Prestigious Rotary award for President DeGagné

The Rotary Club of Nipissing celebrated and recognized Nipissing University President Dr. Mike DeGagné as a Paul Harris Fellow for his outstanding contribution to community during a celebration dinner last Friday night.  
The recognition honours individuals who have made substantial contributions to humanitarian and educational causes, while serving as leaders in the community. Rotary International District 7010, District Governor Brian Menton presented Dr. DeGagné with the recognition.

Roughly 100 people attended the dinner to honour DeGagné.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. DeGagné discussed his strong belief in the importance of service and giving back to one’s community. He also talked about his good fortune in working with and leading organizations, like Nipissing University and the Aboriginal Healing Foundation, that work for the betterment of their communities.

The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honours Rotary gives. Recipients are Rotarians and community professionals who are honoured for outstanding contributions to our community and beyond, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary placing “service above self”.

Previous recipients of the Paul Harris Fellowship Award include:Chief Paul Cook, North Bay Police ServiceVic Fedeli, MPP (awarded when he was involved in non-profit fundraising campaigns on behalf of the community)Andrew Hazlewood, Program Director for the Duke of Edinburgh Program run out of St. Joseph Scollard HallDr. Joseph Madden, Local Pediatrician/Fundraising Chair One Kids PlaceMonique Smith, Former MPP (awarded post-politics)
All proceeds going to The Rotary Foundation which empowers Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact both close to home and around the world.