Welcome
Community Awards
UCC Catalyst Award
About the Award
Purpose and Mission
The UCC Catalyst Award (formerly the Young Old Boy of Distinction Award) was established to recognize and celebrate young alumni who are making a positive and lasting impact on their world. The award is more than a recognition of early professional success; it is a celebration of leadership, character, and meaningful impact in the years immediately following graduation.
Just as a catalyst sparks change in a chemical reaction, this award honors young alumni who use their values and experiences to enact positive change in their communities, personal ventures, and professional fields. By highlighting these diverse and nonlinear pathways to success, we aim to:
-
Inspire current students to follow their own passions and pursue their dreams, demonstrating that meaningful impact does not require decades to achieve.
-
Celebrate excellence at an early stage, showcasing the remarkable accomplishments of our alumni globally.
-
Strengthen lifelong connections by bringing recipients back into the UCC community to mentor and educate the next generation of Old Boys.
Alignment with UCC Values
The award is deeply grounded in UCC’s Mission, Vision, and values. Recipients must embody the principles of integrity, leadership, and service, reflecting the plurality and diversity of the UCC community.
Nomination Process
Nominating a young alumnus is a simple, approachable process designed to take less than 10 minutes.
-
Who Can Nominate: Any member of the UCC community—including alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends—is encouraged to submit a nomination.
-
Requirements: A minimum of one (1) nominator and at least one (1) supporter is required.
-
Self-Nominations: We welcome and encourage self-nominations.
-
Submission: Please complete the Nomination Google Form by May 1, 2026.
-
Validity: Nominations remain valid for three (3) years. If a candidate is not selected, they may be renominated once their initial window expires.
Ready to celebrate a Changemaker?
For further information contact:
Criteria and Eligibility
Award Description
-
Up to five (5) recipients may be honoured annually.
-
Award recipients are individuals who have achieved excellence in their field while upholding the principles and values of the College.
-
The selection process intentionally seeks recipients from diverse industries and backgrounds to represent the breadth of the UCC network.
Eligibility
-
Age: Nominees should be under 40 years of age at the time of nomination (exceptional circumstances may be considered).
-
Alumni Status: Must be an alumnus of Upper Canada College, defined as an individual who attended for two years or longer and left in good standing.
-
Status: Nominees must be living at the time of nomination; posthumous awards are not considered.
© 2026 Upper Canada College. All Rights Reserved.