Adele Conn among recipients honoured with King's medal

Tashi Farmilo

A distinguished group of Canadians gathered at Rivermead Golf Club in Aylmer on March 19, as the National Association of Career Colleges (NACC) presented them with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, an honour recognizing significant contributions to education and community service. Among those recognized was Adele Conn, who learned of her award in a rather unexpected way: on vacation in Punta Cana.

"I thought that once I retired, awards like these would stop," Conn remarked, her surprise evident. "But apparently, they don’t."

Michael Sangster, CEO of NACC, spoke highly of the honourees, highlighting their efforts in strengthening Canada's workforce. "Their tireless dedication equips learners with the tools necessary for successful careers," Sangster said. "These contributions are vital in critical sectors like healthcare and skilled trades."

Conn, an experienced educator who previously taught administrative procedures at Algonquin College, was recognized for her extensive work with NACC, particularly her role in refining the examination processes for personal support worker programs. Her meticulous attention to detail significantly improved the integrity of assessments critical to the profession.

"I've watched many, many exams," Conn said, recalling her extensive efforts. "I even wrote a training manual to ensure these exams remained fair and effective. Being a senior myself, I now appreciate more than ever the critical role personal support workers play in our society."

The evening also celebrated other notable community and education leaders, including Cheryl Russell-Julien, Dan Delaney, Ann Knowlton, Hugo Delisle, Martin Morissette, Martin Houde, David Leonard, Larissa Bezo, Ramona Buda, and Gary Mofford.

Reflecting on her recognition, Conn described the award as deeply meaningful and entirely unexpected. "You do the work because you love it," she explained. "To be acknowledged in this way, without anticipating it, feels truly special."

She proudly described the medal's intricate design, noting it would soon join other cherished awards in her living room. But for Conn, the significance of the award goes beyond personal pride.

"Knowing something is wonderful," she concluded. "But passing knowledge on—ensuring others understand it too—that’s even better. You're more valuable when you share your knowledge rather than keeping it all to yourself."