Ontario Tech University recognizes excellence and philanthropic impact

Ontario Tech University recently honoured four outstanding individuals for their volunteerism, professional excellence and commitment to enriching the Ontario Tech experience. The awards were presented at the university’s annual Chancellor’s Dinner, hosted by Chancellor Mitch Frazer, where thought leaders and partners engaged with Ontario Tech experts to explore the future of AI and its impact on society.

The Chancellor’s Circle Award and Presidential Award of Distinction celebrate philanthropic contributions and impact that align with the university’s mission to inspire curiosity, creativity, ingenuity and growth.

Chancellor’s Circle Award

This award celebrates individuals who have made outstanding volunteer contributions to their community, enriching the lives of others through general gifts of time, talent, and involvement with civic, charitable or social causes. It also recognizes individuals whose professional achievements serve as an inspiration to others.

• 2025 recipients:
  
  
• 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 his leadership roles with The Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health and the SickKids Capital Campaign Cabinet, Jeff’s unwavering commitment to community well-being and social impact has earned him 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, Steve has created lasting opportunities for young people while demonstrating how professional success can drive positive change.
  
  
• Beth Kelly, President, Halloway Developments Limited; and Vice-President, 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

The Presidential Award of Distinction recognizes those whose actions and dedication have impacted the Ontario Tech experience through either outstanding personal service and commitment or contribution to the university community.

• 2025 recipient:
  
  
• Lisa McBride, Vice-President and Country Leader, GE Hitachi SMR Canada, for exceptional dedication to Ontario Tech and its students. As a valued member of the university’s 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 university’s 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 science, technology, engineering and math, and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the nuclear field.

To read more about these distinguished awards and see past winners, visit the Ontario Tech Awards of Distinction web page.

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