MacEwan University welcomes John Cameron, Chairman of Keller Construction Ltd., as the university's 37th Allard Chair in Business. This honorary position is an esteemed award from MacEwan that recognizes a distinguished business and community leader and serves as a mentor and role model to students.
"John has an exemplary record of giving back to the community in so many ways," says Dr. Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor. "He is a respected leader in Edmonton's arts community and the head of a construction company that has projects across the city, the province and western Canada."
Individuals selected for the Allard Chair in Business possess exemplary business acumen, demonstrate remarkable leadership skills and have made significant contributions to the community. As part of the Chair in Business initiative, students and faculty members will have the opportunity to meet with Cameron during classroom visits, lectures and special events where he will share his experiences and the insights he has gained throughout his career.
Past Allard Chairs include leaders such as: Kristina Botelho, Cam Naqvi, Bill Comrie, Simon O'Byrne, Teresa Spinelli, Irv Kipnes, and Naseem Bashir. Each Chair is an exceptional member of the Edmonton community and has brought something unique and personal to MacEwan.
About John Cameron
Under John Cameron's leadership, Keller Construction Ltd. has made a lasting impact on the landscape of western Canada. From smaller-scale projects including visitor centres, grocery stores, restaurants and medical clinics to major housing developments, office buildings and industrial complexes, the firm has built an impressive legacy since the 1980s when John started working at his family's business and subsequently, purchased the company from his father.
Cameron's leadership style is a mixture of motivation, inspiration and positivity. He encourages his team to get involved in their community, become stewards for change and make a difference in the lives of others.
Cameron is also relentless when it comes to getting involved in his passion for contributing to his community, and encouraging others to do the same.
The John Cameron Changing Lives Foundation helped lead to the return of Edmonton's Singing Christmas Tree. The proceeds from the popular holiday event are donated to a variety of Edmonton charities.
Cameron's foundation also produces CRESCENDO, an ongoing series of music and storytelling performances that includes a full orchestra, a 120-member choir and a variety of Alberta vocalists. In addition to entertaining audiences, the events share the message of the importance of breaking the stigma attached to mental health issues. The lives of thousands of Albertans have been improved thanks to the efforts of CRESCENDO and its meaningful partnerships with the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, the Mental Health Foundation, Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary and the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton.
Cameron has also served on many boards including the CASA Foundation, the Canadian Mental Health Association - Edmonton Region, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.
"At MacEwan, our goal is to put our students on a strong path towards success in both life and career," says Dr. Trimbee. "I am very excited that our students will benefit from John Cameron's expertise and experience as a business and community leader."
