2026 CCSL Outstanding Contribution Award winners

Kristen Russell

Kristen Russell is a compassionate student leader whose work has advanced inclusion, accessibility and arts-based healing at Concordia and beyond. As a Peer Wellness Ambassador, she introduced an arts-based workshop series for students with chronic illness and helped launch the Sensory Space Initiative to support neurodivergent students managing anxiety and stress. Through volunteer leadership with the Art Matters Festival and Concordia’s Fine Arts Reading Room, she has championed accessibility and sustainability in community programming. Kristen’s broader work in mental health, peer mentorship and support for migrant and Indigenous communities reflects a deeply caring approach that has left a lasting positive impact.

Claudia Beaudoin

Claudia Beaudoin is a dedicated student leader whose energy, initiative and service have made a lasting impact on campus life at Concordia University. Over three years, she has taken on key roles across student associations, including Events Coordinator for the Journalism Student Association, founder of a book club for the Undergraduate Translation Student Association and President of both the Concordia Tea Enthusiast Association and the Modern Chinese Student Association. Claudia has collaborated with numerous student groups, supported their visibility through volunteer photography and contributed to The Link as both a writer and editor, while also assisting with departmental research.

Abby Rose Dar Juan

Abby Rose Dar Juan is a student-centered leader whose work has strengthened support, mentorship and belonging across the Concordia community. As Social Media Director for the Concordia Student Union, a Peer Mentor with Connect Concordia and former Vice-President of Marketing for the Filipino Organization of Concordia University Students, she has created accessible resources, led skill-building initiatives and offered thoughtful, individualized mentorship. Beyond these roles, Abby Rose extends her impact as a lifestyle content creator, sharing practical guidance on academic tools, organization, and campus resources with thousands of students. Her leadership is defined by authenticity, generosity, and care.

Hacer Dila Polat

Hacer Dila Polat is an International Business student and emerging leader recognized for strengthening connections between students and university services at Concordia. As a Student Ambassador at Concordia Continuing Education, Hacer Dila builds community for international students through cultural programming and transition support. In her role as Outreach Ambassador for Career Management Services, she promotes career resources and professional development across faculties. Within the John Molson International Business Association, Hacer Dila has served as VP of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and now as VP of Internal Affairs. Through her initiative, inclusivity and service, Hacer Dila has made a meaningful, campus-wide impact.

Mariama Diarietou Kane

Mariama Diarietou Kane is a creative and community-minded student leader who has fostered connection, empowerment and belonging at Concordia University. Through her work as a hospital volunteer, children’s science educator and Assistant Coordinator at Concordia’s NouLa Black Student Centre, Mariama has developed inclusive programming that connects students with mentorship, academic advising, scholarships and support services. She is especially recognized for creating the “Insider Healthcare” event, which brought Black healthcare professionals together to share candid insights and make healthcare careers feel more visible and attainable. Mariama’s initiative and care have helped students build confidence, knowledge and possibility.

Victoria MacBeath

Victoria MacBeath is an educator, advocate and leader whose work has had a lasting impact on student life and learning at Concordia University. She designed the highly sought-after course ARTH 380: Histories of Art History – Craft Theory and Discourse, fostering an accessible, collaborative and student-centered classroom. Beyond teaching, she advances equity and fair working conditions through her leadership in the CREW Union and has contributed to improving accessibility in large courses as an Accessibility Consultant. Through her integrity, innovation and commitment to community care, Victoria has strengthened Concordia’s academic community in meaningful and enduring ways.

Dr. Casey Burkholder

Award of distinction: the Louyse Lussier Student Life Award

Dr. Casey Burkholder, CRC in Social Justice in Youth and Child Studies, is a dedicated scholar and mentor who uses her faculty role to support student well-being and success. Through her JOYLab program, Casey fosters participatory arts-based research with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, providing funding, lab space, authorship and collaborative skill-building. Committed to inclusion, equity and community, she actively supports students traditionally excluded from academia. Known for her generous, warm, and creative approach, Casey cultivates a welcoming environment that encourages students to bring their full selves to learning, research and collaboration, making the academy a more joyful and equitable space.

Barry Wood

Barry Wood is a devoted Building Maintenance Attendant whose dedicated and consistent work has had a meaningful impact on daily life at Concordia University. Through his care and reliability, Barry helps maintain a campus that is clean, safe and welcoming for students, staff and visitors. Especially during weekend shifts, when he often works independently, Barry responds to maintenance needs with resourcefulness and a strong sense of responsibility. Barry’s pride in supporting Concordia’s environment and public image reflects his commitment to student well-being and belonging. Barry’s long-standing service makes him an invaluable member of the university community.

Marc Lajeunesse

Marc Lajeunesse is a leader, educator and community builder whose work has significantly enriched student life at Concordia University. As coordinator of the Technoculture Art and Games (TAG) Lab, North America’s largest games research centre, Marc has created meaningful opportunities for students to collaborate with industry and academic experts. As an instructor in English and Communications, he fosters creative, collaborative learning that has led students to produce a full-length videogame and a short film. Marc has also strengthened Concordia’s ties with key game studies and cultural organizations, inspiring excellence in everyone he works with.

Robin Della Corte

Since joining Concordia’s Department of Journalism in 2020, Robin Della Corte has transformed how the department engages with students, alumni, and prospective students. Through strategic communications, events, social media and mentorship, she has strengthened the student community and fostered their growth. Robin launched the department’s Instagram and LinkedIn accounts and continues to lead its digital presence, keeping students at the forefront. She helped create an alumni webpage showcasing achievements and career pathways for students. Robin coordinates events and leads initiatives that enrich student life, including the Journalist-in-Residence program. As a working journalist, Robin mentors students toward publication in numerous media outlets, supporting their success beyond the classroom.