Celebrating excellence in experiential learning
The Co-op and Experiential Learning awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of students and employers who have made a significant impact in the world of work-integrated learning. The awards recognize the dedication, innovation, and excellence demonstrated by individuals and organizations in shaping meaningful experiential learning opportunities for University of Windsor students.
2025 Award Categories and Winners
Experiential Learning Partner of the Year: Rocket Innovation Studio
This award recognizes an employer who has made a significant impact on the University of Windsor’s student community. The recipient offers engaging work terms in a dynamic, innovative, and supportive environment, prioritizing the development of skills through experiential learning. Their involvement with the University of Windsor extends beyond the workplace, helping to prepare the next generation of talent by participating in networking events, industry panels, classroom collaborations, and experiential learning programs.
Co-op Employer of the Year: Dayforce
This award recognizes an employer who has made a significant impact on the University of Windsor’s student community. The recipient offers engaging work terms in a dynamic, innovative, and supportive environment, prioritizing the development of skills through meaningful experiential learning opportunities.
Co-op Employer of the Year: Ready, Set, Go
This award recognizes a non-profit employer who has provided meaningful experiential learning opportunities in a dynamic and supportive environment, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in their future career. The recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to providing work-integrated learning opportunities that contribute to building strong communities.
Oustanding Supervisor of the Year
This award recognizes co-op supervisors who have gone above and beyond in providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and learning opportunities to students during co-op work-terms. The recipient creates a positive work environment, providing valuable skill development to help prepare the next generation of professionals.
Scott Williams - Quality Manager, RS Technologies
Darrin Murphy - Project Manager, Green Infrastructure Partners (G.I.P.)
Isabel Pena - Continuous Improvement Manager, AAR Aircraft Services Windsor ULC
Matthew Meloche - Director of Asset Management & System Modernization, Entegrus Inc.
Dilan Silva - Materials Manager, Magna Windsor Modules
Co-op Rising Star Student of the Year
This award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and professionalism in their workplace throughout the winter, summer, and fall 2024 work-terms. We are honoured to present this award to 13 outstanding students, each of whom has gone above and beyond in their respective roles, leaving a lasting impression on their employers and industries.
Shruti Deshpande - University Pension Plan Ontario
Anna Jones - University of Windsor - Wine and Spirits Lab
Jasmin Patel - Magna International Inc.
Connor Damelo - Scotia McLeod Inc.
Abbie Dewhirst - Research Into Internet Systems Inc.
Karandeep Singh Dhillon - Corporation of the City of Windsor
Jovan Djokic - Entegrus Inc.
Malek Mekawi - Stellantis - Autmotive Research Development Centre (ARDC)
Jules Wilson - Irving Shipbuilding
Daniela Aguilar - Ready, Set, Go
Jusmeen Aujla - Green Shield Canada
Mihir Radadiya - Picsume Inc.
Sanujan Raveedran - BASF
VIP-CSL Community Partner of the Year: Connections Early Years Family Centre
This award recognizes a community partner that provides meaningful volunteer opportunities for students that not only enhance learning, but also address critical needs in the community through the University of Windsor Career Centre's VIP-Community Service Learning Program. The community partner helps students gain hands-on experience, develop leadership skills, and contribute to positive chance, all while helping to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
VIP-CSL Student of the Year: Laura Middleton - UHC Hub of Opportunities
This award recognizes a student who exemplifies the spirit of community engagement and experiential learning, making a meaningful impact through volunteering and helping to make a lasting impact in the lives of others.
Faculty Career Champion: Fran Meloche, Student Success Coordinator, University of Windsor Faculty of Nursing
The Faculty Career Champion award celebrates a University of Windsor faculty or staff member who has gone above and beyond to support students in achieving their career goals.