Awards

Celebrating Youth STEM Excellence

Youth Science Canada celebrates excellence and dedication to youth STEM development through various recognition programs. From honouring the volunteers who make our programs possible to acknowledging organizations that support our mission, these awards reflect our commitment to recognizing those who inspire the next generation of Canadian scientists and innovators.

Distinguished Service Award

Every year, Youth Science Canada recognizes up to 10 volunteers and staff who have made outstanding contributions to the organization or its programs at the local, regional, provincial, or national level. The Distinguished Service Award celebrates innovation, leadership and length of service.

Nominate someone exceptional: If you know someone who should be recognized for their outstanding contributions to YSC or STEM fairs, submit your nomination materials—cover letter, completed nomination form, nominee information, and a digital photo—by January 31 each year.

Honorary Member for Life

The Honorary Member for Life designation represents the highest honour bestowed by Youth Science Canada’s Board of Directors. This recognition is reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the development and promotion of the organization and youth science in Canada.

The Board of Directors may, from time to time, elect Honorary Members for Life, persons of distinction whose leadership, vision, and dedication have significantly shaped Youth Science Canada’s impact on Canadian youth.

Honorary Members for Life:

Terry Allen, Calgary AB – 2005
Reni Barlow, Ottawa ON – 2015
Carole Charlebois, Longueil QC – 2011
Gerry Cooke*, Regina SK – 2005
Fraser Head*, Calgary AB – 2022
Patti Leigh, Vancouver BC – 2005
Louis Silcox, New Hamburg ON – 2003
Patrick Whippey, London ON – 2004

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*deceased

Awards Received by Youth Science Canada

Youth Science Canada has been recognized for its contributions to science promotion and community development in Canada. These honours reflect our decades-long commitment to empowering young Canadians through STEM engagement.

2003
ITAC Community IT Hero Award
Information Technology Association of Canada
The award is presented in recognition of leadership and dedication to community improvement through the innovative use of information technology. ITAC is now TechNation.

1996
Michael Smith Award for Science Promotion
Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
The award honours individuals and groups who make an outstanding contribution to the promotion of science in Canada, through activities encouraging popular interest in science or developing science abilities. These awards are now the NSERC Awards for Science Promotion. Visit NSERC for details.

Canada-Wide Science Fair Awards

For information about awards presented to students at the Canada-Wide Science Fair, including Grand Awards, Excellence Awards, Challenge Awards, Special Awards, and Scholarships, visit our CWSF Awards page.

Each year, nearly $2 million in prizes, scholarships, and exclusive opportunities are presented to Canada’s top young scientists and innovators at CWSF.