The Young Alumna/Alumnus of the Year Award was established to recognize an individual who graduated in the past five years.

Nominated by their peers, recipients embody the spirit of Bishop’s through their professional achievements or community service. Emma Story ’21 is the 2025 recipient.

Emma graduated from Bishop’s with a B.Sc. and is now pursuing an M.Sc. in Sport Management at the University of Florida.

Since 2022, Emma has held many roles at the Abilities Centre in Whitby, Ontario, an organization offering inclusive and accessible programming and services within the community, while also conducting research on inclusion issues and developing frameworks for programs to be implemented across Canada. Today she is the Manager of Recreation and oversees a team of six certified therapists. Emma also manages the Therapeutic Recreation in Schools program, a unique initiative promoting essential skill development for children and youth living with disabilities. Under Emma’s leadership, this program has been integrated in 12 schools across Ontario.

Outside of work, Emma is heavily involved in community initiatives as well. She has worked with Farkhunda Muhtaj, Northern Super League soccer player and social activist, to launch Project Purpose, a new non-profit organization which uses sports to empower underserved communities. She also volunteers as a Mixed Ability Sport Coach to provide recommendations to sporting organizations on reducing barriers for athletes with disabilities. She likewise helps the Therapeutic Recreation program advisory committees of both Durham and Lambton Colleges. Emma is a Member of the Board of Directors for Therapeutic Recreation Ontario and an Advisory Council Member for the Canadian Disability Participation Project 2.0.

Evidently, Emma has made significant contributions to her community through both her work and her volunteerism. Emma strongly exemplifies many of the Bishop’s values: leadership, compassion, and a commitment to community. By applying the knowledge and skills she gained during her time at BU, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her dedication to inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment not only uplifts those around her but also reflects the spirit of service and excellence that defines our alumni community.

List of Past Winners

2024   Pascale Desmarais ’22

2023   TJ Smith ’19

2022   Felicity Burns ‘17

2021   Allie Hurry ’19

2020   Kirsten Dobler ‘17 (*Ms. Dobler declined this award)

2019  Jordan MacNevin  ‘15

2018  Emma Fingler ‘16

2017  Robert Dunfield ‘15