Pictured Acadia Alumni Award Recipients: Dr. Todd Dow (’16), Ms. Zabrina Whitman, Dr. Alice Cohen, Ms. Kate Bagnell (’26), Mr. Paul Bailey (’75). Not pictured: Mr. Stephen Mak (’89).

It was an unforgettable evening celebrating the incredible Acadia University community at the 2026 Acadia Alumni Awards in Wolfville on April 24, 2026.

Festival Theatre was beautifully transformed into a red-carpet venue, with guests travelling from near and far to attend the event, and to celebrate the very best of Acadia.

Hosted by Alumni Association Board member Payton Wood (’18), alongside Executive Director, Alumni Relations, Oonagh Proudfoot (’93, ’06), the evening brought together alumni, faculty, staff, students, donors and friends.

“On behalf of the Association, we’re pleased to support the celebration of these community contributors. Their commitment and impact reflect the values of the Acadia community, and we’re proud to recognize the difference they’re making” shared Payton.

Throughout the night, we paused to recognize past award recipients, acknowledging the lasting impact of those who have helped shape Acadia, including Ms. Melanie Jackson ('99, '01), Dr. Juan Carlos López, Dr. Carmen O'Neill ('83), Dr. Caroline Cochran, Ms. Olivia Stevenson (’23) and Dr. Blye Frank ('77, ’81).

Chancellor Nancy McCain (’82, ’21 HON) took to the stage to greet guests, noting “This year’s Acadia Alumni recipients remind us of how the university is a place of growth and achievement, striving for a better world. Your contributions impact this campus and the broader community more than you know.”

The following distinctions were awarded during the evening:

Dr. Alice Cohen – Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching

Alice’s commitment to student-centred teaching inspires the next generation of environmental leaders. She creates an inclusive, supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically, connect complex global issues, and grow in confidence. Through her innovative, interdisciplinary approach, she goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels capable of making a meaningful impact.

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Mr. Che Hang (Stephen) Mak (’89) – Isaac Chipman Award for Excellence in Alumni Service

Demonstrating outstanding dedication to alumni service, Stephen has built a vibrant and connected Acadia community across Hong Kong and mainland China. For more than 15 years, he has brought alumni together through meaningful events, mentorship, and global engagement, ensuring the Acadia spirit extends far beyond Wolfville. His leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment continue to strengthen connections and support future generations of Acadia students.

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Ms. Zabrina Whitman – Outstanding University Service Award

An exceptional leader and advocate, Zabrina has been a guiding force in advancing reconciliation and Indigenization on campus and building meaningful bridges between the university and Mi’kmaw communities. Through her work, she has created lasting impact; supporting students, shaping programs, and ensuring Indigenous voices and knowledge are meaningfully and authentically embedded in the life of the university.

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Dr. Todd Dow (’16) – Outstanding GOLD Alumni Award

Todd embodies the Acadia spirit through his excellence in leadership, service, and lifelong commitment to community. He distinguished himself at Acadia as a student leader, athlete, researcher, and volunteer, while earning multiple top honours including Student of the Year and Volunteer of the Year. Since then, he has continued to excel in medicine, earning national recognition, completing a highly competitive plastic surgery residency, and contributing extensively to research and surgical education.

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Ms. Kate Bagnell (’26) – Student of the Year Award

A graduating Business Administration student, Kate exemplifies the Acadia spirit through leadership, initiative, and community impact. She has contributed to high-impact research, supported international exchange students through periods of change, and gained global perspective through study abroad. Kate is a leader who has meaningfully strengthened both the university and the wider community.

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Mr. Paul Bailey (’75) – Distinguished Alumni Award

Paul Bailey is recognized for a lifetime of integrity, leadership, and commitment to giving back. A former varsity hockey captain, he built a distinguished career in sustainable development and community-focused business. He has made a lasting philanthropic impact across healthcare, culture, and education, while remaining deeply connected to Acadia through transformative support, including his ongoing commitment to the S.M.I.L.E. program and mentorship of students.

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A highlight of the program for the evening was the raffle fundraiser for S.M.I.L.E., made possible by Paul Bailey’s (’75) generosity in donating the Toronto Dream Weekend prize package.

The draw for the S.M.I.L.E. raffle prize was won by Dr. Nelson O’Driscoll, with a total of $4,510 raised. This number was matched that evening by the Acadia Alumni Association, bringing the total raised to over $9,000.

The following event sponsors were acknowledged for their financial and in-kind support: TD Insurance; The Associated Alumni of Acadia University; BMO; Chartwells; Industrial Alliance Financial Group; McInnes Cooper; Dexter Construction; Acadia Athletics; Coach Atlantic; Sodexo; Two Birds One Stone and Benjamin Bridge.

President Dr. Jeff Hennessy (’99) offered remarks at the conclusion of the evening: “Our award recipients represent the best of what we do at Acadia and what we’ve always done. Our alumni are the very best, and we are better because of your love and commitment to us.”

For more, please see our photo gallery.