We were thrilled to come together with colleagues and friends the evening of November 7th for the third annual Celebrating Excellence Awards to recognize the achievements of special individuals and organizations in our sector, while raising funds for the CAGP GTA Education Bursary Program.
Congratulations to our 2024 Award Recipients: Jo-Anne Ryan, Diabetes Canada, Clayton Gyotoku and Jill Nelson! We celebrate your outstanding contributions in the world of philanthropy which inspires others to set new standards of excellence in strategic charitable giving!
2024 Excellence in Legacy Giving Award – Diabetes Canada
Diabetes Canada’s commitment to creativity and originality has forged new pathways that have transformed legacy giving within their donor communities.
2024 Exemplary Gift Planning Advisor Award – Jo-Anne Ryan
Jo-Anne Ryan’s luminous dedication to CAGP and the broader philanthropic community must be celebrated. Her tireless promotion of philanthropy, her support for industry colleagues, and her creative positioning of giving options have positively impacted our sector.
2024 Donor Distinction Award – Clayton Morikuni Gyotoku
Renowned for his kindness and exceptional generosity, Clayton’s legacy of supporting the community, lives on through the Clayton Gyotoku Fund at The Toronto Foundation. His lifelong commitment to giving has left an indelible mark, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps.
CAGP GTA Icon Award – Jill Nelson
The CAGP GTA Icon Award is a rare honour, reserved only for truly remarkable individuals with outstanding careers. We’re delighted to present the first-ever CAGP GTA Icon Award to the incredible Jill Nelson. Jill has made a profound and lasting impact on the charitable sector and beyond, through her exceptional work, volunteerism, generosity, and commitment to sharing her knowledge and expertise. Jill inspires and exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and generosity.
A heartfelt thank you to CIBC Private Wealth for co-hosting this special evening and welcoming us into their beautiful space. And thank you to our dedicated sponsors—your support made this night possible!
Gold Sponsor: Blakely Fundraising
Gold Sponsor: BENEFACTION
Bronze Sponsor: The Donor Motivation Program
We would like to acknowledge the time, efforts and commitment of our wonderful Celebrating Excellence volunteers.
🔷 Awards Planning Committee:
Co-Chairs: Alice Wu and Janine Kuzma
Members: Emelita Ervin, Julia Gorman, Berna Gülmisâl, Nipun Kudalkar, Richard J. Lefebvre, Deborah Rodrigues, and Laura Torres
🔷 Awards Selection Committee:
Co-Chairs: Janice L. Correa and Karen Hudson
Members: Kimberley Blease, Aneil Gokhale, Candice Jay, Kate Lazier, Michelle Osborne, and Eric Saarvala.