Victoria University Student Shane Joy Receives U of T Moss Scholarship

^{Shane Joy, recipient of the 2025 John H. Moss Scholarship, is the first in his family to attend university.}

By Tina Adamopoulos 

Victoria University student Shane Joy has received the 2025 John H. Moss Scholarship, one of the University of Toronto’s oldest awards recognizing student excellence.

The $20,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating student from the U of T Faculty of Arts & Science pursuing a second degree. It recognizes exceptional academic achievements and significant involvement in extracurricular activities. The award was established in 1921 through a partnership between the university and the University of Toronto Alumni Association.

For Joy, receiving the scholarship holds special meaning as he is the first person in his family to attend university. 

“This opportunity felt inconceivable as a first-generation student,” said Joy, a fifth-year student studying history, international relations and Near and Middle Eastern studies. “I feel proud to be recognized for community-building at the University of Toronto and Victoria College.”

Joy aims to leverage data-based approaches in public policy to address critical issues in Canada and the United States, focusing on Indigenous relations and reconciliation, housing and affordability. His interest in history is closely tied to his goal of a career in public service.

“To contribute to solutions for issues, you need to understand the history behind the challenges that affect the communities you want to help,” Joy said.

With the goal of getting more youth involved in politics, Joy served as president of the University of Toronto Policython, an event designed to educate and encourage students interested in careers in policy, government and diplomacy.

Joy considers his time as president of the Victoria University Students’ Administrative Council one of his most valuable experiences. He collaborated with Victoria University’s administrative team to implement initiatives addressing equity, sustainability and mental health for 4,000 students, including the Eat After Eight program, which redistributed leftover food from Burwash Dining Hall to students.

In February, Joy was one of two Victoria College students selected as national finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University. He credits University President Rhonda McEwen, Dean Kelley Castle and Assistant Professor Jonathan Hamilton-Diabo as key mentors. 

He also recognizes the strong sense of community on campus.

“What makes Vic such a distinct place is the strong ties between students across years to support their peers to develop their capacities as leaders of tomorrow,” Joy said.

Academic scholarships and awards are key to supporting student success. Discover more about the opportunities available to Victoria College students and how you can apply for these prestigious awards to help you achieve your academic goals. Learn more here.