Georgian College came together April 30 to celebrate an impressive group of partners, alumni and employees at its annual Awards of Distinction, recognizing those shaping the college and strengthening the communities it serves.
Presented by Georgian's Board of Governors, the awards honour individuals and teams whose inspiring leadership, generosity and innovative approaches create opportunity for students.
This year's recipients reflect what makes Georgian strong:meaningful partnerships, engaged alumni and employees committed to student success.
Community Partner Award: belairdirect and WEINS Auto Group
The Community Partner Award recognizes those who make a significant contribution to Georgian while reflecting the college's values and strategic priorities.
belairdirect has built a strong and lasting connection with Georgian through its support of alumni initiatives, sponsorship of campus events, and investing in student scholarships that have helped remove financial barriers and expand access to postsecondary education.
WEINS Auto Group plays an active role in preparing career-ready graduates. Through corporate training, work-integrated learning opportunities, such as co-op placements, and ongoing engagement with students, the organization helps ensure Georgian's programming reflects current and future industry needs.
Distinguished Alumni Award: Progress and Achievement: Kent Smith
The Distinguished Alumni Award includes two categories: Progress and Achievement, and Changemaker. The Progress and Achievement category recognizes graduates who've distinguished themselves professionally and brought honour to the college.
Kent Smith, a graduate of Georgian's Hotel and Resort Administration/Operations program (class of 1987 and 1998), has built a respected career in the hospitality industry over more than three decades. As co-owner of Michael & Marion's, The Side Door and The Loft @89, alongside fellow alumna Krista Smith (class of 1991), he has helped create community-focused spaces known for exceptional quality and service.
His connection to Georgian continues through his engagement as a former instructor, keynote speaker and donor. Through the Kent and Krista Smith Alumni Fund, the couple has established a permanent endowment to support students in financial need.
Distinguished Alumni Award: Changemaker: Addison Wallwin and Roxann Whittingham
The Changemaker category celebrates alumni who are creating positive social change and driving innovation.
Addison Wallwin (class of 2015 and 2019), a graduate of Georgian's Pre-health Sciences and Business Administration - Accounting programs, and Controller at Wallwin Electric, brings together professional expertise and a deep commitment to community. She has been instrumental as a volunteer co-chair of Georgian's signature fundraising events, helping to raise an incredible $1.5 million in support for students facing financial barriers - opening doors and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Roxann Whittingham (class of 2019 and 2020), graduate of Georgian's Child and Youth Care and Teaching and Training Adults programs, is an author, entrepreneur, graduation coach and community builder. Rox of Hope Inc., (formerly BIPOC Graduation Support Network) which she founded, builds bridges for educational equity - transforming potential into achievement, one student at a time. She also established the Black Education Empowerment Fund (B.E.E.F.) - a $1,000 annual scholarship awarded to Black students studying full-time at Georgian.
Recognizing innovation and excellence across Team Georgian
In addition to recognizing partners and alumni, Georgian celebrated employees with seven additional awards focused on an entrepreneurial mindset, creative collaboration and service excellence.
Quotes:
"These recipients reflect the heart of Georgian, with a deep commitment to student success and to strengthening the communities we serve. Through their leadership, generosity and willingness to give back, they're creating opportunities that extend well beyond our campuses. It's an honour to recognize their impact."
- Kimberley Greenwood, Chair, Georgian's Board of Governors
"Each of this year's recipients demonstrates what's possible when talent, commitment and community come together. Whether through industry partnerships, innovative approaches in their work, or giving back, they're helping open doors for our students and preparing them for meaningful careers. Their contributions are an important part of how Georgian continues to support and empower learners to ensure they're future ready and meet evolving workforce needs across our regions."
- Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College
For more information
One Georgian Drive
Barrie Ontario
Canada L4M 3X9
www.georgiancollege.ca
