LaSalle Celebrates Community Leaders at Inaugural Awards of Excellence

The Town of LaSalle proudly celebrated outstanding individuals, teams, artists, businesses, and community leaders at the inaugural LaSalle Awards of Excellence on April 9, 2026. This new event recognizes those whose dedication and meaningful contributions continue to shape LaSalle into a strong and vibrant community.

More than 140 nominations were submitted, highlighting excellence across arts and culture, business and innovation, community service, leadership, and sport. Following a thorough review process, the LaSalle Awards of Excellence committee short-listed nominees in each category, with 13 recipients honoured during a special celebration held at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing.

“A community is not defined simply by buildings, roads, or neighbourhoods, said Mayor Crystal Meloche. “It is defined by its people – those who give their time, share their talents, support one another, and help create a place to call home” The LaSalle Awards of Excellence celebrate these individuals and organizations who make such a meaningful difference in LaSalle”.

The awards were created to recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations whose efforts strengthen community connections, inspire excellence, and contribute to LaSalle’s vision of an unmatched quality of life. The following are the award categories and recipients.

Awards of Distinction

Youth Leadership 

Angelo Lucier, recipient of the Town of LaSalle’s 2026 Youth Leadership Award. A Grade 11 student at Sandwich Secondary School, Angelo has been recognized for his academic excellence, student leadership, volunteer work, and the creation of the Orange Bracelet Campaign supporting Indigenous youth programs.

Legacy Award 

Robert Moore, recipient of the Town of LaSalle’s 2026 Legacy Award. A longtime coach at Sandwich Secondary School, Moore has been recognized for more than two decades of leadership in track and field and his lasting impact on generations of student athletes.

Mayor's Distinguished Achievement Award

Jeff Burrows, drummer and founding member of the Canadian rock band The Tea Party, has been named the Town of LaSalle’s 2026 Mayor’s Distinguished Achievement Award, recognizing both his international music career and his dedication to raising funds for local charities.

Arts and Culture Award

Excellence in the Arts

Individual or group with consistent artistic excellence, originality, and a significant contribution to LaSalle’s cultural life. May also include recognition beyond LaSalle.

Recipient: Marie-Rose Music Studio

Business and Innovation Awards

Business Excellence Award (Under 15 employees)

Business operating in LaSalle that shows growth, innovation, outstanding customer service, and active participation in community initiatives.

Recipient: Tina Bezaire Insurance Ltd.

Business Excellence Award (15+ employees)

Larger business with proven excellence in innovation, staff development, customer service, and significant community impact.

Recipient: Montessori Early Years

Excellence in Customer Service

Business or individual known for exceptional service, responsiveness, professionalism, and an outstanding reputation within the community based on customer feedback.

Recipient: Rob’s Pharmacy LaSalle

New Business of the Year

Business opened within the last 2 years that shows early success, creative service delivery, strong customer service, and positive contributions to LaSalle’s community or economy.

Recipient: The Yoga Effect

Professional Excellence Award

A professional who demonstrates strong ethical standards, innovation in their field, leadership, and a consistent record of volunteerism or civic involvement.

Recipient: Dr. Bryce Leontowicz

Young Professional Award

A business or professional leader under 40 who displays entrepreneurial spirit, career excellence, and involvement in community development or mentorship.

Recipient: Dr. Janelle Abela

Community Awards

Councillor Desjarlais Community Champion Award

Individual, group, or organization that demonstrates leadership and compassion through exceptional volunteerism, civic engagement, or community impact projects.

Recipient: St. Andrew’s Community Food Bank

Trailblazer Award

Honours a teacher who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership in education, making a lasting positive impact within the LaSalle community — regardless of their place of residence.

Recipient: Angela LaPorta

Sport Awards

Coach or Mentor of the Year

Recognizes a coach or mentor who leads, trains, or supports athletes or participants within the Town of LaSalle, demonstrating exceptional leadership, skill development, and a positive influence on the community — regardless of their place of residence.

Recipient: Mara Martin

Athlete or Team of the Year

Must be a LaSalle resident or team member with notable athletic achievements in competitions. Demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship both on and off the field, and serves as a role model for others.

Recipient: WonderBroads Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boat Team

The Town of LaSalle extends its sincere thanks to the generous sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who support the LaSalle Awards of Excellence, as well as those who have supported the nominees. Their contributions helped make the celebration possible. 

Visit the LaSalle Awards of Excellence. A gallery of photos will be posted to the website at a later date.