DeGroote School of Business
A smiling professional sitting at their office space.

Value Champions

The Values Champion Program is a platform to recognize our community members who exemplify and demonstrate our core values.

A smiling professional sitting at their office space.

What is a Value Champion

The Value Champions program provides the opportunity to recognize and reward colleagues who live Our Core Values every day in the DeGroote School of Business The Value Champions program was introduced in 2024 with the primary focus of celebrating employees who exemplify the values at the heart of DeGroote.

A crowd of staff and faculty clapping at award ceremony.

Collaboration. Community. Inclusivity. Innovation. Integrity.

Every individual among us is a potential Value Champion, actively breathing life into these guiding principles. The Value Champion initiative serves as our platform to celebrate one another’s achievements and ensure our employees are acknowledged for wholeheartedly embracing these values.

2025 Staff Recipients


Chris Harrison

Systems Administrator

Chris consistently demonstrates exceptional collaboration, responsiveness, and dedication, bringing people together, driving successful outcomes, and going above and beyond to support the team and achieve DeGroote School of Business goals.

Emily Vance

Recruitment Officer

Emily exemplifies the spirit of Community through her kindness, collaboration, and commitment to bringing people together. Whether through initiatives like the Friendship Café or the simple act of sharing her baking, she fosters connection, inclusivity, and a strong sense of belonging across the DeGroote community.

Marg Leyland

Career Development & Relationship Manager

Marg exemplifies inclusivity through her commitment to reconciliation and equity, creating meaningful learning opportunities that encourage students to reflect on their role in advancing positive change. Through her thoughtful integration of Indigenous perspectives into career education, she has fostered awareness, inclusion, and a deeper sense of purpose within the DeGroote community.

Gabe Jacobs

Career Development & Relationship Manager

Gabe has demonstrated exceptional innovation by creating the CERT dashboard, transforming complex internship data into actionable insights that have enhanced decision-making, student support, and program delivery across the Career and Professional Development team. His impactful work has been recognized across McMaster, earning him a place in the Operational Excellence Forum Showcase and highlighting DeGroote’s leadership in data-driven innovation.

Greg Rombough

Manager, Undergraduate and Specialized Graduate

Greg consistently demonstrates integrity through his honesty, accountability, and compassionate leadership, ensuring colleagues and students feel supported, respected, and heard. His thoughtful guidance and swift action in challenging situations help foster a workplace culture built on trust, fairness, and respect.

2025 Faculty Recipients


Glen Randall

Professor, Health Policy & Management

Dr. Glen Randall exemplifies DeGroote’s commitment to Community through his trusted leadership, unwavering support, and dedication to the success of students, faculty, and colleagues. Through mentorship, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to helping others thrive, he fosters a strong sense of belonging and excellence within DeGroote School of Business.

Brent McKnight

Associate Professor, Strategic Management

Brent’s visionary leadership, strategic mindset, and unwavering commitment to student success have been instrumental in the growth and success of the IBH program. Through his collaborative approach, deep program knowledge, and dedication to continuous improvement, he has created a lasting positive impact on students, colleagues, and the DeGroote community.

Nominate a Value Champion

Inspired by a colleague who embodies the values that are at the heart of DeGroote?
Submit your nomination here!

 

Nominations will be accepted from November 1 – October 31

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