DeGroote Recognition
Inspire. Impact. Transform.
At the DeGroote School of Business, recognition is how we bring our values to life. Through programs that honour Collaboration, Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, and Integrity, we celebrate faculty and staff who lead with purpose and create positive change.
Recognizing excellence—whether in research, teaching, leadership, or service—builds a culture of belonging and appreciation. When individuals feel valued, they’re more engaged, motivated, and committed to our shared mission.
By shining a light on those who go above and beyond, we inspire others to do the same and strengthen DeGroote’s reputation as a values-driven, people-first community.
What is a Value Champion
Every member of our team has the potential to be a Value Champion. This initiative is our way of recognizing and celebrating those who go above and beyond to bring our shared values to life.
The Value Champion program is more than recognition—it’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. It’s how we honour those who lead by example and help shape a culture rooted in purpose and excellence.
Nominate a Value Champion
Inspired by a colleague who embodies the values at the heart of DeGroote?
Submit your nomination here!
Our Values Are Our Strength
Collaboration, when considered as a value, signifies a commitment to actively working together, pooling resources, and sharing expertise to achieve shared goals and enhance overall outcomes. It embodies the belief that collective efforts and diverse perspectives yield better results than individual endeavours. Collaboration as a value promotes open communication, respect for others’ contributions, and the willingness to synergize talents for the betterment of a team, organization, or community. This value fosters an environment where cooperation is prized, and individuals strive to create an atmosphere of mutual support and shared success.
Community, as a value, embodies the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, interconnectedness, and shared responsibility among individuals. It emphasizes the recognition that we are part of a larger collective – whether it’s a local neighborhood, workplace, cultural group, or society at large. Valuing community involves promoting inclusivity, supporting one another, and collaborating to create a positive and supportive environment.
This value encourages individuals to contribute to the well-being of the community, engage in acts of kindness, and actively participate in efforts that enhance the quality of life for all members. It emphasizes empathy, social cohesion, and a commitment to the common good. Embracing community as a value means valuing relationships, showing concern for others, and striving to create a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Inclusivity, as a value, means creating an environment where everyone is respected and valued, regardless of differences. It’s about embracing diversity, providing equal opportunities, and ensuring that all voices are heard. This value promotes understanding, empathy, and collaboration, leading to a stronger and more harmonious community.
Innovation, as a value, represents a commitment to fostering a culture of creativity, forward-thinking, and continuous improvement. It involves seeking new ideas, methods, and solutions to address challenges and seize opportunities in fresh and effective ways.
Valuing innovation means encouraging experimentation, embracing change, and being open to novel approaches. This value promotes a mindset of curiosity, risk-taking, and adaptability, where individuals and teams are motivated to push boundaries and explore uncharted territories.
Integrity, as a value, embodies unwavering honesty, ethical conduct, and steadfast adherence to moral principles. It entails consistently aligning one’s actions, decisions, and words with a strong sense of right and wrong. Valuing integrity means upholding transparency and accountability in both personal and professional interactions, even when faced with challenges or temptations.
This value promotes a foundation of trust and reliability, as individuals who prioritize integrity are seen as dependable and principled. It emphasizes standing up for what is just, regardless of the circumstances, and maintaining a strong moral compass even in the absence of external oversight. Valuing integrity ultimately contributes to fostering a culture of respect, fairness, and authenticity, both within oneself and within the broader community or organization.
Message from the Dean
As we continue to grow and evolve as a learning community, I want to take a moment to reflect on the values that define who we are and guide everything we do: Collaboration, Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, and Integrity.
Collaboration is the cornerstone of our academic and professional excellence. When we bring together diverse perspectives, we create stronger ideas and deeper learning experiences. I encourage each of you to seek out opportunities to partner across disciplines and roles.
We are strongest when we stand together as a Community—supporting one another, celebrating each other’s achievements, and working through challenges with empathy and understanding. Every one of you contributes to the vibrant, dynamic environment that makes our institution unique.
Inclusivity is not just a goal—it’s a commitment. We strive to create spaces where every individual feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive. Our differences enrich us, and our shared purpose unites us.
Through Innovation, we push boundaries and reimagine what is possible. Whether in research, teaching, or service, I urge you to think boldly and act courageously, knowing that progress often begins with a single idea.
And underpinning all of this is our unwavering Integrity. In every decision we make and every action we take, we must uphold the highest standards of honesty, responsibility, and ethical conduct.
These values are not just words—they are the principles that define our culture and shape our future.
Khaled Hassanein,
Dean, DeGroote School of Business
Gary Waterfield Award
The Gary Waterfield Staff Award is open to DeGroote School of Business staff in recognition of those who have made an outstanding contribution to DeGroote beyond the normal expectations of their role. Staff may be acknowledged for exceptional quality of service, improvements in the daily operations of their department or area, contributions that foster harmonious and inclusive working relationships, and efforts that enhance the reputation of the DeGroote School of Business.
Nominations are accepted year-round, so please take time to nominate a staff member who you think deserves recognition today.