Each year, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board Student Recognition Awards celebrate excellence in student leadership. Students are chosen by their principals and/or vice-principals for their demonstration of initiative, supported by the will to succeed, the dedication to finish what they started, and the commitment to achieve their personal best. Congratulations to this year’s recipient from Merivale High School, Mackenzie Alexander!

Staff and students alike gravitate towards Mackenzie Alexander’s sunny, encouraging outlook. She has worked hard to achieve a strong academic record and maintain her numerous extracurricular activities, while also inspiring staff and students with her dedication to the life and spirit of MHS. Over the years she has held several roles on Student Council, including Co-President, which has been a solo endeavour for much of the past year. She has been a tireless advocate for Student Council initiatives like the Fall Fitness challenge and Winter Activity Battle of the Grades, and has championed virtual events like the Holiday Hoopla talent showcase and Spirit Weeks. Mackenzie has done everything possible to bring back student centred activities that were impacted by COVID-19: events like the recent Culture Day have succeeded due to Mackenzie’s work engaging students who might not have otherwise participated in school activities. In addition, her role as Captain of the field hockey team saw her encouraging others and being an active role model for young women in sports, both at school and in the community. Her grit and determination in academics are also an inspiration, demonstrating what can be achieved through strength of character. Mackenzie says her main goal in school life is to have a 'positive outcome' on those around her, and her peers and teachers know she will carry that spirit onwards!