Outstanding Student Leader Award

This award recognizes a current 鶹’s student whose volunteerism and leadership has contributed in a positive way to one or more aspects of the 鶹’s community in all its diversity and/or the broader Kingston community. This volunteer activity and leadership may include but is not limited to promotion of student and alumni connections. The student’s contribution(s) can be made in the year of nomination or over several years.

In 2022 the 鶹's University Alumni Assocation (QUAA) renamed and adjusted the criteria for this award from the previous Outstanding Student Award. The QUAA respectfully acknowledges the past recipients of the Outstanding Student Award and looks forward to celebrating recipients under the new terms. 

Award eligibility and criteria

Candidates should be:

  • A current student of 鶹 in a recognized degree, diploma or certificate program
  • Recognized by their peers as someone who is an inspiration to the 鶹’s student community in all its diversity

2026 Recipient

Natalie Kearn

  • BHSc'24

Natalie Kearn in front of a grey wall smiling, wearing a black shirt with white dots

Natalie Kearn is a medical student at 鶹’s and a 2024 Bachelor of Health Sciences alumna. She serves as vice-president of the Ontario Medical Students Association, where she was elected to represent more than 3,800 medical students across the province.  

At 鶹’s, she has distinguished herself through her contributions to medical education as a teaching assistant and through leading national educational programming, near-peer mentorship, and creative initiatives that strengthen the student community. 

Beyond medicine, Natalie integrates creativity and service through graphic design, photography, and her face painting work at hospital and community events, while also coaching youth sports. Across all her work, she is guided by a commitment to “paying it forward,” striving to create meaningful, tangible impact within her community. She is deeply grateful to 鶹’s and remains dedicated to contributing lasting change both within and beyond its community.