Ontario Tech Awards of Distinction

Chancellor’s Circle Award

Jeff Gallant, Portfolio Manager, Senior Wealth Advisor, Gallant MacDonald, for exemplary leadership in wealth management and a transformative impact on philanthropy, youth education and mental health in Canada. As co-founder of Capitalize for Kids and through leadership roles with The Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health and the SickKids Capital Campaign Cabinet, Jeff has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community well-being and social impact, earning national recognition, including Canada’s Top 40 Under 40.

Steve Gallant, Senior Wealth Advisor, Gallant MacDonald, for outstanding dedication to community service and leadership in the financial sector. As founder of Ringside for Youth, a philanthropic initiative that has raised $3.5 million to support underprivileged youth in Ottawa, Jeff has created lasting opportunities for others while demonstrating how professional success can be a force for good.

Beth Kelly, President of Halloway Developments Limited, Vice President of Valiant Rental Properties, for exceptional leadership in Ontario’s real estate and development sector and a deep commitment to community building in Oshawa and beyond. A dedicated philanthropist, Beth helped establish the Hann-Kelly Family Chair in Disability and Rehabilitation Research at Ontario Tech and supports student bursaries that empower future leaders. Her volunteer leadership, including as Co-Chair of Lakeridge Health’s Our Cancer Campaign, reflects an enduring commitment to advancing health care and community well-being.

Presidential Award of Distinction

Lisa McBride, VP, Country Leader GE Hitachi SMR Canada, for exceptional dedication to Ontario Tech and its students. As a valued member of the Board of Governors and the Tech with a Conscience Campaign Cabinet, she has provided leadership and guidance that advance the university’s mission and priorities. As past Chair of the Women for STEM Council, Lisa has been instrumental in the creation and success of the Women for STEM program, driving positive change, empowering women in STEM and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the nuclear field.

Chancellor’s Circle Award

John Ruffolo, Founder and Managing Partner of Maverix Private Equity, is a courageous champion of the Canadian technology industry and an individual who has impacted the Canadian tech ecosystem in unparalleled ways. His remarkable contributions include leading Maverix's inaugural fund investments in various sectors and chairing the Investment Committee. Additionally, his extensive involvement with organizations like OMERS Ventures and the Council of Canadian Innovators highlights his dedication to fostering innovation and growth in Canada's technology sector.

Presidential Award of Distinction

Lucy Stocco, the Executive Vice-President at Tribute Communities, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the Ontario Tech University community. With her leadership, Tribute Communities has embodied its mission to be good corporate citizens by generously supporting the university through significant contributions. This includes the creation of the Tribute Communities Success Scholarships. Lucy Stocco's visionary leadership and commitment to the betterment of her community and education exemplify her as a driving force behind support for Ontario Tech University.

Flavio Volpe, head of Canada's Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, played a pivotal role in advancing the automotive sector. Volpe spearheaded Project Arrow, an all-Canadian, zero-emissions, autonomous concept prototype, aligned with the Prime Minister's net-zero economy goal by 2050. His role as a policy expert in national trade and industry competition has been instrumental in elevating the industry's global prominence.