With physical distancing defining so much of contemporary life, many events across Trent’s campus and beyond have needed to postpone, cancel or innovate. At Gzowski College they chose the third option.

Gzowski College Principal Melanie Buddle and college assistant Alison Peek decided to host a virtual awards ceremony. With almost all presenters and award winners able to attend and willing to make it work, Gzowski College held their first-ever Zoom awards ceremony on the original planned date of Wednesday, April 1. 

While clapping and hand shaking is hard to do with everyone on a computer screen, the ceremony was a wonderful way to hear about the amazing accomplishments of the students of Gzowski College. 

The celebration received a surprise guest when Chancellor Stephen Stohn joined in, welcoming everyone saying “I’m just so delighted to be able to be part of this… it really is amazing that we are all here together.” The virtual gathering was a small but important way to celebrate despite the challenges all face as they end their term without seeing their friends or attending classes in person.

Presenters described the amazing contributions of Gzowski students and the students, in turn, expressed their thanks.  Rachel Smylie, one of two winners of the Robert Lightbody Award, was emotional as she accepted her award: “I don’t even know how to explain how much this university and this college has done for me.”

Did an award ceremony held as a Zoom meeting work perfectly? No. Did participants learn and adapt and still make it happen and enjoy an experience of celebration together? Yes.  Award-winner Yllka Bojku, said it best: “I love Trent, and I’m so happy to be here!” That is how everyone felt, as they celebrated together despite the difficulties imposed by physical distance. 

A special thanks to all who agreed to make the celebration so meaningful by appearing on-screen and presenting awards and congratulations to the Gzowski College 2020 award recipients.

See the recordings of the Gzowski College Awards