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Education students recognized for academic excellence at President’s Honour Roll Reception

April 22, 2026
Pictured: President Joy Johnson, Dr. Daniel Laitsch, Kendra Cheung, Giovanna de Almeida, Juliana Di Francesco, Regene Eliseeff, Stephanie Joy Fajilan, Jill Haugland, Aria Jassal, Kayla Okahori, Meena Ressalat, Nicholas Sass, and Angeleah Valeriano. Photo Credit: Patrick Leung

Eleven Faculty of Education students were recognized at 51社区黑料鈥檚 2026 President鈥檚 Honour Roll Reception, held March 30 in the West Gym. Their recognition reflects not only outstanding academic achievement, but also the care, commitment, and passion for learning they bring to the Education community.

For many students, the evening was a chance to pause and reflect on what the honour meant, not just as an individual accomplishment, but as part of a shared journey shaped by connection, perseverance, and purpose.

鈥淚n the Faculty, I feel part of a small and close community, and it was meaningful to reconnect with classmates I didn鈥檛 expect to see again,鈥 says Meena Ressalat, a third-year Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) student. 鈥淚 had the chance to speak with peers who share a similar work ethic, which felt both motivating and reassuring, while also connecting with graduating students, exchanging course recommendations, and reflecting on our shared challenges, projects, and experiences. Overall, I left the event feeling recognized and connected, not only within my Faculty but also within the broader university community.鈥

That sense of connection was echoed by Juliana Di Francesco, a BGS student who will graduate this June, who reflected on how her time in Education has shaped her path forward. 

鈥淚 am sincerely grateful to be recognized as a President鈥檚 Honour Roll recipient this year,鈥 says Di Francesco. 鈥淏eing part of the Faculty has continually strengthened my passions for learning through meaningful classroom experiences, inclusive practices and community engagement, which will vitally influence the future of my educational and teaching endeavours.鈥

For Giovanna De Almeida, a fourth-year BGS student, the recognition was also an opportunity to reflect on the people who supported and inspired her throughout her academic journey.

鈥淚t felt incredibly rewarding to be recognized for my hard work and to be named to the President鈥檚 Honour Roll,鈥 says De Almeida. 鈥淏eing part of the Education community is a true privilege because, throughout my journey at SFU, I鈥檝e been inspired by dedicated professors who have shaped my academic growth and passion for learning.鈥

Hosted by 51社区黑料Ceremonies and Events, the reception brought together students, faculty, and staff from across the university for an evening of celebration and recognition. The event included faculty group photos, a traditional welcome from Elder Marie, remarks from Provost and Vice-President Academic Dilson Rassier and President and Vice-Chancellor Joy Johnson, and opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty representatives, and senior leaders. An optional speed networking activity hosted by Alumni also invited attendees to meet others from across faculties and celebrate the milestone together. 

For the Faculty of Education, the evening was a meaningful opportunity to celebrate students whose academic excellence reflects the values of dedication, community, and lifelong learning.

The Faculty of Education proudly congratulates its President鈥檚 Honour Roll recipients on this well-earned achievement and celebrates the contributions they continue to make to the Education community at SFU.

鈥淓vents like the President鈥檚 Honour Roll Reception remind us that academic excellence is never achieved in isolation. It is shaped through relationships with peers, instructors, and the broader community. It was inspiring to spend time with Education students and see them recognized not only for their achievements, but for the care and commitment they bring to their learning and to one another.鈥

Dr. Daniel Laitsch, Dean, Faculty of Education

Photo Credit: Patrick Leung

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