Teachers union honours three members with merit awards
ELORA – The Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) District 18 – Upper Grand is recognizing Pamela Brown-Wass, Lori Lutes and Chantale Zongor as recipients of the 2026 District 18 Award of Merit.
Representing three different bargaining units within District 18, these recipients exemplify the many ways OSSTF members contribute to students, colleagues, workplaces, and public education, union officials state in a press release.
The District Award of Merit recognizes outstanding contributions and service to students and the workplace.
Recipients are nominated by their peers – colleagues who have witnessed firsthand the difference they make in the lives of others.
Pamela Brown-Wass
Brown-Wass, a retired secondary teacher and current member of the Occasional Teachers’ Bargaining Unit is recognized for her longstanding commitment to equity, inclusion and public education. She used to teach at Centre Wellington District High School.
Throughout her career as a secondary teacher and in her continued service as an occasional teacher and federation leader, Brown-Wass has championed equity, anti-racism, human rights, and professional learning, officials state.
“Her leadership has helped create more inclusive learning and working environments while ensuring diverse voices are represented in educational and union spaces.”
Lori Lutes
Lutes, a retiring social worker and member of the Professional Student Services Personnel Bargaining Unit, is recognized for more than thirty years of dedicated service to students, families, and colleagues.
As a social worker, mentor and advocate, Lutes has “consistently gone above and beyond to support student well-being and success,” officials state.
“Her compassion, expertise, and commitment to ensuring that students receive the support they need have made a lasting difference throughout her career and have inspired colleagues across the district.”
Chantale Zongor
Zongor, a teacher at John F. Ross CVI and member of the Teachers’ Bargaining Unit, is recognized for her extraordinary contributions to student life and school community.
Through student leadership programs, major fundraising initiatives, community partnerships, and countless school-wide events, officials say she has helped shape a vibrant and inclusive school culture.
“Her energy, creativity, and commitment to student engagement have touched virtually every aspect of student life at John F. Ross CVI.”
OSSTF District 18 president Tracey Mackie said “The District Award of Merit recognizes outstanding contributions and service to students and the workplace.
“Pamela, Lori, and Chantale each embody those values through their leadership, advocacy, compassion, and commitment to their school communities.
“We are proud to celebrate their contributions and the positive impact they have had on students, colleagues, and public education.”
The awards were presented at the District 18 Retirement and Awards Dinner on June 3 at the GrandWay Events Centre in Elora.
