Winners announced for the Deputy Minister (DM) Commendations Young Professional Award
November 3, 2023 - Defence Stories
Caption
(L to R) Mr. Bill Matthews (Deputy Minister), Sophie Robidoux (ADM (Policy)), Capt Nicholas Besterd, C Army Caitlin Mounce (DMO) and Mr. Peter Hammerschmidt (Assistant Deputy Minister) (Policy)
This year’s winners for the DM Commendations Young Professional Award were announced at an event on October 30, 2023. These awards recognize employees who have made an outstanding contribution to meeting National Defence’s priorities.
The Young Professionals category recognizes the contributions of young Defence Team members, individuals and/or teams (up to 10 members), who have inspired their peers and the Defence Team while embracing the values of Strong, Secure, Engaged.
Celebrating young professionals at DND is not just a matter of recognizing their accomplishments, but also an investment in the future of the Defence Team. These individuals bring immense talent, energy, and fresh perspectives to the workplace.
Congratulations to all the recipients!
The recipients
Awarded to: Ashley MacLellan
Citation: Commended for their dedication in making DND a more inclusive and supportive workplace for Indigenous youth by leading Indigenous student recruitment and retention initiatives with respect, integrity and passion.
Awarded to: Caitlin Mounce
Citation: Commended for their unwavering dedication, intellectual rigour and exceptional work ethic, while deployed to Op PROTEUS.
Awarded to: Lt(N) Olivia Clarke
Citation: Commended for their professionalism, poise and inspirational leadership despite the tragic crash of the CH-148 Helicopter in the Ionian Sea.
Awarded to: S1 Mariam Angel
Citation: Commended for cultivating a positive work environment and displaying an attitude of determination despite personal setbacks.
Awarded to: Sophie Robidoux
Citation: Commended for her exemplary policy work, leadership, exceptional character, and professionalism, while paving the way for a new global ministerial forum, prioritizing team well-being, and earning praise as a strong policy advisor and manager.
Awarded to: Captain Nicholas Besterd
Citation: Commended for demonstrating exceptional resilience and leadership while juggling personal responsibilities as a primary caregiver and executing important work duties seamlessly, earning the trust and respect of his colleagues as a dedicated and reliable leader.
Awarded to: Corporal Audrey Gingras
Citation: Commended for their exceptional leadership, resilience, and adaptability, making them a role model for their peers in health promotion, mentoring, and fostering inter-unit relations.