In 1972, Tom Dabrowski began living at St. Paul’s University College while attending the University of Waterloo to complete his math degree. Tom was a fun and outgoing person who was always building community. He helped to create lasting memories at the college with his peers who then became lifelong friends. After Tom passed in 2014, the Tom Dabrowski Impact Award was established to honour his memory and spirit. The award is given annually to a St. Paul’s student who makes an outstanding contribution to the life of the residence community, leads by example and goes above and beyond to enrich the lives of others.
In 2021, Hanna Meili, a 2B Environmental Resources and Sustainability student was the recipient of the Tom Dabrowski Impact Award. Hanna cares deeply for her St. Paul’s community and works hard to ensure it remains a welcoming place by actively participating in the Student Union and many college events.
“It’s not the walls that make a building, it’s the people within them.” Hanna reflected on her experience.
Hanna lives by the rule that you should treat others the way you want to be treated and is always pleasantly surprised that this attitude is returned. She loves that her community is filled with well-spirited and like-minded peers who help her to feel at peace and inspired to achieve and grow.
I am more than grateful to be able to be the recipient of the Tom Dabrwoski Impact Award. I hope to carry on the legacy that Tom Dabrowski created.
Congratulations, Hanna!