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Community Awards

UCC Catalyst Award

The UCC Catalyst Award recognizes young alumni who are flourishing as their best selves and living the College's values to make a positive difference in their world — and inspiring those around them to do the same. 

Presented annually by the UCC Association Council on behalf of the school, this award celebrates young Old Boys who have channelled their UCC education and experiences into meaningful pathways that reflect their passions.

Just as a catalyst sparks change, recipients are deeply committed to making a positive and lasting impact across personal endeavours, career achievements, and their local or broader communities. Their fields are diverse, their paths often nonlinear. 

Winners of the UCC Catalyst Award are invited back to campus to engage with current students as mentors and role models, strengthening the lifelong connection between alumni and the next generation of Old Boys. 

The selection process intentionally seeks recipients from diverse industries and backgrounds, reflecting the breadth and plurality of the UCC community. 

To be eligible, nominees:
  • Are under 40 years of age at the time of nomination.
  • Attended UCC for two or more years.
  • Exemplify the College’s values of learning, pluralism, service, community and wellbeing.

Up to five recipients may be honoured each year. We welcome nominations from all members of the UCC community.

We're currently accepting nominations for the 2026–27 year! Nominations close at midnight on May 20, 2026.


For further information contact:

Leanne Gardner
Associate Director, Community Relations
416-488-1125 ext. 2232
 

Criteria and Eligibility

  • The award requires a minimum of one nominator and at least one supporter.
  • Any member of the UCC community can nominate or endorse a candidate, including alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, grandparents and friends of UCC. 
  • Nominees must exemplify the College’s values of learning, pluralism, service, community and wellbeing. 
  • Nominees should be under 40 years of age at the time of their nomination; exceptional circumstances may be considered.
  • Nominees must be alumni of Upper Canada College. Alumni are defined as individuals who have attended the College as students in good standing for two years or longer.
  • Nominees should be living at the time of nomination (posthumous nominations will not be considered).