The Lambton College Alumni Association has nominated Don Richardson, Nicole Paquette, and Garrett VanDusen as possible recipients of this year's Colleges Ontario Premier’s Awards.
A ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 27 in Toronto.
Each college in the province selects nominees based on their ongoing contributions within their fields and communities.
“Lambton College is always proud to celebrate the impact our alumni have in their chosen professions,” said Lambton College President and CEO Rob Kardas. “In addition to career success, this year’s nominees have demonstrated a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, dedicating their time and resources to creating meaningful change in the communities they serve. They have set an extraordinary example for our current students, and they are outstanding ambassadors of our College. My congratulations to all of them on receiving this prestigious nomination.”
The Premier’s Awards recognize one winner across seven categories: apprenticeship, business, community services, creative arts and design, health sciences, technology, and an award for a recent graduate.
Richardson has been nominated in the business category. As an executive at Three Fires Group Inc., Richardson has been a strong advocate for improved telecommunication and energy resources for First Nations communities. Lambton College said his dedicated work over the years has contributed to the success of Indigenous students in remote communities and enhanced opportunities for telemedicine.
Paquette has been nominated in the community services category. She is known in the community as the co-founder of Noelle's Gift to Children, a non-profit dedicated to supporting marginalized children by providing nutrition, clothing, and educational equipment. Since 2013, Noelle's Gift has raised over $3.3 million which has helped support over 15,000 children.
VanDusen, who is a film producer, has been nominated in the creative arts and design category. As an advocate for LGBTQ and BIPOC communities, VanDusen has worked to create a more inclusive space for minority groups working within the arts. The college said VanDusen has played a starring role in ensuring that minorities are accepted within the film and television production industry.
Residents who know of a Lambton College graduate with an inspiring story are encouraged to contact the alumni association as the school always looks to recognize notable alumni.
The Lambton College Alumni Association can be reached via email at alumni@lambtoncollege.ca.