort zone, and I don’t regret becoming involved.”

Cougars Athletics also presented 22 awards to student athletes, including MVP and Coaches Choice awards for each Cougars team. Nathaniel Berube was named Male Athlete of the Year and MVP, while Kylee Peake received Female Athlete of the Year along with an MVP nod. This adds to a stellar season where Peake played an integral role in the Cougars success, including a whopping 16 kills in a pivotal final game enroute to the Cougars Women’s volleyball squad capturing the MCAC championship.

Nathaniel Berube reflected on the season, and what this recognition meant to him personally, and to his team.

“I’m really proud to have this opportunity. Being a Cougars athlete, you get a lot of one-on-one mentorships, and you get a chance to play with your teammates at a high level. Honestly, it’s been amazing, I cannot wait to see where this program goes, it looks really promising.”

As for Peake, she graduates from Assiniboine as one of the women’s volleyball team’s most decorated competitors, named an All-Canadian by the Canadian Collegiate Athletics Association in 2025 and 2026, a two-time Assiniboine female athlete of the year and this year’s MVP.

“It is a pretty awesome feeling,” said Peake. “There are a lot of great athletes in all the programs here, so it definitely is something I will celebrate. Being a Cougars athlete has been amazing. It is definitely one of the best coaching experiences I’ve ever had, they were encouraging, caring, and made this a wonderful season for us all.”

“Student involvement in the many facets of college life is a part of what makes Assiniboine a vibrant place to learn,” said Danielle Adriaansen, Vice President Enrolment. “Celebrating these accomplishments is an important part of our college culture. We were pleased to recognize students this week for the many ways they contribute and excel.”