Four Fleming College alumni have been selected as nominees for the distinguished Premier's Awards this year.
Founded in 1992, the Premier's Awards are administered by Colleges Ontario, the advocacy voice for Ontario's 24 colleges.
This annual celebration recognizes the significant social and economic contributions that college graduates make on a provincial and global scale. Colleges can nominate alumni in seven categories: Skilled Trades, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Science, Technology and Engineering.
The Fleming College nominees for 2025 are:
Health Care and Community Well-being
Michelle Acorn: Nursing (1987)
Dr. Michelle Acorn, a proud Fleming College Nursing alumna, has charted an inspiring path in healthcare leadership. Currently serving as CEO of the Nurse Practitioners' Association of Ontario (NPAO), she champions over 5,400 Nurse Practitioners, nearly half of all NPs in Canada, advocating for improved access, integration, and innovation in Ontario's healthcare system. Previously, Dr. Acorn made history as the first Chief Nurse of the International Council of Nurses, where she supported 138 national nursing associations and nearly 28 million nurses worldwide. Recognized as one of Canada's top 25 women of influence and top 20 visionary CEOs, Dr. Acorn continues to blend policy leadership with hands-on clinical and teaching practice.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Innovation
Cheryl Dowling: Counselling (2010)
As the founder of The IVF Warrior, one of the world's most recognized fertility platforms, Cheryl Dowling has built a globally trusted digital ecosystem that transforms how fertility care is accessed and understood. Her platform supports millions navigating infertility, IVF, and mental health with empathy, innovation, and evidence-based resources.
An Emmy Award recipient and bestselling author (Unspoken), Cheryl is a trailblazer in digital health, leading advancement at the intersection of technology, science, and patient experience. Her work spans AI-informed tools, platform strategy, and tech-enabled solutions that improve outcomes, expand access, and modernize care systems.
Through advocacy, storytelling, and cross-sector collaboration, Cheryl is redefining what's possible in fertility care, ensuring no one faces this journey alone.
Workforce and Skilled Trades Advancement
Dave Conroy: Sustainable Building and Design (2009)
Dave Conroy is a skilled trades leader and sustainable building advocate who is a proud graduate of Fleming College's Sustainable Building and Design program. In 2015, Dave co-founded The Little Building Company, leveraging the connections and hands-on expertise he gained during his time at Fleming.
Now the sole owner, Dave has grown the company into a respected full-service general contractor based in the Township of Douro-Dummer. Deeply committed to sustainability and local economic development, Dave prioritizes sourcing materials and labour locally. From lumber and cedar to metal roofing and HVAC systems, nearly every aspect of the company's builds supports small businesses and skilled tradespeople throughout the region. His team partners with trusted local trades, such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, strengthening the skilled trades ecosystem in the Kawarthas.
Cultural and Creative Achievement
Tracey Randall: Business Tourism & Transportation (1988)
A graduate of Fleming College's 1988 Tourism and Business program, Tracey Randall is now the Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest, Canada's longest-running free outdoor concert series, entering its 38th season. Since taking the helm in 2012, she has transformed Musicfest into a cornerstone of Peterborough's creative identity, drawing thousands each summer to Del Crary Park and generating over $4.5 million in annual economic impact for the local community. Her commitment to creating space for emerging artists, fostering local pride, and promoting arts accessibility reflects her deep belief in the power of music to connect and inspire communities. Tracey Randall's leadership has left an indelible mark on Ontario's cultural landscape.
The Premier's Award winners will be recognized at a gala event in Toronto on November 24.
To nominate a deserving Fleming graduate for a 2026 Premier's Award, please email alumni@flemingcollege.ca.
