Are you a U of G grad who's hitting your stride?
Gryphons on the Rise is a new program celebrating early-career alumni making their mark.
Gryphons on the Rise is a University of Guelph award celebrating five recent graduates—within 10 years of Convocation—who are hitting their stride and making their mark. Whether they’re leading change, building something new, advancing their field or strengthening their community, this award celebrates the momentum happening across our alumni community.
Selection and Eligibility
- Open to all University of Guelph graduates
- Apply yourself, or nominate a fellow Gryphon—great stories deserve to be seen
- Past recipients aren’t eligible for a duplicate award, but may qualify for other University of Guelph Alumni Association (UGAA) awards
- All nominations and applications are kept confidential
Applications and nominations closed August 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Check back June 1, 2027 for the next opportunity to apply.
2026 Gyrphons on the Rise Recipients
![Damian Sandhu-Franceschi smiling]()
Damian Sandhu-FranceschiA graduate of the University of Guelph's School of Computer Science, Damian has quickly established himself as a leader in technology and innovation.
![Jessica Foest]()
Jessica FoestA 2021 graduate of the University of Guelph's Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics, Jessica is emerging as a leader in wealth management and financial education.
![Shannon Thom]()
Shannon ThomA two-time graduate of the University of Guelph, earning a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences and a Master of Public Health, Shannon is a public health leader dedicated to translating evidence into action and improving health outcomes for Canadians.
![Caeli Richardson]()
Caeli RichardsonA proud two-time graduate of the University of Guelph, Dr. Caeli has built an international reputation as a leader in sustainable agriculture and animal genetics.
![Erin Fetterly]()
Erin FetterlyA 2016 graduate of the University of Guelph's History program, Erin is an author, historian, and PhD candidate at Birkbeck, University of London whose work shines a light on the overlooked stories of women throughout history.
Award Recognition
Each recipient will receive a $1,000 School of Continuing Studies scholarship to support their continued learning, recognition through a Convocation video feature, and the opportunity to share their experience with graduating students in a virtual fireside chat.
