From changemakers to student champions, Georgian College's Board of Governors recognized an exceptional group of employees, alumni and community partners during the annual Awards of Distinction on April 15. The awards are considered the college's highest honour and recognize those who exemplify excellence.
BMO received a Community Partner Award at the Georgian College Board of Governors Awards of Distinction. From left: Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian; Gillian Vincent, BMO Private Wealth; Aaron Haberman, Senior Relationship Manager at BMO; Melanie Cook, Vice President Commercial Banking at BMO; Michele Peer Meng, BMO Branch Manager; and Steve Lowe, Chair of Georgian's Board of Governors.
"These dedicated alumni, community partners and employees have made a profound impact on our students, the college and our campus communities and have helped to deliver on a truly unrivaled Georgian experience," said Steve Lowe, Chair, Georgian's Board of Governors. "We're proud to recognize their contributions and celebrate their impressive achievements."
Meet some of this year's recipients:
Community Partner Award: Bank of Montreal (BMO) and Grey County
The Community Partner Award recognizes noteworthy partners in community or industry who've made a significant contribution to Georgian in support of its strategic priorities and in a way that reflects the college's values.
- BMO has played a pivotal role in removing financial barriers for students and increasing access to postsecondary education as a longstanding and highly engaged partner. Among many contributions, BMO has been the presenting sponsor of the college's signature events, including the Georgian gala and Georgian Golf Classic since 2020, and consistently been part of student life events, volunteer committees, and career fairs.
- Grey County has been one of Georgian's most critical community partners over the past decade, supporting the college's strategic priorities, generously investing in the student experience and advocating for the college at regional and provincial levels. The county has driven transformative growth, particularly in rural education and workforce development, and made notable investments in marine and nursing education.
Grey County also received a Community Partner Award. From left: Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian; Brian Milne, Deputy Warden of Grey County; Kim Wingrove, Chief Administrative Officer of Grey County; and Steve Lowe, Chair of Georgian's Board of Governors.
Distinguished Alumni Award - Progress and Achievement category: Andrew Ojamae
The Progress and Achievement category is awarded to a graduate who has made significant contributions in their field and whose endeavors have distinguished them professionally or in the community and brought honour to the college.
- Andrew Ojamae is President and CEO of AutoIQ Dealer Group and alumnus of Georgian's Business Administration - Automotive Marketing (class of 2001). As a recognized leader in the automotive industry, he has contributed to enhancing student success at Georgian, including as a speaker, curriculum advisor and by expanding AutoIQ's co-operative education program to ensure graduates have the work-integrated experience and learning opportunities needed to excel.
Distinguished Alumni Award - Changemaker category: Shakir Barmare
The Changemaker category is awarded to a graduate who illustrates passion and purpose. They're working or volunteering to create social change and drive innovation in a rapidly changing world. This award celebrates alumni tackling society's challenges head-on and bringing honour to the college.
- Shakir Barmare is President of the Barrie Indian Association, Managing Director of Beyond Giving Inc., and alumnus of Georgian's Business program (class of 2010). He actively champions and cultivates a thriving community built on inclusivity, mutual respect, and social harmony, inspiring others to embrace diversity and work collectively toward a more unified and peaceful Barrie.
Andrew Ojamae, pictured with Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian, left, and Steve Lowe, Chair of Georgian's Board of Governors, is the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award - Progress and Achievement category. Not pictured: Shakir Barmare, who was unable to attend the ceremony, is the President of the Barrie Indian Association and another recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award.
"Each recipient, along with this year's incredible nominees, is exceptional in their dedication to Georgian, our students and our campus communities. I'm honoured to celebrate this remarkable group of people and partners who lead with innovation and heart and am deeply grateful for their continued engagement with the college and our students," said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian.
Seven additional awards were handed out to current and former employees - an Entrepreneurial Award, Team Award, three Awards of Excellence and two Emerita/Emeritus awards.
For more information
One Georgian Drive
Barrie Ontario
Canada L4M 3X9
www.georgiancollege.ca
