Recognized Barrie entrepreneur Chris Gariepy invested as 16th Fellow of Georgian College
June 19, 2019
Chris Gariepy has become the 16th person honoured with the Fellowship of Georgian College. The prestigious designation was conferred on Chris by Georgian College Board of Governors Chair Don Gordon and President and CEO MaryLynn West-Moynes during convocation ceremonies at the Barrie Molson Centre on June 19.
The Fellowship of Georgian College is an honour bestowed on individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to education or the general expansion of knowledge, particularly in the Central Region of Ontario. Fellowship implies a privilege of membership in the college community, and a lifetime association with Georgian.
This fellowship recognizes Chris’s exceptional leadership and initiative during his time on Georgian’s Board of Governors and his longstanding, continued contributions to advance the college’s entrepreneurship and innovation strategy.
Chris joined the Board of Governors in 2010, serving for six years as an active and passionate governor – including one year as Chair. During his time as Board Chair, his leadership was integral in guiding the college through many challenges.
“As a member of the board, Chris provided vital mentorship, wisdom and guidance,” says MaryLynn. “He was also the founding member of the President’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Council, which helped advance Georgian’s opportunities for entrepreneurship in our communities. As President of both Chris Gariepy Construction Advisors and Chris Gariepy Governance and Business Advisors, his insights as a member of council were invaluable. His passion for our entire community, backed by skill and commitment is not only valuable – it is inspirational for our students.”
Chris led a process to consult with over 100 entrepreneurs, which assisted greatly in developing the vision and mandate of the Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre (HBEC). He was also an early supporter and mentor for HBEC. In addition, he was instrumental in planning for the Sandbox Centre, Barrie’s new hub supporting entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs.
During his time at Georgian, Chris’s expertise in community engagement was demonstrated as Chair of the Advancement Committee of the Board. He and the committee laid the groundwork for a transformative $42-million Power of Education campaign to enhance the lives of students – benefiting countless generations at all Georgian campuses for years to come.
MaryLynn adds that Chris embodies many of the same qualities Georgian hopes to instil in their students. “He has an innovative mindset, and uses his skills and expertise to contribute in every way he can,” she said.
Chris’s dedication to excellence and passion for serving others extends beyond the college. He is heavily involved in the community and has been an active volunteer with many organizations. He has also been a member of the Georgian Angel Network, which has invested $12 million in approximately 35 companies over the past six years.