Huntington University Hands Out Community Leadership Awards


On September 29, 2016 Huntington University hosted the 2nd annual Dr. Edward J. Conroy Distinguished Lecture Series and Community Leadership Awards.  This prestigious event and awards program celebrates local residents and groups who demonstrate true leadership through community action.  The 2016 winners include Dr. Denis Roy the President & CEO of Health Sciences North, the Learning Disabilities Association of Sudbury, Markus Valtonen of the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, NEO Kids and St. Joseph’s Villa of Sudbury.  In addition, Rick Bartolucci was presented with the VitaNova Award for Outstanding Community Leadership.


“Civic leadership is a value our institution places in very high regard.  This event, in particular, reaches beyond the walls of Huntington University by recognizing those who exemplify commitment through their leadership and service in the community,” said Dr. Kevin McCormick, President and Vice-Chancellor of Huntington University.


“This awards program was established in recognition of Dr. Conroy, an outstanding community builder whose dedication to Greater Sudbury and the university are truly inspiring.  As a past recipient of this award myself, I know what a great honour it is to have your passion for this community and your volunteer work appreciated with a prestigious award such as this one,” stated Patricia Mills, Chancellor of Huntington University.


Ron DiFrancesco, the last survivor of 9/11, provided the keynote address.  The Canadian was one of only four from above the 81st floor who survived, and the last man to make it out of the South tower alive. DiFrancesco shared his harrowing personal story, telling the audience what it was like to be in the tower that day, and what life has been like since living through the worst terrorist attack on American soil.  Although his is a story of deep personal pain and struggle, DiFrancesco focused much of his talk on the importance of gratitude, resilience, adversity and giving back.


“Life is a gift we have all been given,” said DiFrancesco to the crowd of nearly 150 people who attended this afternoon’s event.  “What we do with this gift shapes the path on how we live.”


About. Dr. Edward J. Conroy

Dr. Edward J. Conroy is one of the founders of Huntington University and served as a member of the Board of Regent’s prior to his appointment as the university’s third Chancellor.  In 1995 Huntington presented him with an Honorary Doctorate of Sacred Letters, and most recently he was named Chancellor Emeritus.  In addition, he is a well-respected criminal and civil litigation lawyer and partner in the firm of Conroy Trebb Scott Hurtubise LLP, and a past president of the Sudbury Law Association.  In May 2015 Huntington University celebrated the launch of the    Dr. Edward J. Conroy Distinguished Lecture Series and Community Leadership Awards, established in recognition of Dr. Conroy’s outstanding leadership in the community and dedication to our university.  Dr. Conroy continues to be a strong supporter of many community events and causes.


Click here to view the event photos.

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