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Three students will be joining the Tricolour Society, one of the most prestigious honours at Queen's.

Hannah Burrows, ArtSci’23, Msc’25, Zaid Kasim, Sci’21, PhD’26, and Ore Maxwell, HealthSci’26, are this year’s recipients of the Agnes Benidickson Tricolour Award, which is given annually by the Office of the Rector to students for “valued and distinguished service, leadership, character, and community impact.”

“This year’s recipients were enthusiastically nominated by students, faculty, and staff at Queen’s for the important roles they have played in supporting student life through innovation, creativity, and joy,” says Rector Niki Boytchuk-Hale. “I look forward to celebrating the dedication of Hannah, Zaid, and Ore at an awards ceremony on April 4.”

Burrows, a curious interdisciplinary master’s student, bridges the gap between academia and philanthropy. She co-founded the non-profit To Help You Reach Knowledge and co-authored a textbook to guide students in securing scholarships and financial aid. Burrows uplifts and inspires those around her as a residence don, teaching assistant, and panelist with her innovative thinking and supportive mentorship.

Kasim, an enthusiastic doctoral student in Civil Engineering, is a long-time leader and advocate. While AMS President, he played a key role in advancing the JDUC revitalization project. As the SGPS Vice President, Kasim established an extensive food insecurity programming partnership roster. Through clubs and committees, Kasim advanced structural equity while mentoring other students.

Maxwell is an inspiring undergraduate student committed to mentorship, advocacy, and building a sense of belonging. She co-founded Queen’s Cancer Kids First, supporting pediatric cancer patients and caregivers through awareness and education. As a Commitment Scholar, Maxwell empowers others through inclusive programming and mentorship, serving as an Equity Ambassador, Residence Don, QSuccess Senior Mentor, and tutor for equity-deserving students in Kingston.

History of the Tricolour Awards

First awarded in 1940, the Tricolour Award has a long history at Queen’s and boasts an impressive list of alumni among its members. Past recipients include Dragons’ Den TV star Michele Romanow, Sc’07, MBA’08; former Bank of Canada governor and Queen’s Chancellor Emeritus David Dodge, Arts'65, LLD’02; architect of the Canadian flag and the Order of Canada John Matheson, Arts’40, LLD’84, who was partly inspired by the Tricolour Society when he helped establish that civilian honour in 1967 as a Member of Parliament.

For more information about the Tricolour Award and this year’s celebration, contact Queen’s Rector Niki Boytchuk-Hale.

The story originally appeared in the Queen's Gazette.