Indigenous St. Lawrence College, through its Board of Governors, may recognize the outstanding achievements of individuals or organizations by awarding Honorary Diplomas to those whose accomplishments are of such excellence, inspiration, and leadership, that they serve as an example and inspiration for the students and graduates of our college. To that end, consideration is not limited to a community or regional nominees but may also include those individuals who represent provincial, national, or international achievement.
The recommendation of nominees for the distinction of honorary diploma is considered based on academic or social achievement, intellectual or social contribution, and resonance with the mission, vision and values of St. Lawrence College. Our criteria reflect our values of student first, teamwork, innovation, integrity and belonging. We are committed to showcasing those who role model honesty, inclusivity, and accountability as pathways to success. Nominations for the distinction of honorary diploma is a celebration of diversity, respect for differences and a sense of belonging.
Nominations are accepted year-round. Nominations received by January 31, 2026 will be considered by the St. Lawrence College Board of Governors for our Spring 2026 convocation ceremonies. Please click here to complete the nomination form.
Honorary Diploma Criteria
- Overall accomplishments: What is the significance of the nominee’s contributions?
- Resonance with SLC mission, vision & values: Is the nominee’s accomplishments in support of, and in alignment with the mission, vision, and values of the college?
- Resonance and relevance to graduates and guests: Will the nominee’s presence, message, or representation resonate with the graduates and audience?
- Community Engagement: Has the nominee positively impacted their local and broader community?
- Belonging: We believe honesty, inclusivity, and accountability as the pathways to success. As our communities continue to evolve, we look to create a sense of belonging for our students, teams, and partners and have pledged to celebrate diversity, respect our differences, value contributions, and foster an environment where everyone feels they can participate without discrimination.
Does this nominee demonstrate alignment with the college’s value of belonging?
2025 Honorary Diploma Recipients
Kenny Arruda
National Maintenance Director, WITRON
What does this award mean to you personally?
This award means a great deal to me because it reflects the years of collaboration between WITRON and St. Lawrence College. I’m deeply grateful for the partnership we’ve built, grounded in a shared vision for the future of the automation industry, shared goals, and a commitment to developing talent. But more than anything, I see this as a recognition of WITRON as a whole. It represents the hard work, innovation, and dedication of our entire team. Being honored in that context makes this award especially meaningful. It’s a reminder that investing in people and technology doesn’t just build stronger systems — it builds strong communities too.
How have your interactions with St. Lawrence College influenced your path and the work that led to this award?
Together, we’ve created opportunities that didn’t exist a few years ago. From hands-on training to direct job placements in our WITRON facilities and Laval Quebec headquarters. It’s been rewarding to see students grow through the program and step confidently into roles on our team and in the broader industry. Working with SLC has reinforced my belief that collaboration between industry and education isn’t just important, it’s essential. Their team helped us connect vision with execution, and students with opportunity. It’s been inspiring to watch the results: skilled graduates entering the workforce with confidence, and companies like ours thriving thanks to their contributions.
What wisdom would you share with SLC graduates based on your own experiences in your education and career?
Own your path. I started out as a graduate of a technical diploma and worked my way up to where I am today — and I’ve never stopped learning along the way. Be curious, be consistent, and don’t be afraid to fail — failure is often where the real growth begins. The best careers aren’t built in straight lines; they’re built by people who take initiative, adapt, and genuinely care about doing things right. Whether you’re solving technical problems or leading people, your mindset will set you apart. Build strong relationships, stay open to learning, and don’t underestimate the impact you can have — in your workplace, your community, or your industry. And when you get ahead, make sure you bring others with you.
Brett Christopher
Managing Director, Thousand Islands Playhouse
What does this award mean to you personally?
I am so grateful for this honour as it affirms the work that the Thousand Islands Playhouse has done, under my leadership, to focus on community and inclusivity. My own academic path has certainly been non-traditional, and so to receive a diploma from an institution that I hold in such high esteem is all the more meaningful.
How have your interactions with St. Lawrence College influenced your path and the work that led to this award?
Through my work in the performing arts in the region, I have been very privileged to work with students in a variety of departments, ranging from marketing to musical theatre performance. These instances have inspired me to dig deeper into my own creative work and to seek further opportunities to support the growth of the students in their chosen fields. Most recently, I have worked alongside the Musical Theatre program in Brockville to support their learning, help build their productions and find ways to help ease the transition that the graduates will experience as the enter the highly competitive live performing arts industry.
What wisdom would you share with SLC graduates based on your own experiences in your education and career?
When I entered post-secondary education, I did so out of duty. Duty to my upbringing, my friends, my teachers, everything but a duty to myself and my own interests. It was rocky and it hurt. When I finally uncovered my passion for Theatre, the path found me. Changing your trajectory is not giving up, it is the most courageous thing that you might do, particularly in the face of others’ expectations. Pursue a variety of endeavours, of possible outcomes, of interests and desires, and then listen to that gentle voice inside your heart when it whispers: ‘this, this is what you were meant for.’
Julie Tompkins
(Retired) Vice-President, Corporate Services and Chief Communications Officer, Empire Life
What does this award mean to you personally?
I'm incredibly honoured to be chosen to receive this award. I've always been so proud both to be a graduate and to have had the opportunity to stay connected and support the College in a number of ways over the years. The foundation for my career and achievements started with SLC and, having recently retired, receiving this honour now feels like things have come full circle in a way that is surprising and very gratifying.
How have your interactions with St. Lawrence College influenced your path and the work that led to this award?
When I arrived at SLC with a three-year university degree and not a lot of focus or direction, I almost immediately felt like I belonged. My professors had a faith in me that I didn't yet share, and they gently but firmly pushed me to reach further, to try new things, to believe in myself. I got involved in extracurricular activities and made friendships and connections that continue today.
After graduation, I occasionally came back to share my perceptions and experiences with other students. I was later invited to participate in SLC's Community Council and several strategic brainstorming initiatives and to join, and then chair, the College's Foundation Board. Through these activities, I was able to appreciate what a gem SLC is by virtue of its leadership, staff, students, and graduates - and how lucky I am to be an alum. I've hired and worked alongside SLC grads of communications and marketing, design, IT, finance and human resources for most of my career, because they consistently bring the best qualifications, experience, and outlooks in their fields. I can say without exaggeration that everything I learned in my program I used - and used often - as I built my career and volunteer experiences.
What wisdom would you share with SLC graduates based on your own experiences in your education and career?
Disruption and change are constant, perhaps especially so today. Avoid falling into the trap of not trying new things because either they've never been done before or because they've always been done a certain way. Allow yourself to make mistakes and, if you're in a leadership position, make sure your team members know that most mistakes can, and should, be learning opportunities. Find a community or group to connect with and share your talents, insights and time. Most of all, respect others - even those you don't agree with - and believe in yourself. Congratulations on what you've achieved so far; now hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
Dr. Jagdeep SINGH Walia
Professor of Pediatrics at Queen's University, partner of the Medical Tree Clinic, President of Kingston Sikh Cultural Association
What does this award mean to you personally?
Receiving this honorary diploma from St. Lawrence College is a profoundly humbling experience. When I reflect upon the distinguished individuals who have received this honour before me, I am filled with deep respect and gratitude, not only towards the College and my nominators, but also towards the broader community that has embraced and supported my journey.
My guiding principles, rooted in the Sikh faith, emphasize selfless service to humanity, striving always to uplift others without expectation of recognition. This award is a testament to those values and serves as a reminder that sincere efforts to serve the community do not go unnoticed. It affirms for me that when we act with honesty and compassion, our actions can inspire and resonate far beyond our immediate circles. I am truly grateful for this recognition, which I accept on behalf of all who work quietly and tirelessly to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
How have your interactions with St. Lawrence College influenced your path and the work that led to this award?
Since arriving in Kingston in 2012, I have come to regard St. Lawrence College as a cornerstone of our region’s academic and cultural life. My interactions with SLC, initially through personal and professional relationships with faculty, and later as President of the Kingston Sikh Cultural Association, have deeply enriched my understanding of community engagement and the transformative power of education.
Collaborating with SLC members and faculty, our association worked to welcome and support the increased number of international students SLC was hosting, as they navigated new challenges in a foreign land. The Gurudwara became a sanctuary for many, regardless of their background, reflecting our belief in helping others and the importance of extending a hand to all in need. I have also had the privilege of contributing to various SLC programs, especially in Health Care Administration, as a speaker, job facilitator, advisory board member, and through hosting students at the Medical Tree Clinic. It has been inspiring to see the growth of SLC students turn into leaders in our community. Each interaction has reaffirmed my conviction that when we unite across cultures and disciplines, we foster an environment where everyone can thrive. I am deeply grateful to the Board of Governors and the community for recognizing these collaborative efforts, which are truly a collective achievement.
What wisdom would you share with SLC graduates based on your own experiences in your education and career?
As a physician-scientist, my journey has been guided by a passion for learning and discovery. From my earliest days in medical school, I was drawn to the mysteries of the brain, eventually focusing on gene therapy-based research-a path that led me to Canada. Throughout, my faith has been my compass, reminding me that our true calling lies in serving others and seeking knowledge with humility.
To the graduating class, I offer this: Seek out what ignites your curiosity and passion and pursue it with unwavering perseverance. The road may be long, and success may not always come swiftly but remain steadfast in your purpose.
Have confidence in your abilities, and trust in something greater than yourself, whether that is your faith, your community, or the shared values that unite us. Remember, learning does not end with graduation. Embrace the mindset of a lifelong student, open to new experiences and lessons from every person you meet. Do not fear failure; it is often the greatest teacher. True fulfillment comes not from accolades, but from the journey of growth, learning, and service. Congratulations on reaching this milestone! May you continue to build bridges, uplift others, and strive for excellence in all your endeavours. My heartfelt best wishes are with each of you as you embark on the next chapter of your journey.