Lee Hong

BA, MEd

For more than 20 years, Lee Hong has helped international students excel at The University of Winnipeg.

In her work as an academic advisor with International, Immigrant, and Refugee Student Services (IIRSS), Hong is known for her calm, quiet demeanor and student-first attitude. While there are now three academic advisors in IIRSS, Hong was the only one for many years, serving 13 per cent of the University’s student population.

She has worked closely with incoming students from more than 70 countries, and her personalized advice makes students feel more confident in their studies and in their choice of UWinnipeg.

Hong’s dedication to student success is second to none. From visiting 15 Chinese cities in 20 days on a recruitment trip, to volunteering as an usher at Convocation, she’s consistently gone above and beyond throughout her career.

When the pandemic arrived, she quickly learned new technologies and helped students navigate the online registration system and travel restrictions.

“Lee displayed an extraordinary ability to connect with students despite cultural differences and language barriers,” a former supervisor said. “Her calm, patient, and poised manner gave international students an anchor here on campus, and in Canada.”

In the office, Hong is the epitome of team spirit, offering to help colleagues whenever she can. She always goes the extra mile to make sure her team feels motivated and supported.

For always leading by example with kindness, compassion, and humanity, The University of Winnipeg is proud to award Lee Hong with the Stars of Spence Street Prize.