College of Arts Graduate Recognized by U of G for her Academic Achievements and Community Involvement

Grace Nelson, recent graduate of the Culture and Technology Studies (CTS) and History programs in the College of Arts at the University of Guelph, had a decidedly well-rounded undergraduate student experience. An impressive combination of academic achievements, dedication to self-betterment and participation in the greater U of G community led to her nomination for the W.C. Winegard Medal. This prestigious award recognizes the work of undergraduate students who are highly dedicated to their studies and to U of G. In acknowledgement of her nomination for the W.C. Winegard Medal, Nelson received the David Murray Medal in Arts at the 2026 College of Arts Convocation Awards Ceremony that took place earlier this month.

Exuding ardency and a drive for community engagement, Nelson shares, “everything I have done over the past four years was not in expectation of awards, but rather me trying to make the most out of undergraduate experience.”

Pursuing Passion Without Sacrifice

U of G offered Nelson a unique opportunity to merge her love of technology with the arts and pursue a double major in CTS and History. Through choosing these programs, she was able to experience the best of both worlds as she navigated potential career paths and discovered where her interests lay.

After four years, Nelson reflected that she was able to frequently combine her learning in these two programs through her projects and research. Her unique approach and perspective allowed her to garner scholarships, editorial and public speaking experience, opportunities to contribute to panel discussions, student society positions and co-op placements that helped her stand out amongst the undergraduate student population.

Looking Beyond the Grades

A testament to her academic strength, Nelson is also a recipient of the Ted Morwick Scholarship, which acknowledges the achievements of students with exceptionally high admission averages in the College of Arts. Nelson, however, also greatly values all that she has accomplished beyond her courses. Her classroom learning led to greater opportunities, including working as a research assistant to two professors in the Department of History and getting to speak about her research as a Canadian Society for Digital Humanities panelist.

A Personal Approach to Learning

Nelson describes the History program as “welcoming,” sharing that professors and students took the time to engage with one another. “I do truly think it is the people in the College of Arts that most positively affected my education, at every level,” she recalls. A friendly, professional environment where she felt comfortable seeking out opportunities helped Nelson find different ways to get involved in the University community offerings beyond the classroom setting. In fact, it was a fellow student who encouraged her to get involved in the History Society at U of G, which she later became president of. This responsibility provided Nelson with opportunities to work closely with many faculty members from the Department of History including Dr. Linda Mahood, Dr. Matthew Hayday, Dr. Deirdre McCorkindale and Dr. Cathryn Spence. Through these connections, and by witnessing the community of History students grow and bond over common interests, Nelson has been able to sustain her own love of the program.

Cultivating Community Outside of Academia

A key component of the W.C. Winegard Medal nominee criteria is contributing to the wider U of G community, which has certainly been a priority for Nelson during her time at the University. As president of the History Society, Nelson inspired students to take time outside of their studies to engage with their education in more hands-on ways. During her time at U of G, she also coordinated fundraising and organized events that reached over 200 students, creating spaces for people with similar professional goals to get to know each other.

In September, Nelson plans to return to U of G as a History MA student under the supervision of Dr. Alex Souchen and Dr. Kim Martin, associate professors in the Department of History in the College of Arts. Reflecting on her past and future at U of G, human connection is what stands out to Nelson. “While I am taking away a wonderful education through my courses with me into my MA and beyond, it is the people and the memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”