Jubilee medals for Catholic board officials

GUELPH

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal was awarded to three distinguished leaders from the Wellington Catholic community: Don Drone, Stephen Redmond and Joe Tersigni.

A new commemorative medal was created to mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada. It is awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to a particular province, territory, region or community, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.

Don Drone, director of education and CEO of the Wellington Catholic District School Board and chair of the Directors of Education for Ontario, was recognized for his career as an educator and administrator and for his extensive involvement throughout the community – from the United Way, to the Guelph Chamber of Commerce board of directors, Family and Children’s Services of Guelph and Wellington and the Environmental Advisory Committee to name only a few.

Joe Tersigni, an educator for many years, was recognized for his passion for teaching. From his annual National Leadership Award program - which for 23 years has seen some of the most eminent Canadians come to Guelph to discuss the importance of student leadership- to the annual celebrations of Sir John A Macdonald’s birthday and Flag Day. Tersigni ensures his students never lose sight of how major events shape lives.

Stephen Redmond, an inspirational and exemplary educator, was recognized for understanding the importance of team-building and physical activity to the moral, physical and emotional development of children. As the convener of a regional track and field meet each year for over a decade to his advocacy for the Special Olympics in Guelph and across Canada, Redmond has enabled countless children to stay active, become involved in the community and fulfill their potential.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal presentations were made by MP, Frank Valeriote.

September 21, 2012