Graduation Awards
Below are the awards that will be presented to graduating students at the June ceremony.
Character Matters!
Presented to students who best exemplify the Board’s ten character attributes:
Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Perseverance, Integrity, Responsibility, Empathy, Initiative, Courage and
Optimism
Community Contribution Award
Awarded for exceptional contributions to community improvement
D. Foley Award for Activism
Presented to student leaders for their commitment in building awareness of social and human rights
causes throughout theirs at Thornhill S.S.
Derwin Foley was a former History Teacher at Thornhill Secondary School
Gay Straight Alliance “Rainbow” Award
Presented to a student who has made an outstanding effort to support and celebrate the Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Tansgender and Queer community
Governor General’s Medal
Awarded for academic excellence at the high school level
Jack Webber Scholarship
Awarded to a Business Studies Student who has been on the honour roll for the last three years and
who has made significant contributions to school life.
James Graham Award
Presented to a student who has been accepted into theatre studies or communication arts at an
accredited Canadian university or college.
James Graham was a former Drama Teacher at Thornhill Secondary School
Kertland Memorial Scholarship
Awarded to a Thornhill resident who has contributed significantly to school life, has shown excellent
personal development throughout high school, and modelled good citizenship and a willingness to help
and serve others
This scholarship is affiliated with the Lions Club of Thornhill
Lawrence Brinder Memorial Award for Accounting
Presented to the student with the highest mark in Grade 12 Accounting
Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Award
For exemplary community contribution through volunteer activity.
Marilyn Short Excellence Award
Presented for outstanding musicianship and consistent contribution to musical activities, ensemble
participation, and academic excellence.
Marilyn Short was a former Music Teacher at Thornhill Secondary School
Markham District Energy Sustainability Bursary
Presented to a student who demonstrates a passion for and commitment to the environment in their
volunteer time.
Principal’s Award
Conferred for exemplary leadership in the student’s graduating year.
Ruth Hansford Award
Presented to a female student for outstanding service to school athletics
School Council Graduation Awards
Presented for exceptional volunteer and citizenship records at school
Specialist High Skills Major
Awarded for excellence in academic achievement, outstanding employability skills and insight into the
economic sector of Health and Wellness or Sports
Stephen Luther Memorial Scholarship
Awarded to students who will be studying in a university in the fall of their graduation year. They will
have high scholastic achievement and have made significant contribution to life at Thornhill S.S.
Stephen Luther was a former English Teacher at TSS
Student Trustee Award for Character
Presented to a student who exemplifies the character values of the York Region District School Board
and is a role model to his or her peers
Thornhill Secondary School 50th Anniversary Award
Given to students who have participated in extra-curricular activities at school, have taken on leadership
responsibilities, and have been model citizens.
Thornhill Secondary School OSSTF Branch Award
Presented for community involvement and social awareness
Tiger Recognition Scholarship
Awarded to students who actively contributed to the spirit of the school.
TSS Alumni Association “Next Step” Bursary
Presented to an all-around student will be attending a post-secondary institution in the fall of their
graduating year.
University of Toronto National Book Award
Presented to a graduating student for superior performance, original and creative thought and
exceptional achievement in a broad context
York Region District School Board Director’s Achievement Award
Presented for educational excellence