Three Education Alumni Recognized in the 2025 Sport BC Athlete of the Year Awards
The UBC Faculty of Education proudly celebrates these remarkable alumni who were recognized at the 2025 Sport BC Athlete of the Year Awards for their exceptional achievements and contributions to sport, education, and community. Their dedication and leadership exemplify the spirit of excellence and service that defines UBC Education alumni.
Leslie Buchanan, BA’88, BEd’92, received the Daryl Thompson Lifetime Achievement Award—one of the event’s highest honors. A former UBC track and field athlete, Buchanan has been a trailblazer in the triathlon community, serving as a coach, referee, and Olympic technical delegate. Her decades-long dedication to the sport has helped shape triathlon provincially and nationally. Beyond sport, Buchanan also impacted education through her work as an English teacher in West Vancouver.
Diane Silzer, Dip (Ed)’08, was named Master Athlete of the Year, recognized for her outstanding achievements in short track speed skating. In 2024, Silzer set world records in four distances, exemplifying excellence in masters athletics and serving as a role model for lifelong athletic achievement.
Malindi Elmore, BEd’14, was recognized with the KidSport Community Champion Award for her outstanding dedication to sport equity and youth access. The three-time Olympian raised over $26,000 for KidSport through a community-driven campaign that included a film screening, online auction, and donations. Her efforts will help fund a season of sport for approximately 90 children, reflecting her enduring commitment to giving back through sport.
Held on March 6, 2025, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, the 57th annual awards ceremony brought together BC’s most accomplished athletes, coaches, and contributors. The recognition of Buchanan, Silzer and Elmore underscores the ongoing influence of UBC Education alumni in shaping sport, education, and community leadership across the province.
