Victoria College Adviser Jade Hazell Receives Jill Matus Award
Photo by Neil Gaikwad
By Leslie Shepherd
Victoria College academic adviser Jade Hazell has received the prestigious Jill Matus Award for Excellence in Student Services, an annual University of Toronto honour recognizing staff whose contributions to student support extend beyond their formal roles.
Hazell’s award citation highlights her “intelligence, creativity and unwavering commitment to equity and student success,” pointing to her work across several areas of the university.
“From work in academic bridging, through accommodated testing and academic integrity casework, to her current role as an academic adviser supporting students who benefit from ongoing support and who face complex challenges, Jade exemplifies both empathy and savvy when she works with students,” the citation reads. “Jade commits wholly to helping students rebound from setback and embrace opportunity, even in the most difficult moments.”
Hazell works closely with students navigating academic and personal challenges, helping them understand university policies while identifying practical paths forward. Her approach combines careful knowledge of institutional processes with a focus on creating supportive, non-judgmental spaces where students can reflect and make informed decisions about their academic futures.
“Jade exemplifies excellence in student services through her deeply student-centred approach, creative problem-solving, and unwavering professionalism,” said Yvette Ali, registrar of Victoria University in the University of Toronto. “Students consistently share that they feel genuinely heard, supported, and empowered through her work. Jade goes well beyond the expectations of her role.”
Hazell was recognized in part for her work co-creating and co-implementing STAR (Skills Towards Academic Recovery), a pilot program launched by Victoria College and University College in 2025 to support students on academic suspension. Developed in partnership with staff from both colleges, STAR is the first initiative of its kind within the Faculty of Arts & Science.
“For many students, suspension can feel like the end of the road,” Hazell said. “STAR shows students that suspension isn’t the end of their academic journey—it’s a chance to pause, reflect and re-engage in a more intentional way.”
The 10-week program combines workshops on study skills, wellness, financial planning and career exploration with one-on-one advising sessions. Students design individualized recovery plans and, after completing the program, continue to access support through an online module. The program also connects participants with peers in similar circumstances.
Early outcomes from the pilot at Victoria College have been encouraging. Participants reported increased self-reflection and a clearer understanding of their academic challenges, and some were able to return to their studies earlier than expected. The program has drawn interest from other divisions in Arts & Science.
The Jill Matus Award for Excellence in Student Services is presented annually to up to two staff members in recognition of outstanding contributions across areas such as advising, registration, admissions, student life, and financial aid. The award includes a monetary prize of up to $1,200 and recognizes specific efforts that have had a measurable, long-term impact on student services at the university.