Parks and Recreation Ontario and the Ministry of Health Promotion celebrated the achievements of those in the parks and recreation community in April at the PRO Awards Ceremony and President's Luncheon in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The highly coveted awards expressed PRO's admiration and gratitude to individuals and organizations who contributed to the advancement of parks and recreation throughout Ontario.
Jessica Taylor, a graduating student from the Recreation and Leisure Services Program at Conestoga College and an employee of the City of Kitchener Community Services Department received the Bob Secord College Award from Minister Mike Colle, representing the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration and from Barbara Secord, representing the Secord family. The Bob Secord Award recognizes a student who has shown positive attributes and potential for the parks and recreation sector in their academic, employment and voluntary pursuits. The award honours the memory of a man known as "Mr. Sport and Recreation". Mr. Secord's life long contribution to the development and advancement of people through participation in recreation, sport and athletic endeavours is well-known to all in the profession.
Jessica's impressive professional portfolio highlights her academic achievements and her leadership in the Recreation and Leisure Service program at Conestoga College. Her diverse employment experiences in customer service and in the field of recreation, including the City of Kitchener, reflect her passion for public service. Jessica's history of volunteer commitment demonstrates her belief in the importance of volunteerism. Jessica is a very fitting recipient of the Bob Secord College Award.
Congratulations Jessica! You will make a difference in the lives of others in the field of recreation and leisure.