Shelby Fudge recognized with the New and Emerging Professional Award by the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services

Shelby Fudge, a Placement Officer with the Marine Institute’s Office of Career Integrated Learning, has been recognized with the New and Emerging Professional Award by the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS)

Monday, April 20, 2026 By Madeline Meadus

Shelby Fudge, a Placement Officer with the Marine Institute’s Office of Career Integrated Learning, has been recognized with the New and Emerging Professional Award by the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS).

The New and Emerging Professionals Award recognizes leadership, growth, and outstanding potential of an individual working in a professional role in any area of student affairs and services for five years of less.

“I feel truly honoured to have been considered for the award and I deeply appreciate the recommendation,” said Ms. Fudge.

She was presented with the award during an awards ceremony on April 16.

Ms. Fudge has worked at the Marine Institute since 2022—starting her career as a Student Liaison Officer before transitioning into her current role as Placement Officer.

In this role, she helps students navigate placements, build industry connections, and prepare for their future careers in the maritime industry.

“My favourite aspect of my role is building meaningful connections between students, faculty, and employer partners,” she shared.

“I enjoy helping students navigate placements and career opportunities while building their confidence and readiness for the next stage of their journey.”

Exceptional New Professional

Dr. Angie Clarke, Associate Vice-President (Marine Institute) Academic and Student Affairs, is also the President of CACUSS. She said she is extremely proud to see Ms. Fudge recognized with this award.

“Over the last two decades, I have supervised many staff and faculty—ranging from new employees to seasoned professionals. In my experience, Shelby Fudge is one of the most impressive new professionals I have had the pleasure of working with,” she shared.

“Shelby has taken initiative in every role she has been in.”

Consideration for the New and Emerging Professionals Award requires the completion of a nomination form and two letters of support from an individual’s supervisor or colleagues.

Nomination letters were prepared by Bernie Brockerville, Senior Placement Officer, and Georgina White, Assistant Head, School of Ocean Technology.

Ms. Fudge’s supervisor, Mr. Brockerville, emphasized the positive impact she has had as a Placement Officer.

“A hallmark of Shelby’s work has been the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from students, faculty, and employer partners,” he stated.

“Shelby brings empathy and integrity to her work. She understands the importance of placements in shaping students’ academic and professional journeys.”

Marine Institute Mentorship Program

A point of pride for Ms. Fudge is the development of the Marine Institute’s first mentorship program for female and gender-diverse students pursuing marine and ocean careers.

She developed the mentorship program last summer and the group has since flourished—having hosted their first Women in Marine Careers Panel event in March.

In her nomination letter, Ms. White highlights the positive impact the program has had on the community.

“Shelby shows a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, intentionally embedding inclusive practices into programs and policies,”

“This initiative has strengthened access to industry professionals and enhanced students’ sense of belonging and confidence.”

‘An honour and a motivator’

Ms. Fudge says she is especially grateful to those who nominated her for the award.

“I would like to sincerely thank Angie, Bernie, and Georgina for the time, thoughtfulness, and effort they dedicated to writing letters of support and completing the nomination process on my behalf,” she said.

“Their encouragement and confidence in my work mean a great deal to me.”

She called it an “honour and a motivator” to be recognized with this award at this stage in her career.

“This recognition encourages me to continue creating meaningful opportunities for students, building strong partnerships, and growing as a professional.”