Ed Vernon was named Alumni Volunteer of the Year 2022 in recognition of decades of commitment and service that he has given to Queen’s, contributing to important projects across the University, including leading the philanthropic campaign to create a home for Queen’s Management School at Riddel Hall, driving the launch of the Bright Future Collective which enlists corporate support for widening participation, and service through the Foundation Board.

Queen’s students are distinguished alumni in the making. Every year thousands of individual students make a positive impact by participating in community service projects, internships and volunteer activities both on and off campus. Those nominated for the Student of the Year Award should have made a significant contribution to the life of the University, or to the lives of others, during the previous 12 months. In the past, this award has gone to individuals for their volunteer work or their entrepreneurism and to groups of law, medical and engineering students for initiatives and breakthroughs in their respective fields.

An Award will be made to the graduate or group of graduates who has (have) committed time and expertise to the University in support of its goals, to advance the student experience, enhance the University’s reputation, support student recruitment activities, improve the employability of our students, support our alumni community, or to assist in governance. The Alumni Volunteer of the Year may have mentored staff or students, provided student placements or projects, supported the University, association or committee governance, written graduate profiles, spoken at Queen’s events, organised alumni events and activities or otherwise supported the University with a substantial gift of time. A selection criteria will be used by the panel to assess all nominations.