A handful of former Lakehead University students were honoured in October by the Alumni Association.
Since 1989, the association has presented awards honouring outstanding graduates and supporters whose accomplishments reflect Lakehead’s enduring mission and impact.
At the Lakehead Celebrates alumni awards ceremonies in October, each campus recognized this year’s recipients, especially notable on the university’s 60th anniversary.
“Lakehead’s graduates transform lives while inspiring others to follow their lead,” says Mark Tilbury, Lakehead’s alumni and annual giving director in a statement. “As we celebrate 60 years, these honourees show how our alumni and supporters bring the university’s mission to life through their skill, dedication, and vision.”
Among the graduates honoured at the Thunder Bay campus was local native David Bruno, who has “led national initiatives in cybersecurity and helped shape the Canada’s secure digital service policy landscape.”
Along with Michael Fox, a member of Weenusk First Nation and president and CEO of Indigenous Community Engagement Inc, Bruno received the Distinguished Alumni Award, given to those who have accomplished lifetime contributions through professional achievement, community involvement or philanthropy.
Jack and Carolyn Verhoeven were honoured with the Legacy Award for their exceptional commitment to the Alumni Association and the Lakehead community.
They most notably created Lakehead University’s largest donor-funded endowment, which assists 10 to 20 engineering students each year.
Francis Clayton, retired head coach of the university’s varsity wrestling team, joined Orillia graduate Jessie Clarke in accepting the Ambassador Award, which celebrates “champions of Lakehead University whose continued dedication strengthens the university community.”
Nominations for the Alumni Association Honours are accepted throughout the year with the annual deadline set for March 31.
A full list of the alumni honourees can be found on Lakehead University’s website.
