Sherry Paquin is the recipient of the 2023 Leonard Skye “Building Bridges” Award sponsored by the Dryden Working Circle
DRYDEN, ON – May 19th, 2023 – The Working Circle presented Sherry Paquin with the Leonard Skye “Building Bridges” Award which recognizes an individual, business, or organization who has demonstrated leadership in enhancing diversity, respect, harmony, equality, and humility for others.
With the award, she also received a special gift of a Star Blanket. The blanket demonstrates great respect, honour, and admiration for the recipient. The giver of the blanket holds the individual in very high regard, and when placed on the recipient, it is wrapping them with respect and admiration. The Star Blanket also brings good dreams, prosperity, and protection.
The Leonard Skye Building Bridges Award was conceived in 2015 to honour Leonard Skye, a long-time teacher, and Elder in the Dryden Area. His Aboriginal Heritage and Language courses at Dryden High School opened many students’ eyes to their shared history, increased their pride in their culture and language and began building bridges and better understanding in Dryden and surrounding area. The award was previously sponsored by the Dryden Area Anti Racism Network (DAARN) and as of 2023 has transitioned to the Working Circle to be administered.
“As a Teacher at Dryden High School, Sherry has brought the practices of Indigenous culture to life at our school in the service of educating our students, staff, and community. She has done this consistently throughout her career” shared Natasha Mousseau, Principal at Dryden High School. “This year she retires, and we will be sad to see her leave but know that her style of teaching has had an impact on the lives of all involved to continue to carry forward the importance of embedding Indigenous cultural practices and teachings into our daily educational landscape.”
The members of the Working Circle would like to thank all the nominees for 2023 and advise that their names will be carried forward to 2024 for consideration for the award.
See the full notice below.
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