The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to recognize three outstanding members of its school community as recipients of theāÆ2026 Chairperson Award: the Board’s highest honour recognizing individuals who exemplify the values, mission, and vision of Catholic education through exceptional service and leadership.
This year’s recipients areāÆDawn Wemigwans, Principal at St. David Catholic Elementary School;āÆMike Sipos, Hospitality and Tourism Teacher at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School; andāÆJennifer Larche, Educational Assistant at Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School.
Presented annually, the Chairperson Award recognizes employees who demonstrate outstanding commitment to faith, respect, community, innovation, and learning while making a lasting difference in the lives of students, staff, and families.
“These three individuals represent the very best of Sudbury Catholic Schools,” said Michael Bellmore, Chair of the Board. “Each recipient leads in their own unique way, but they all share a deep commitment to serving others, strengthening our Catholic learning communities, and helping every student reach their God-given potential. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and proud to recognize their remarkable contributions.”Ā
Dawn Wemigwans
As Principal of St. David Catholic Elementary School, Dawn Wemigwans has built an inclusive, faith-filled school community where every student, family, and staff member feels welcomed, respected, and supported. Throughout her career, she has championed Indigenous education, cultivated meaningful community partnerships, and inspired innovative learning experiences that celebrate culture, belonging, and student success. Her servant leadership and unwavering commitment to Catholic education have left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the broader Sudbury Catholic community.
Mike Sipos
For more than two decades, St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School teacher Mike Sipos has inspired students through his passion for Hospitality and Tourism education and his commitment to serving others. Whether leading community fundraisers, preparing meals for charitable initiatives, or mentoring future culinary professionals, Mike teaches students that their talents can make a meaningful difference. His generosity, humility, and dedication have made him a respected leader within both the school and the community.
Jennifer Larche
Educational Assistant Jennifer Larche is known throughout Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to student success. Through her patient, caring approach, she creates a safe and welcoming environment where every child feels valued and supported. Her creativity, advocacy, and genuine care for students, families, and colleagues have made a lasting impact on the entire school community.
The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its sincere congratulations to Dawn Wemigwans, Mike Sipos, and Jennifer Larche on this well-deserved recognition. Their leadership, compassion, and commitment to Catholic education continue to inspire students, colleagues, and communities across the Board.
“What makes the Chairperson Award especially meaningful is that it comes from the people who know these individuals best. These nominations areĀ submittedĀ by colleagues, students, families, and community members who have experienced firsthand the positive difference these recipients make every day. Dawn, Mike, and Jennifer exemplify what it means to serve others with compassion, integrity, and faith, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate their outstanding contributions to our Catholic learning community.”Ā
ā MorrisĀ Hucal,Ā CEO and CEdOĀ ofĀ the Sudbury Catholic DSBĀ
The Sudbury Catholic District School Boardās mission is to realize each studentās potential within an inclusive Catholic Learning Community by nurturing and developing students through mind, body, and spirit. For more info about the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca
