Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award

The Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award is the highest honour presented by the Queen’s University Alumni Association. Presented annually to an alumnus/alumna who has demonstrated the high ideals imparted by a Queen’s University education through significant lifetime contributions to one or more of the following: the arts or sciences; public service; leadership in business, industry or a profession; community, charitable or volunteer work.

In 2022 the QUAA renamed this award from the Alumni Achievement Award. The Queen's University Alumni Association (QUAA) respectfully acknowledges the past recipients of the Alumni Achievement Award as the terms of the award remain unchanged.

Award eligibility and criteria

Candidates should be:

  • A Queen’s alumnus/alumna
  • Someone who has accomplished a lifetime of contributions and achievement in one or more of the following: the arts or sciences; public service; leadership in business, industry, or a profession; community, charitable, or volunteer work
  • A contributor to society on a regional, national or international level
  • Recognized within her/his community or field as a leader
  • An inspiration to the Queen’s community

2025 Recipient

David McDowell

  • Artsci/PHE’86, Ed’87

photo of David McDowell, clapping hands. Wearing a blue cap and pink sweatshirt. Individuals in background wearing pink and yellow

Dave studied physical education and education at Queen’s and played varsity soccer throughout his time as a student.  

Since 1988, he has been the head coach of Queen’s women’s soccer team. Over that time, Dave has become one of the most decorated coaches in the university’s history, receiving two CIS/U SPORTS Coach of the Year awards and seven OUA Coach of the Year awards. He has also guided the Gaels to three national championships and six conference championships. His teams have advanced to the national championships 15 times and have never had a losing season or missed the conference playoffs.      

Dave says he feels fortunate to have coached and worked with so many fantastic people through the years, including over 500 student athletes. Almost 40 years after becoming head coach, he says the role has remained a constant passion, filling his daily life with direction and joy.