KINGSTON, Ont. (January 18, 2021) - Queen's Athletics & Recreation honours the 2019-20 Academic All-Stars. A total of 426 varsity student-athletes were recognized as Academic All-Stars, having earned at least a 3.5 grade-point average over the past academic year at Queen's. 
  
"Congratulations to the 2019-20 Academic All-Stars. We know the pandemic has impacted your education, athletic and personal lives and as Academic All-Stars this past year you have demonstrated, more than ever, the resiliency and dedication of  Gaels student-athletes," said Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs Ann Tierney. "We have a record high number of Academic All Stars, representing more than 42% of Queen's student-athletes and we continue to be in the Top Five schools in the county for the number of All Stars."

"As a university we are proud of our academic and athletic tradition and I am honoured to celebrate this great accomplishment. The Academic All-Star award also points to a lifestyle characterized by focus, commitment, discipline, passion, and teamwork in academics and athletics," said Mark Green, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic). "I would like to recognize and thank our faculties and departments, coaches, academic advisors, Student Wellness Services staff, and the Athletics & Recreation staff for their leadership in creating an inspiring and supportive learning environment for our student-athletes."

The Nixon Academic Leadership Award was given out to the male and female athletes from both the varsity teams and clubs who have exemplified achievement in academics, community service and fair play in their sport. This year's recipients of the Nixon Award are Mary Fay (Curling | Arts & Science), Ian McClean (Ultimate | Computing), McKinley Hunt (Rugby | Education) and Connor King (Rugby | Arts & Science). These awards are named in honour of Gord and Janet Nixon, two extraordinary benefactors to Athletics & Recreation.

Over 40 per cent of Queen's student-athletes were named Academic All-Stars this year. The varsity clubs with the highest GPAs were Women's Ultimate and Triathlon, while the highest GPAs from varsity teams were from women's basketball and women's hockey.

A full list of Queen's Academic All-Stars can be found here.