Honouring Outstanding Student Leaders: The Dean’s Award for Excellence

The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Student Leadership

The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Student Leadership recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, volunteer service, and dedication to enhancing the student experience at The College of Social and Applied Human Science (CSAHS), in alignment with our College's mission, vision and values.

Recipients of this award inspire and encourage others through their dedication to creating a positive change in their school or community. It recognizes students who demonstrate qualities such as responsibility, initiative, teamwork, and a strong commitment to service, as well as those who lead by example and contribute to an inclusive and supportive environment.

The College of Social and Applied Human Science – Student Alliance (CSAHS-SA)

The College of Social and Applied Human Science – Student Alliance (CSAHS-SA) is a student-led organization representing over 5,000 undergraduate students at the University of Guelph. The CSAHS-SA organizes community and educational events that offer students opportunities to fully engage in campus life and maximize their university experience. 

The 2025 recipients of the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Student Leadership are Alexis Snider and Zein Talaba from the CSAHS-SA. Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding their peers and organizing events that foster a strong sense of community and belonging within the College.

Alexis and Zein were invited to reflect on their leadership experience with the CSAHS-SA, share their greatest takeaway as CSAHS student leaders, and offer words of advice to future Gryphons. 

The Power of Getting Involved: Where Confidence Meets Community

For many students, the university experience is as much about personal growth as it is about academics. Over the past two years, Alexis Snider, President of the CSAHS-SA, has seen her leadership involvement profoundly shape and transform her university journey by allowing her to build confidence, strengthen her leadership abilities, and create a deep sense of belonging within the campus community.

When Alexis first arrived at the University of Guelph, she was eager to find opportunities beyond the classroom—what she truly longed for was a sense of community. Alexis highlights, “I needed a community, and I found that within the CSAHS-SA."

“Throughout my two years with the CSAHS-SA, I have been able to strengthen not only my leadership skills but my confidence,” Alexis shares. Through the CSAHS-SA, Alexis connected with amazing students and faculty and gained “priceless knowledge” that she will carry forward beyond graduation. 

Her advice for incoming students? Get involved! “It doesn’t have to be through your college's student association, but getting involved in any student group on campus is a surefire way to make friends and strengthen your skills," she explains. Whether it’s a club that sparks curiosity or an academic organization that deepens classroom learning, Alexis believes that every experience contributes something meaningful: "You will take valuable pieces of information from every experience.” 

For Alexis, the CSAHS-SA was more than a volunteer and leadership opportunity—it was a launchpad for growth, leadership, and lifelong friendships.  

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Opportunity

In the often-unpredictable landscape of university life, Zein Talaba’s unexpected step into a student association became a transformative journey of leadership, community, and personal growth. 

“I decided to join the CSAHS-SA after a friend encouraged me to run for a position so they wouldn’t have to run alone,” Zein recalls. “Ironically, that friend stepped down before the school year even began, and I ended up taking on both my role and theirs.” 

While such a twist might have overwhelmed others, it became a pivotal moment for Zein. “Even in this short journey, I’ve significantly grown in my leadership abilities,” he reflects. “I’ve learned so much about the University—things I never would have discovered had I not gotten involved.

Taking a leap into the unknown led to a powerful realization for Zein: “By joining the CSAHS-SA, I unexpectedly found something every university student hopes for—a sense of belonging. Surrounded by so many driven and inspiring people, this experience has been both positive and motivating,” he shares. 

Zein’s advice to future Gryphons is both simple and impactful: “Put yourself out there! Get involved in anything that sparks your interest—whether it's clubs, college governments, or other campus communities. The University of Guelph is full of welcoming spaces; all it takes is searching, getting involved, and you’ll eventually find the one that feels right for you.” 

What began as a gesture of support for a friend transformed into an experience that will leave a lasting impact on Zein’s personal and professional journey—a testament to the unexpected rewards of stepping outside of your comfort zone. 

Congratulations to Alexis and Zein, the 2025 recipients of the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Student Leadership! Their dedication and exceptional contributions to the University of Guelph and the CSAHS community sets a remarkable example for their peers.