The outgoing head of the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton, Dave Brown, is among the seven Lambton College alumni nominated for this year’s Colleges Ontario Premier’s Awards.
Each college selects nominees based on their contributions to their communities. The Premier’s Awards will recognize one winner across seven categories.
“It’s an incredible honour to celebrate the impact our alumni have in their chosen professions,” said Lambton College President and CEO Rob Kardas. “In addition to their professional success, skills and work ethic, this year’s nominees have also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change in the industries and communities they serve.”
Nominees selected by the Lambton College Alumni Association are listed below.
Brown, who plans to retire from the United Way next year, has been nominated in the community services category for his work leading several charitable initiatives.
"As he enters retirement, his legacy as Canada's youngest and longest-serving United Way executive director endures," read a Lambton College media release.
Helen and Matt Smith have been nominated in the business category. The two started a children's play company in 2020 called Roo & You, which focuses on providing affordable, high-quality children’s products.
Ryan Lindsay has been nominated in the creative arts and design category for making an impact on the entertainment industry and cultural heritage. Lindsay recently launched a television comedy show, The Trades, and co-founded the Culture Capture Project, which repatriates Indigenous artifacts through 3D printing techniques.
Lisa Brush, founder and CEO of Symphony Senior Living Inc. and Blue Lotus Living LP, has been nominated in the health sciences category. Lambton College said Brush is dedicated to enhancing senior care, particularly dementia care.
Thomas Chona has been nominated in the science, technology and engineering category. As a strong advocate for renewable energy, Chona has worked to install systems, educate communities, and expand electricity access in Zambia as the chief operating officer of Zacstar Zambia Ltd.
Tracy MacDonald has been recognized for her social welfare advocacy in the recent graduate category. In addition to her role as a housing support worker for Sarnia-Lambton Rebound, MacDonald has also established United We Stand, which raises funds within the community.
Nominees will be celebrated during the annual Premier’s Awards ceremony held in Toronto on November 25.