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.
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.
Inspired by a colleague who embodies the values at the heart of DeGroote?
Submit your nomination here!
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.
One of the things that makes the DeGroote School of Business truly special is the incredible dedication, innovation, and impact of our people. Whether it’s through teaching, research, service, or community engagement, each individual plays a vital role in shaping the experience and reputation of our School.
As Dean, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the many accomplishments across our community. Recognition is not just about awards or formal accolades—though those are important—it’s also about acknowledging the day-to-day contributions that help us grow stronger together.
I encourage all of us to continue celebrating each other’s successes, big and small. Whether it’s a colleague’s research milestone, a student’s achievement, or a team’s collaborative effort, let’s take pride in the positive impact we’re making.
Thank you for everything you do to make DeGroote a place of excellence, inclusivity, and purpose. Let’s keep supporting and uplifting one another as we move forward together.
Have a question? Send us an email, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
