Former Georgian College president named to Order of Ontario

Dr. MaryLynn West-Moynes, who retired in June 2022, among 26 people who will receive the province’s 'highest honour'

Dr. MaryLynn West-Moynes, former president and chief executive officer at Georgian College, has been named to the Order of Ontario.Supplied photo

Former Georgian College president and chief executive officer Dr. MaryLynn West-Moynes has been named to the Order of Ontario.

West-Moynes, who retired from her position at Georgian College in June 2022, is among the 26 people who will receive the province’s "highest honour for their outstanding achievements" for 2022.

“As chancellor of the Order of Ontario, I am proud to recognize the Order’s 2022 appointees," Lt.-Gov. Elizabeth Dowdeswell stated in a news release issued Monday through the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. "These remarkable Ontarians demonstrate outstanding merit and excellence in many diverse disciplines, including the arts, science, education, sports, and human rights.

“In reflecting the best of Ontario, they inspire the best in ourselves," Dowdeswell added. "On behalf of a grateful province, I offer my warmest congratulations.”

West-Moynes was named president and chief executive officer of Georgian in August 2012. Her contract was extended in September 2018.

According to the college at that time, her accomplishments had included the addition of 30 market-driven diplomas and graduate certificates, investments in skilled trades and apprenticeship students, and strengthening of curriculum development, quality teaching and change-making.

The college has also noted she "championed an innovative and dynamic partnership with Lakehead University to increase degree capacity in central Ontario," while also ensuring Georgian’s commitment to "deepen research and drive innovation" with the opening of the Advanced Technology Centre at the Barrie campus.

West-Moynes received her PhD from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Her research examined organizational culture and leadership skills. She also holds an MA in adult education from Central Michigan University and a BASc from the University of Guelph.

Just last week, the Telus Friendly Future Foundation announced it was contributing $10,000 to the Georgian College Food Locker at the Barrie campus in honour of West-Moynes. She chaired the Telus Barrie and Central Ontario Community Board and is retiring from that position after more than six years.

The incoming lieutenant-governor, Edith Dumont, will bestow the honour on the new appointees during a ceremony taking place Nov. 27.

The ministry say the Order of Ontario recognizes exceptional leaders from all walks of life and diverse fields of endeavour whose impact and lasting legacy have played an important role in building a stronger province, country and world.

Also receiving the honour are world-class sprinter Andre De Grasse, former National Hockey League player Eric Lindros, former deputy premier Elizabeth Witmer, and the late Dr. Vanessa Burkoski, who was a past-president of the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Burkoski was invested in a private ceremony before her death in August 2023.

Other appointees to the Order are: