The force said Anderson was a role model in interpersonal and leadership skills, provision of assistance to fellow students, team spirit, cooperation and tact. Anderson scored particularly well in leadership, participation, sportsmanship and academics, the four categories that were used to measure eligibility for the award.

Selection for the Commandant's Achievement Trophy was also based on peer assessment. Students in each syndicate participated in a secret ballot process whereby they each nominated a student they felt best exemplified the qualities required of the Commandant's Achievement Trophy.