UOIT Communication student recognized for academic and athletic achievements

UOIT Ridgebacks hockey and tennis player Vanessa Johnstone has been named an Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Woman of Influence in honour of her success in her field of study (Communication) and sports of choice.

“It’s such an honour to be recognized by the OUA,” said Johnstone. “Through their recognition, students are encouraged to succeed in sport and in life and be an outstanding member of their university and community.”

During her five years at UOIT, Johnstone has worked hard in order to balance both school and sports, as well as volunteer in her community. Originally from Niagara Falls, Ontario, she was UOIT’s first two-sport athlete as a member of the women’s hockey team and the tennis program. In 2012, Johnstone was named the Ridgebacks women’s hockey leadership award winner and also played in this year’s OUA tennis championship. When she wasn’t scoring goals on the ice, she also spent time attending junior girls’ hockey practices to help them improve their skills.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Johnstone has excelled in her studies. This year she was a marketing plan designer for a UOIT Capstone project in support of UOIT’s Diversity in Leadership program. She also finished her last semester in her program with the highest grade point average on her team.

The 2013 honours degree graduate plans to enter teacher’s college in the fall.

• Full UOIT Ridgebacks website profile of Vanessa Johnstone

Previous UOIT recipients of the OUA Woman of Influence award include: Christie Attwood (rowing), Shannon Galea (rowing and squash), Rikki Palmateer (hockey), Chrissy Tereshyn (hockey) and Jessica Bosse (rowing).