“Leadership is, for me, acknowledging the strengths and contributions of your colleagues, who invariably lay the terrain for anything you may individually do.” (Stephen Lewis)
François Rochon
Ottawa sees more than its fair share of award dinners, galas and high profile events. There are awards given out every year for many reasons: sports, philanthropy, political careers, business and the list goes on. But on October 28, 2003 something unique was being celebrated. The University of Ottawa held its inaugural Distinguished Canadian Leadership Awards.
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Gilles Patry, rector of the University of Ottawa, best explained the purpose of the awards in his opening remarks:“As Canada’s university, we feel an obligation to recognize and celebrate Canadians who have demonstrated national and world leadership, and few Canadians have had more impact on their nation and the world than those we honour tonight.”
The venue was the National Gallery of Canada. Guests were ushered to the Water Court Foyer where cocktails were served under the otherworldly shimmer of natural light, filtered through a pool of water. The inaugural leadership awards were graced by the presence of prime-minister-in-waiting Paul Martin, who spent a few minutes addressing the guests. His light-hearted comments revealed a deep admiration for all the award recipients.
The dying light of day was replaced by the warm glow of candles that dotted the majestic concourse leading to the Great Hall, stunning at night where soaring windows capture the Parliament Buildings, the Ottawa River and the Gatineau Hills in vertical frames. The imposing architecture mirrored the grandeur of the occasion. Following dinner the Great Hall was filled with the Ancient Airs and Dances of Respighi, interpreted by the University of Ottawa String Orchestra under the baton of conductor David Currie.
The inaugural recipients of the leadership awards: Maurice Strong, Hilary Weston and Stephen Lewis and the recipient of the Meritas-Tabaret Award, Paul Tellier, are individuals who, to a great extent, define leadership in Canada. Each one has developed clear goals and values. Each one has uncompromising adherence to principle. Each one exemplifies integrity and confidence. Each one has a vision for a more decent, humane and civilized community. They have taken that vision and transformed it into action. And in so doing, they have shaped the definition of leadership in this country.
Although individual Canadians have been honoured for their accomplishments or their commitment, not many are honoured for their leadership. It seemed only fitting that Canada’s university should celebrate Canadian leadership in a formal and enduring way. Institutions of higher learning, by their very nature, mould the people that will become the leaders of tomorrow. The University of Ottawa, in the heart of Canada’s capital, is strategically placed to recognize leadership and shape the leaders of the future.
