2nd Annual Black Excellence Graduation Celebration

The path towards pursuing a post secondary degree is marked by a unique journey of self discovery, learning and overcoming unexpected challenges. The BSSC would like to recognize how Black students continue to defy the odds in the midst of trials and triumphs, with a strength that embodies a spirit of resilience.

Value: $1000
Eligibility: To be awarded to a Black identifying undergraduate or graduate student who has modelled a spirit of resilience in the face of challenging circumstances, during their post-secondary journey.
How To Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “What was the most significant challenge you faced within your undergraduate or graduate journey and why? Lastly, how did you overcome this challenge and continue moving forward towards your degree?” We invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Eligibility: To be awarded to a Black identifying undergraduate or graduate student who has modelled critical thinking, problem solving and actively mobilizes change within their classroom and/or community.
How To Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

Whether our advocacy is seen on the frontlines, online or offline, every action towards creating a world that is equitable and inclusive of our identities is equally powerful in making a difference. The BSSC would like to recognize Black students who are action-oriented and deeply committed to making a powerful difference on campus, community and within the world at large.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “How have you contributed to creating positive change in the world around you, and how do you plan to make a lasting impact after your time at McMaster?” No impact is too big or too small, we invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to a Black male-identifying undergraduate or graduate student who has modelled authenticity, excellence and servant leadership whose actions uplift others. This award intends to recognize all eligible candidates equally without bias.  We respect your right to self-identify privately for the purpose of your application, and will not disclose any personal information upon conferring this award.
Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

In recognition of the unique misconceptions that Black men often have to confront in professional, personal and academic spaces, it is critically important to shed a light on their achievements and impact on others. The BSSC aims to recognize the breadth of their strength, intelligence and tireless determination to succeed against all odds.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “What has been your greatest achievement during your time at McMaster and why? In addition, how did it impact others?” We invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to a Black female-identifying undergraduate or graduate student who has modelled authentic excellence and leadership whose actions have led to a positive impact on others. This award intends to recognize all eligible candidates equally without bias.  We respect your right to self-identify privately for the purpose of your application, and will not disclose any personal information upon conferring this award.
Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

In recognition of the cultural, spiritual and diverse intersections held by Black female-identifying students, it is especially significant to highlight how they continue to set the bar of excellence high while carrying the weight of invisible burdens on their shoulders. The BSSC aims to recognize and celebrate all the ways that these young women have had to stand tall, be bold and trailblaze towards paths that have not always been carved out for them.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “What does Black girl magic mean to you, and how have you contributed to positive change within your community?” We invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to an outstanding Black identifying graduating student whose art speaks to at least one of the core values held by the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC).
Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

The creation of art is a powerful expression of talent that often tells a story, whether it is curated through art, music or dance. The BSSC would like to recognize the creativity of a Black identifying individual whose art has had an impact on their community, and peers and aligns well with our collective mission to empower Black youth.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250-word statement in response to the following: “How does your art speak to at least two of our core values: Ubuntu, Celebrating the diversity of African heritage, Collaboration and Unity.” For the purpose of this award, art is considered paintings, photography, digital art and music. We also invite you to submit a sample of your art.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to a Black identifying undergraduate or graduate student who has modelled authentic excellence and servant leadership by empowering others.
Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

The ACFAM Call to Action Letter and the Black Student-Athlete review sparked an institutional shift within McMaster that birthed the Black Student Success Centre. The BSSC would like to acknowledge the ground-breaking legacy of Black Student-athletes within our campus by celebrating the ways in which their voices and collective action have embodied the power of Inclusive Excellence in practice.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “How has your experience as a Black Student-Athlete inspired you to enhance the campus experience for your peers within Athletics and across the wider McMaster community?” We invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to a Black identifying undergraduate or graduate international individual who has modelled authentic excellence through courage and community involvement.
Apply: Through Awardspring
Deadline: April 15th, 2023 at 11:59 PM

International students enrich our campus with their global skills, social and cultural diversity and expertise that bring endless value to the learning experiences of their peers. The BSSC would like to recognize the unique journey of Black-identifying international students and their contributions both within and outside of the classroom.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “How has your experience as a Black-identifying international student at McMaster shaped you as a person, what activities were most impactful for you and what lessons would you share with others on this journey?” We invite you to share meaningful examples that best represent your lived experiences from campus, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, home and/or community activities.

Value: $1000
Criteria: To be awarded to an outstanding Black-identifying McMaster student organization who have strengthened the campus experience for their peers through active leadership and fostering a sense of community.
Apply: Through Awardspring
Application Requirements: Please select one individual representative to submit this application on your organization’s behalf and specify your affiliation to the group.
Deadline: April 15th,  2023 at 11:59 PM

Since 2010, the African Caribbean Faculty Association of McMaster (ACFAM) have been the foundation of enhancing the campus experience for Black staff, faculty and students. The BSSC would like to recognize the next generation of trailblazers represented in a Black student-led organization, to celebrate their overall involvement and dedication to supporting their peers.

Personal Statement:

Please submit a 250 word statement in response to the following: “How has your student organization contributed to a positive experience for Black students?” We invite you to describe any relevant milestone achievements, programming initiatives within the 2021-2022 school year and all the ways that your collective effort has made an impact on campus and/or within the community.