Gibsons resident John Leech has received the Honorary Award of Excellence from the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE).
“The Honorary Award of Excellence is CSAE’s most significant award and recognizes a member’s sustained commitment and outstanding volunteer contributions to CSAE and thus to the association sector at large,” the organization says on its website.
Leech is the retired CEO of the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC, a professional regulatory body that grew from 1,000 to over 10,000 technology professionals during his career, according to a press release. The release said Leech led many initiatives that enhanced professional recognition, opened career and professional opportunities (most recently for people with disabilities) and created a charitable foundation that awarded $700,000 for bursaries and other career initiatives.
“He developed special programs for First Nations, promoted women in technology and contributed internationally with special initiatives in Africa, Asia and Europe,” the release said.
Tracy Folkes Hanson, president and CEO of CSAE, said, “A mentor to many, John continues his commitment and service to the community, which is illuminated by his email tag line, ‘That others may succeed.’ John has always been a strong supporter of CSAE, volunteering on several committees as well as serving on the CSAE board and CSAE BC network council.”
As a volunteer, Leech served on several boards, including the BCIT Board of Governors, with a term as vice chair, and the BCIT Alumni Association as president.
On the Sunshine Coast, Leech is the board vice chair of Habitat for Humanity Sunshine Coast and chair of the Popsicle Stick Bridge Building Contest. He recently founded the Technology Festival Association of BC, whose purpose is to promote education and careers in STEM – science, technology, engineering and math.
Leech has received many awards over the years in recognition of his service to the community and profession, including Life Time Achievement Award from BCIT, Honorary Member with the Association of BC Forest Professionals, Chairman’s Award from the BC Economic Development Association and the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal.
