Chancellor John R. Sweeney Award for Catholic Leadership
The John R. Sweeney Award for Catholic Leadership is presented annually by St. Jerome’s University to an individual or group who has demonstrated, through action or initiative, a concern and care for the greater community. Named for John Sweeney, the first lay Chancellor of the University, the award recognizes the ongoing need for a Catholic presence and voice in shaping future leaders and engaging in the challenging issues facing the world today. In October 2021, Steven Lubczuk was recognized at the 20th Annual Feast of St. Jerome fundraising event (held online for the first time in October due to the pandemic), as the recipient of the 2021 Chancellor John R. Sweeney Award.
“I am humbled by St. Jerome’s University selecting me as its 2021 Sweeney Award recipient,” stated Lubczuk. “It is an even greater honor to be placed in such distinguished ranks as those of the past honorees, all of whom have made important contributions to life in our spiritual community and great country.”
Each year the Sweeney Award honours its namesake’s role in the community as an educator, politician, and volunteer. Sweeney was the first Director of Education of the former Waterloo Region Roman Catholic Separate School Board; a Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener-Wilmot; served in the cabinet of the David Peterson government; and after retirement, became the Chancellor of St. Jerome’s University. Steven Lubczuk joins a list of previous recipients of the Sweeney award that includes The Right Honourable Paul Martin, Dick Callahan, Dr. John “Jack” Raymond Sehl, Robert Way, Mary Kuntz, and in 2020, COVID-19 Pandemic Essential Workers.
Steven Lubczuk is the Managing Partner of one of Canada’s largest law firms Miller Thomson’s Southwestern Ontario offices and is a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. Lubczuk has been practicing law for over 35 years and is known for providing counsel to his clients in an empathetic yet practical and skilled manner. As a voice for junior lawyers, Lubczuk has led meaningful training programs, mentored Associates and students, and maintained an open door policy to all seeking his guidance and advice. He was recognized in the The Best Lawyers in Canada – Family Law (2014-2021) and The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory, Family Law (2014-2016).
Lubczuk’s work in the community is broad reaching. It includes being the past director for the Rotary Club of Kitchener, and for Kidslink; past director and former chair of Children’s Services Committee, K-W Habilitation Services; past director and secretary for the K-W Kinsmen Club; and past president for the Waterloo Wellington Flying Club. He has also served the people and programs of the spiritual community as an active member in the St. Francis of Assisi Parish (Kitchener), and a Board member for Notre Dame of St. Agatha. He is a current member of the Lay Advisory Committee to the Congregation of the Resurrection, and a member of the Patrons of the Vatican Arts and Museum. Lubczuk also served on the Board of Governors at St. Jerome’s University (2011-2017).
Fr. Norm Choate, C.R., Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award
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| Cheri Chevalier was on campus recently to receive her 2020 Fr. Norm Choate, C.R., Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award, from President and Vice Chancellor, Peter Meehan. The award presentation was delayed due to the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 in-person graduation ceremonies and gathering restrictions. Photographer: Bryn Gladding Photography |