Student Leaders Honoured at 2026 Crescam Serviendo Awards
Top (left to right): Landon See, Zachary Xerri, Mina Sun and Charlize Marshall. Bottom (left to right): Kate Mochina, Ava Sales, Muskaan Aggarwal and Ashleigh Chu Cheong. (Photo by Dewey Chang)
Victoria University is recognizing student leadership rooted in service through its annual Crescam Serviendo Awards, celebrating those who choose to make a meaningful impact on their community.
Derived from the College’s motto, “Crescam serviendo” — “I will grow through service” the awards highlight a defining principle of the Victoria experience: leadership is a choice. At Vic U, students are not only offered opportunities to lead across campus life but are also supported in developing as leaders guided by purpose, responsibility and a commitment to others.
The Crescam Serviendo Awards recognize students who embody that commitment. Whether through visible leadership roles or quieter, consistent contributions, recipients are those who step forward to strengthen community, foster belonging and create positive change.
“The Crescam Awards are always one of my favourite celebrations of the year because they shine a light on something that makes Victoria University so special: students who choose to serve,” said Dr. Rhonda N. McEwen, President and Vice-Chancellor.
That spirit was evident this year, with 49 nominations representing 37 student leaders. The celebration also marked the introduction of the Community Engagement and Leadership Certificate, awarded to 65 students in its inaugural year. The certificate recognizes the breadth of student contributions to building a more connected and supportive campus.
Together, the awards and certificates reflect Victoria University's broader commitment to cultivating leadership that extends beyond campus, encouraging students to ask not only how they can lead, but how they can contribute to a better world.
The 2026 Crescam Serviendo Award recipients are:
Ashleigh Chu Cheong is a former VUSAC member, co-founder of the Vic Mahjong Society and a Transition Mentor. Nominators described her as someone who stands out as deeply supportive, caring and committed to the well-being of those around her.
Ava Sales has contributed as a Transition Mentor and Annesley Hall Building President. Nominators shared that her hard work has made the student experience more vibrant, connected and uplifting.
Charlize Marshall has been actively involved with the Vic Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, served as President of BLVCK Vic and volunteered with Caffiends. Nominators highlighted her consistent dedication to inspiring and advocating for incoming students.
Kate Mochina has taken on numerous leadership roles, including former VUSAC member, Orientation Leader, Orientation Executive, Orientation Co-Chair, Residence Don and Victoriad Editor-in-Chief. Nominators noted that the question is not what she has done for Victoria College, but what she has not done.
Landon See has served as a Commuter Don, Residence Don, Senior Residence Don and Vic One Mentor. Nominators described him as an outstanding community builder.
Mina Sun has contributed as a Transition Mentor, Senior Transition Mentor and Cat’s Eye Volunteer. Nominators shared that she exemplifies what it means to be a Vic student: kind, caring and community-oriented.
Muskaan Aggarwal is a former VUSAC executive, Residence Don and Floor President. Nominators emphasized her exceptional service and the lasting impact she has made on the Victoria College community.
Zachary Xerri has been involved as a Transition Mentor, Senior Transition Mentor, WUSC Vice President and co-founder of the Victoria College Bingo Society. Nominators noted his commitment to reducing barriers to participation and helping students feel connected to Victoria College.