Distinguished Service Awards

Inaugurated by the University Council in 1974, this award recognizes individuals who have made the University a better place through their extraordinary contributions. Queen’s faculty, staff, students, retirees, members (elected, appointed, ex officio or honorary) of the Council, the Queen's Alumni Association, and the Board of Trustees are invited to nominate candidates for a Queen’s Distinguished Service Award.


 

2025 Distinguished Service Awards Recipients

The 2025 recipients of the Distinguished Service Award are (listed in alphabetical order).

Stephen Archer

Professor and former Head of the Department of Medicine with 13 years of service at Queen’s, trailblazing physician-scientist, and transformative academic leader. As founder of the Translational Institute of Medicine and the TMED graduate program, he positioned Queen’s as a nationally and internationally recognized hub for translational research. A visionary architect of renewal in clinical care, education, and equity, he also led critical pandemic response efforts and developed sustainable funding models to support academic growth. With over 300 publications and a deep commitment to mentorship, his leadership has reshaped the Department of Medicine and strengthened Queen’s reputation for innovation.

Heather Black

Queen’s alumna and volunteer leader with over four decades of transformative service to the University. From QUAA President to elected member of the University Council, to elected member of the Board of Trustees, she has held nearly every major alumni and governance role, leaving a legacy of thoughtful leadership, principled mentorship, and inclusive community-building. A champion of alumni engagement and student support, she is both a behind-the-scenes force and a front-line connector whose passion for Queen’s and deep institutional knowledge continues to shape the University’s future in enduring and meaningful ways.

Tianna Edwards

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator at the Yellow House Student Centre for Equity and Inclusion with eight years of service at Queen’s, alumna, dedicated advocate, visionary leader, and cornerstone of the Black student experience. Tianna has reshaped student life through transformative initiatives such as Black@Queen’s, Black Swims, and the Black Student Caucus, and was instrumental in advancing the Scarborough Charter. Tireless in creating spaces of belonging, joy, and healing, she fosters mentorship, community, and systemic change. Her work bridges the University and the broader Kingston community, leaving a profound and lasting impact on equity, inclusion, and student well-being.

Takis Katsabanis

Associate Professor in the Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining with over 37 years of dedicated service, recognized for transformative leadership in engineering education through the development of a fully online Bachelor of Mining Engineering Technology program that expanded access and fostered innovation within the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. Provided steady guidance during multiple departmental transitions, led essential accreditation reviews, and managed unique research facilities critical to safety and student learning. Committed mentor and advocate for academic excellence whose contributions have significantly enhanced the University’s international reputation, strengthened its academic programs, and supported the growth and success of the broader university community.

Sandra Murray

With an extraordinary 37 years of dedicated service at Queen’s, a foundational pillar of support and excellence within the Centre for Teaching and Learning. Beginning as a receptionist/secretary and progressing to impactful leadership with unwavering commitment until retirement, she made indispensable contributions to faculty and staff. Her work has been critical in sustaining and advancing teaching excellence, fostering a rich academic environment that benefits generations of educators and learners alike, leaving an enduring legacy defined by steadfast dedication, generosity, and an unparalleled support network vital to the Queen’s academic community.

Ann Tierney

Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs since 2011 and a distinguished alumna, led one of the largest and most comprehensive student affairs portfolios in Canada, significantly enriching the student experience across housing, athletics, financial aid, and wellness. Renowned for pioneering initiatives that advance student access, inclusion, and well-being, including need-based awards, food security programs, and campus climate improvements, her leadership has fostered a more equitable and supportive University environment. Her impact extends nationally through her expertise and advocacy, shaping best practices in student services and contributing broadly to the success and reputation of the institution.

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2024 Distinguished Service Awards, click . To view the photos taken at the reception and awards by Stephen Wild, please click . 

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2023 Distinguished Service Award, click .

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2022 Distinguished Service Award, click .

To watch the full recording of the virtual presentation of the 2020 & 2021 Distinguished Service Awards, click

Nominations

Nominations for 2026 will open in February 2026. 

For additional details, including selection criteria and nomination guidelines/process, please click here.

Please contact the University Secretariat at ucouncil@queensu.ca if you have questions about the Distinguished Service Award or the nomination process.  

The Nomination Form (click here to open the online form).

NOTE: If you would like to review the Nomination Form in advance of completing the online form, a PDF version can be viewed hereThis form is provided for information only. Nominations must be submitted using the online form.