Dr. Gary Polonsky honoured as 2005 Business Person of the Year by the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade
October 28, 2005
OSHAWA, Ont. - The Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade honoured Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology President Dr. Gary. Polonsky as the 2005 Business Person of the Year at its 11th annual Business Excellence and Business Person of the Year Gala held last night at Deer Creek Golf Club in Ajax.
The award recognizes Dr. Polonsky's major contributions to post-secondary education in the community through the establishment of the Ontario's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, and the tremendous growth of Durham College under his leadership.
I am delighted to receive such a prestigious honour in recognition of the team that is strengthening post-secondary education in Durham Region, said Dr. Polonsky. Creating new opportunities for students to become the leaders of tomorrow has been our greatest achievement.
The award focuses on achievements in five key areas including: leadership and entrepreneurial skills, employee/labour relations, contributions to community, and marketing/promotional achievements.
For more than 17 years, Dr. Polonsky has been the driving force behind the growth and success of one of Canada's leading community colleges. As president and CEO of Durham College since 1988, Polonsky has championed numerous campus developments to enhance student success and provide an exceptional educational experience.
In an effort to provide more post-secondary options to students living in Durham Region and Northumberland County, Dr. Polonsky spearheaded the creation of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) leading a team of colleagues, community partners and government on a 15-year journey to establish Ontario's newest university.
During his 42-year career in education, Dr. Polonsky has received numerous awards for his outstanding contributions to providing the highest quality education for Ontarians. A firm believer in lifelong learning, Dr. Polonsky obtained his Doctorate in Education from the University of Toronto in June 2003. He also holds a BSc from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay and an MA from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.
An ambassador of good will, Dr. Polonsky's actions have enriched the lives of countless individuals and he has a personal dedication to the community. He is very active in national and community based organizations. He serves as Honorary Patron of the Oshawa-Durham Symphony, and Honorary Chair of Junior Achievement, the Multiple Sclerosis Walk, and is Chair of the team planning to bring the Memorial Cup to Oshawa in 2008.
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Media contact
Heather Middleton
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111 ext. 2197
heather.middleton@dc-uoit.ca
