OTSU Awards Two Students With Scholarship

This year, in conjunction with the Black Student Collective, the OTSU introduced the Black Excellence in Leadership Award, a scholarship granted to two Black-identifying students who have demonstrated community-building and made a significant impact on the campus community through a leadership position.

Application submissions were reviewed and selected by The Black Student Collective, an OTSU club that aims to create social, academic and professional networks for Black students through education, discussions, wellness, empowerment and the Black experience.

This year’s winners are Onolunosen Aziegbe, who is studying software engineering with a minor in business entrepreneurship, and Breanne McAlpin, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Life Science. Both of these students have distinguished themselves as leaders through continual dedication to advancing opportunities for others, and helping create a culture of support and empowerment on campus.

Congratulations Onolunosen and Breanne, we’re so proud of your hard work!

Onolunosen Aziegbe

I am extremely honored and grateful to accept this prestigious award. Being recognized for my leadership contributions is truly humbling.

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to my family, friends, and mentors who have supported me throughout my journey. Without their unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement, I wouldn't be where I am today. This award is not just a recognition of my hard work but also a testament to the invaluable role they have played in my success.

I also want to thank Ontario Tech University for providing me with countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. The software engineering and business entrepreneurship programs have equipped me with the skills and knowledge to excel in the tech and innovation industry, and the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion has created a supportive environment where I can thrive.

I'm grateful for the chance to have worked with remarkable organizations such as Bombardier Aerospace and Bruce Power, where I gained practical experience in software engineering and data analytics and contributed to cutting-edge projects in my field.

In addition, I have been able to spearhead a variety of student initiatives throughout my academic journey which has allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others. As the Vice President External for the Women in Engineering society, the President of the NSBE Ontario Tech Chapter, a judge at the McMaster Artificial Intelligence Hackathon, Conference Speaker at TechUnder20 and an Outreach Program instructor, I have been able to promote the advancement of underrepresented voices in STEM fields and inspire young people to pursue their passions.

Once again, thank you for this honor, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive difference in my community.

Breanne McAlpin

Celebrating and amplifying success, creativity, and leadership in Black communities defines Black excellence. I am honored to be one of the recipients of the Black Excellence in Leadership Award at Ontario Tech University.

Having the ability and opportunity to learn and grow daily drives me to be passionate about diversity. Being a part of a marginalized community that is integrated into a larger cultural mosaic here at Ontario Tech has allowed me to recognize how integral representation is to the success and longevity of Black history. Being involved in the Ontario Tech community as an Equity Advocate, Director of Events for the Caribbean Student’s Association and Secretary of the Diabetes Club has shown me that there is no limit to success and opportunity.

This award signifies the importance of gaining experience in leadership roles to develop skills and attributes that will become a part of a rich history for Black students. Highlighting students who have contributed to the sustainability of the student body encourages prospective students to strive for excellence and continue to dissolve barriers by entering into spaces where they believe they do not belong.

Black leaders are important and I have been privileged to work with several phenomenal leaders, most of whom are Black women, at Ontario Tech University. Samantha Brown, Eloghosa Avenbuan, Amanda Williams, Kobi-Serran Williams, Liyah-West Fernandez, and Oghenetega (Tega) Ubor are some of the beautiful Black leaders who play an important role in the development of the student body.

Although being involved in the BIPOC community is important, it is vital to extend one’s capacity to other groups within the school community, bringing diversity and inclusion wherever possible. I am beyond honored and grateful to accept this award as I continue to reach for new heights leaving behind a rich history and legacy based on my experiences.