Caring, giving and community-focused – these are just a few words to describe the four outstanding members of the Trinity College community who are the recipients of the 2026 Chancellor William C. Graham Awards.
The awards recognize Trinity students, staff, faculty and alumni who demonstrate commitment to improving the spirit of caring and fostering a positive environment at the college. Congratulations to this year’s recipients (see descriptions below):
- Daniel Assamad
- Madeleine Frechette
- Matthew Kieswetter
- Kay Park
In its eighth year, the Chancellor William C. Graham Awards are given in honour of Chancellor Graham’s generosity of spirit and leadership, and immeasurable contributions to the Trinity community. The Hon. Bill Graham served as Trinity’s 12th Chancellor from 2007 until his passing in August 2022.
“Chancellor Bill Graham was an exemplary Trinity ambassador and extraordinarily generous, and we are grateful for his many contributions to the College. He made a difference at Trinity and beyond and inspired so many to do the same. With the Chancellor William C. Graham Awards, we honour his memory and legacy, and the impact he has had on the Trinity community,” Provost Nicholas Terpstra said. “On behalf of the College, we extend our gratitude to our 2026 recipients of the Chancellor Graham Awards – thank you for your inspirational leadership, dedication to your peers and the College, and for making Trinity a better place for the entire community.”
The Chancellor William C. Graham Awards are given annually to individuals in the four categories: current students; administrative and service staff; academic staff; and alumni. The recipients of the 2026 Chancellor William C. Graham Awards were announced at the Fall Meeting of Corporation, which was held virtually on November 3, 2026.
Below, the summary citation for each recipient is based on the statement provided by the nominator and others in support of the candidate. The citations are brief and will certainly not capture all they contribute to the College, but will give you a snapshot of their impact.
Recipients of the 2026 Chancellor William C. Graham Awards:
Daniel Assamad: Administrative Staff
Daniel has been an important part of the Trinity College community for many years. He began as our first-ever Senior Community Advisor, went on to serve as an Academic Don, left Trinity to pursue his Master’s degree, and returned as a Community Wellness Coordinator for 3 years. Most recently, Daniel agreed to return on a short-term contract as Advisor, Special Projects and Community Care with the Office of the Dean of Students.
Across every role he has held, Daniel has demonstrated the same remarkable qualities: flexibility, initiative, empathy and an unwavering commitment to making the student experience better. He is the person we can turn to when something is difficult, complicated or unexpected, knowing he will approach it with care and professionalism.
Daniel has been on the front lines of some of the most challenging situations our students and College have faced. He has navigated difficult conversations, supporting students and handling incredibly sensitive circumstances with compassion and maturity. His commitment also shows itself in the little things. Daniel is the person who will go far beyond what is expected – if there is something that needs to be done to make Trinity better for students, he will find a way to do it.
Madeleine Frechette: Academic Staff
For the past eight years, Madeleine has dedicated herself to the Trinity College community, first as a student and now as an Academic Don and Senior Academic Don. A passionate leader, mentor and advocate, she has had a profound impact on student life through her commitment to community building, inclusivity and student well-being.
Madeleine is known for creating welcoming spaces where every student feels seen, valued and connected. Through weekly community dinners, sustainability initiatives, academic and social programming, and her unwavering support of students and colleagues alike, she has fostered some of the strongest and most inclusive communities at Trinity. Her leadership has helped shape new programs, support fellow Dons and Community Advisors, and empower students to become engaged members of the College.
Equally respected by students, peers and staff, Madeleine leads through kindness, integrity and example. Whether advocating for student needs, celebrating the contributions of others, or simply taking the time to make everyone feel welcome, she embodies the very best of Trinity College. Her generosity, dedication and love for this community have left a lasting impact on countless students, making her an exceptionally deserving recipient of this award.
Matthew Kieswetter: Alumni
For more than a decade, Matthew has demonstrated exceptional dedication to Trinity College through his leadership, volunteer service and commitment to strengthening connections across the College community. As a member of the Corporation of Trinity College and a longstanding leader within the Divinity Associates Executive, he has worked tirelessly to engage alumni, students, faculty and friends of the College.
Through innovative outreach initiatives, expanded year-round programming and enhanced alumni communications, Matthew has helped create meaningful opportunities for connection and belonging. His efforts have strengthened relationships across generations of graduates and fostered a more vibrant, connected and engaged Trinity community.
What sets Matthew apart is not only the breadth of his service, but the generosity, warmth and collaborative spirit with which he leads. By creating opportunities for others to participate, reconnect and contribute, he has made a lasting impact on the life of the College. Matthew’s sustained dedication, outstanding leadership and deep commitment to community make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Kay Park: Current Student
Kay has made a remarkable impact on the Trinity College community through her dedication to service, leadership and care for others. As an Orientation Coordinator, Welcome Desk staff member, residence community member, and active participant in student life, she has consistently helped create a welcoming and inclusive environment for students, staff and visitors alike.
Kay is known for her positivity, generosity and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure others feel heard, supported and connected. Whether helping incoming students navigate their transition to university, contributing to campus life or simply taking the time to listen and respond to the needs of others, she leads with kindness and purpose.
What makes Kay especially deserving of this recognition is the lasting impact she has on those around her. Her encouragement, attentiveness and example have inspired others to become leaders themselves, demonstrating that meaningful leadership begins with listening, caring and helping others succeed. Through her dedication to the Trinity community and her ability to make people feel valued and included, Kay truly embodies the spirit of this award.
