What does it take to keep a university thriving behind the scenes? Employees who pour their hearts into making the institution a better place certainly help.
Every year, the HÂţ» Professional and Managerial Group (DPMG) Awards shines a light on some of the university's most dedicated professionals. The 2025 recipients are a remarkable group, each bringing something unique to our campuses — whether it’s sparking innovation, championing inclusion, or quietly leading with unwavering dedication.Ěý
From navigating complex finances to guiding students through tough times, these individuals show what it means to live HÂţ»â€™s values every day.
Outstanding Achievement Award: Early Career
Emily Huxley Osborne
Advancement
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Since joining HÂţ»â€™s Office of Advancement in 2023, Emily has been a game-changer. Her knack for spotting inefficiencies and her thoughtful leadership led to new tools that streamlined how the team works, paving the way for one of the most successful fundraising years yet. When senior colleagues retired, Emily didn’t hesitate to step up, taking on a key role overseeing stewardship for major donors. Her focus on transparency and accountability earned her a well-deserved promotion to Manager of Principal Giving Stewardship.
Beyond her day-to-day, Emily coordinates the Schulich Leader Scholarship program nationally, handling high-stakes events with grace and warmth. Colleagues say she’s always “a few steps ahead,” blending design savvy, clear communication, and a talent for lifting up those around her. This award celebrates not just what Emily’s done, but the lasting mark she’s leaving on HÂţ».
Adam Guzkowski
Schulich School of Law
At the Schulich School of Law, Adam has redefined what it means to support students. As Assistant Dean of Student and Academic Affairs, they are there for students during their hardest moments — whether they’re facing illness, grief, or academic hurdles. Their blend of compassion and creativity has led to initiatives like the “We Love Feedback” process, which makes the school more responsive, and direct outreach to students struggling academically, ensuring no one slips through the cracks.
Adam’s “Doing the Work” newsletter and their leadership on the equity committee reflect their deep commitment to building a more inclusive community. Colleagues call them a beacon — someone whose kindness and clarity strengthen everyone around them. Their work isn’t just about helping students succeed; it’s about fostering a culture where they feel valued and supported.
Outstanding Achievement Award: Mid-Career
Brittany DeYoung
Faculty of Medicine
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As Finance Manager in the Department of Family Medicine, Brittany has transformed how the department handles finances across three Maritime provinces. Her innovative cost-sharing models and skillful navigation of tough negotiations have secured sustainable funding for critical programs. Known for her calm, practical approach, Brittany is a go-to advisor for faculty leadership.
Her shift to modern tools like SharePoint has made operations smoother, while her equity-focused financial planning ensures diverse contributions are recognized. Colleagues describe her as visionary and collaborative—a leader whose work directly supports HÂţ»â€™s mission to train future health professionals and uplift communities.
Terra Duncan
Bissett Student Success Centre
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Terra’s leadership of the Stay on Track program has changed the game for academic advising at HÂţ». Her student-first approach, rooted in strengths-based coaching and smart assessment tools, has led to an incredible 98% completion rate for participants. Terra’s influence stretches far beyond her program, shaping campus-wide initiatives like Together@Dal and Dal Science Scholars, and even reaching into the community through student volunteer opportunities.
Students call her life-changing, and it’s easy to see why. Terra’s work doesn’t just help students stay on track—it empowers them to become confident, engaged leaders who make a difference.
Outstanding Achievement Award: Long Service
Dan Jackson
Faculty of Science
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For over 20 years, Dan has been a driving force behind the Faculty of Science’s research infrastructure. From the Beaty Centre for Marine Biodiversity to energy-efficient lab retrofits, his vision and project leadership have created spaces where groundbreaking discoveries happen. Dan’s collaborative approach to lab design ensures those spaces are flexible and built to last.
His work on massive projects like the Ocean Tracking Network and Ocean Frontiers Institute—some of HÂţ»â€™s biggest research grants ever—shows his ability to think big and deliver. Respected for his planning, problem-solving, and clear communication, Dan is a cornerstone of HÂţ»â€™s research community.
Nick Tentomas
Facilities Management
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Nick has spent nearly 30 years quietly revolutionizing the tech side of Facilities Management. From crafting custom tracking systems to leading a major platform overhaul, his IT expertise has brought operations into the modern era while advancing equity. Known for his humility and deep knowledge, Nick has a rare ability to turn complex systems into tools anyone can use.
His work supports everything from audits to operational transparency, making the university run smoother. Though he prefers to stay behind the scenes, Nick’s creativity and dedication have left an undeniable impact across HÂţ».
IDDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Decolonization, Equity & Accessibility) Award
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Amina Abawajy
Equity and Inclusion
Amina is transforming equity work at HÂţ» with her dynamic approach to education and programming. From launching the Human Rights and Equity Conference to leading anti-racism workshops, she’s building trust and strengthening the university’s commitment to inclusion. Through the IDEIA Education Collective and her mentorship of Peer Educators, Amina fosters change from the ground up.
Her ability to handle tough conversations with grace and clarity makes her a standout leader. Amina’s work isn’t just about policies — it’s about creating a community where everyone feels seen and valued.
Shirin Shaikh
Graduate Studies
As Program Coordinator of the BIPOC Mentoring Academy, Shirin has breathed new life into a vital support network for equity-deserving graduate students. Her inclusive outreach has boosted participation by 50 per cent, while her leadership in events, mentoring, and equity workshops has deepened connections across campus and beyond. From food drives to caucus development, Shirin’s work builds resilience and belonging.
Her award celebrates her vision and her tireless dedication to empowering others, making HÂţ» a more inclusive place for all.