On September 14, 2016 the regal Royal York Hotel, in downtown Toronto, made an ideal setting to celebrate the achievements of two great Canadians Mr. William Downe CEO of the BMO Financial Group and His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston the Governor General of Canada.
The formal event was directed by the talented team at E=MC2 Events with production partners from ProShow Audio Visual & Production Canada, dinnertime entertainment by The Tenors, and Professional Voice Talent Doug de Nance who definitely set the appropriate tone for the evening.
It was a distinct pleasure to work the teams and the amazing staff of the Woodrow Wilson Center Canada Institute. The Canada Institute was founded in 2001 to increase awareness and knowledge about Canada and Canada-U.S. relations among U.S. policymakers and opinion leaders. The Institute currently stands as the only nonpartisan public policy forum in Washington, D.C., the United States—and even Canada—dedicated exclusively to exploring emerging policy issues in one of the most successful and unique bilateral relationships in the world.
The Woodrow Wilson International Center for scholars is the official memorial to the 28th president. More than just a collection of marble pillars and famous quotes, the Center is "a living memorial," a gathering place for some of the best and brightest scholars and experts from around the world. Their work is the centrepiece of its activity and informs public policy debates with nonpartisan and relevant research and information.
If the words, ideas and intentions shared by both the awardees in their acceptance speeches were any indication, both corporate and public "Canadian values" of social responsibility, modesty, intelligence, compassion, charity, diligence, and enterprising initiative, inseparably combine with a pervasive inextinguishable optimism and clear forward thinking approach, continue to be ever foundational. It is inspiring to see these values so eloquently presented by Mr Downe and the Right Honourable David Johnston being recognized right at the core of our country's leadership. In words quoted by our esteemed Governor General, "as a candle is not diminished by lighting another candle. Therefore, Canadians can aspire to share their light with each other, and in turn share it with others around the world." A great message, and perhaps a timely opportunity to share good ideals amongst ourselves, and strengthen our influence with our American neighbours through positive dialogue and leadership.
Infinite loop was proud to help set the tone appropriate for this most outstanding, honourable, and inspiring event.