The 2025 Hodan Nalayeh Graduation Awards applications are now closed.
Award winners will be announced at the Graduation Ceremony in June.
Any student who is graduating this year is eligible to apply for an award.
There are several different awards that are available to you, and the criteria for each are different. Please click on the individual awards listed below to see the criteria for each award. If you wish to apply for an award, please submit your application via the Hodan Nalayeh Graduation Awards Submission Form by 1:59 pm on Friday, May 2, 2025.
List of Awards
The Alliance of Educators for Black Students Award recognizes Black students for achievement in academics, arts, school involvement and athletics.
The Black Students Association Award is given for leadership in the Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School Black Students' Association, and in the school community.
The City of Vaughan Proficiency Award is given to a graduating student who has attained a high academic average.
The Director’s Achievement Award will be given to three graduating students who have made significant accomplishments in high school.
The Dr. Naxakis Science Scholarship Award is awarded to a Grade 12 student(s) who demonstrates outstanding achievement in science (including Grade 12 Chemistry) and plan on pursuing a post-secondary education in the area of chemistry/science (chemistry is preferred).
The Hodan Nalayeh Community Spirit Award is given to a student who has demonstrated promoting school spirit in either clubs and committees or whole school events.
The Hodan Nalayeh Perseverance/Resiliency Award is given to a graduating student planning to enter post-secondary education in the fall. This student has strived to overcome personal or academic obstacles with drive and ambition. Furthermore, this student demonstrates initiative, perseverance and an optimistic outlook.
The Hodan Nalayeh School Impact Award is presented to a graduate who shows a commitment to leadership, athletics, academics, and character within the school community.
The Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Award will be given to a graduating student who shows exemplary community contribution or outstanding achievement through volunteer activity.
The OSSTF Award is presented to a graduating student who has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, lifelong learning, and made a positive contribution to the school and their community.
The Student Trustee Award for Character is given to a student who models an optimistic attitude and positive character attributes, and is also a very respectful, responsible and engaged citizen. This student also exhibits purpose and motivation, and demonstrates self-discipline and personal growth. Furthermore, this student is a life-long learner and role model who inspires others by striving for genuine happiness.
The Tamil Student Award of Excellence is given to a student who has demonstrated character values of the YRDSB (respect, responsibility, honesty, empathy, fairness, initiative, perseverance, integrity, courage, optimism) and is a role model for their peers.
The YRDSB Dual Credit Scholarship and Award is given to a graduating student who has successfully completed the YRDSB Dual Credit program.
The YRDSB OYAP Scholarship Award is given to a graduating student who has successfully completed a cooperative education placement in an apprenticeable trade.
The YRDSB SHSM Scholarship and Award is given to a graduating student who has successfully completed the YRDSB SHSM program.