Lori Lowes receives 2015 SWAAC Graduate Student Award of Merit

Congratulations to Lori Lowes, a PhD Candidate in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, on receiving the 2015 Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada (SWAAC) Graduate Student Award of Merit.

The award, which consists of $3,000 and a plaque, was established to recognize women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their university and community while maintaining an exemplary academic record. According to SWAAC, Lowes was the most worthy recipient of the Award, based on her outstanding academic record, teaching, scholarships and community outreach.

Lowes explained this award acknowledges that she has found what she is passionate in and what motivates her as an individual.

“My pursuits in academics, research, education and community engagement have become a great passion of mine, and something that I would have never considered to be award-worthy,” she said. “However, I’ve always been a big believer that the greatest successes will come when you follow your interests and get involved in activities that excite and inspire you.”

Lowes also credits the outstanding individuals who have mentored her throughout her academic and community-based initiatives, and said they have taught her the importance of taking on leadership roles in order to inspire others to achieve a common goal.

“I think that the greatest achievements can only be accomplished if they are spearheaded by an equally great leader,” she said. “In all of my roles I strive to live up to the examples of great leadership and mentorship that I have been privileged enough to have experienced.”

Lowes will be presented with the 2015 SWAAC Graduate Student Award of Merit on May 1 at a Gala Dinner and Awards Banquet in Toronto.