Georgian College celebrated partners, alumni, and employees at its annual Awards of Distinction ceremony on April 30, 2026, to recognize those who have made significant contributions to student success and the college community.
The awards, which serve as the institution’s highest honour, highlighted individuals and organizations across the college’s seven campuses, including the Owen Sound Campus located at 1450 8th St. E. This campus provides essential local training through facilities such as the Centre for Marine Training and Research, the Marine Emergency Duties Centre, and a high-fidelity nursing simulation lab.
This year, the Community Partner Award was presented to belairdirect and WEINS Auto Group. The college noted that belairdirect has been instrumental in supporting alumni initiatives, sponsoring campus events, and funding student scholarships, which has helped reduce financial barriers for many students.
In the alumni categories, Kent Smith was honoured with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Progress and Achievement. A graduate of the college’s hospitality programs, Smith has built a career spanning more than three decades in the industry. Additionally, Addison Wallwin and Roxann Whittingham received the Distinguished Alumni Award in the Changemaker category for their work in driving innovation and creating positive social change.
The ceremony was presided over by Kimberley Greenwood, Chair of the college’s Board of Governors. Kevin Weaver, who began his role as the college’s sixth President and CEO in 2022, emphasized that the contributions of these recipients are vital to the institution’s ongoing commitment to workforce readiness and student achievement.
