Mohawk College to honour seven leaders during spring convocation ceremonies
During Mohawk College’s Spring Convocation week, taking place from June 16 -20, seven highly respected academic, industry, and community leaders will be honoured with special recognition awards.
Mohawk College’s Distinguished Fellows make invaluable contributions to the college through academic advisement, student engagement, community outreach, and strategic advisement to the college’s senior leadership team. Participation in the Distinguished Fellow program is by invitation only. The title is conferred, and service to the college is recognized during Convocation ceremonies.
Since 2012, Mohawk College has honoured 73 community leaders as Distinguished Fellows. This year’s awards will be in the categories of Distinguished Fellow, Distinguished Fellow – Honorary Diploma, and new this year, Distinguished Fellow – Honorary Degree.
2025 Distinguished Fellows
Eric Vandewall – President and CEO, Joseph Brant Hospital
Distinguished Fellow
Eric Vandewall has led major advancements in care quality and infrastructure at Joseph Brant Hospital, earning Accreditation with Exemplary Standing three times. Eric is a long-standing partner of Mohawk College and a champion of the college’s health programs. He is also a strong supporter of Mohawk College’s planned expansion into the City of Burlington.
James Schlegel – CEO and Chair, Schlegel Health Care
Distinguished Fellow
James Schlegel is leading Schlegel Villages and Homewood Health in advancing senior living and mental health services. A Chartered Accountant and advocate for aging research, he chairs the Research Institute for Aging and supports educational partnerships like the Living Classroom with Mohawk College.
Keith Segal – Co-Founder, President and CEO, GuardMe International Insurance
Distinguished Fellow
Keith Segal, through GuardMe International Insurance, is a global leader in student health and mental wellness support. GuardMe is a key partner and strong supporter of Mohawk College, donating $1 million to the college and supporting International students through scholarships and program development.
Ron Foxcroft – CEO, Fluke Transportation and FOX 40 International
Distinguished Fellow, Honorary Degree
Ron Foxcroft is a renowned entrepreneur and sports official. Appointed to the Order of Canada in 2019, he officiated many notable basketball games throughout his career, earning him the National Association of Sports Officials’ Gold Whistle Award. Dedicated to advancing sports in his community, he recently served as the inaugural Chair of Mohawk College’s Athletics campaign.
Franck Gerencser – CEO and Co-Founder, triOS Education Group
Distinguished Fellow
Frank Gerencser is a recognized leader in private post-secondary education and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee and King Charles III Coronation Medals. A University of Waterloo engineering alumnus, he has fostered key partnerships—including with Mohawk College—and actively mentors future leaders through the Young Presidents Organization.
Sarah Vienot – Board Chair, Community Living Central York/ Trustee, The Marinucci Family Foundation
Distinguished Fellow, Honorary Diploma
Sarah Vienot is a branding expert with an entertainment and strategic marketing background. She chairs Community Living Central York, serves as a trustee of the Marinucci Family Foundation, and, alongside her husband Giovanni Marinucci, helped establish Mohawk’s newly renamed Marinucci Family Centre for Professional Advancement & Continuing Studies, reflecting their commitment to education and community impact.
Bruce MacRitchie – Director, Honorary Board member, Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Distinguished Fellow
Bruce MacRitchie is a Canadian aviation pioneer with over 60 years of experience as a pilot, technician, and industry leader, whose career includes roles with Lockheed Martin, Hughes, and Douglas. At 91, he continues to fly, supports aviation education—including a recent aircraft donation to Mohawk College—and serves as an honorary board member of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.
Dr. David Wheeler – Principal, Sustainable Transitions
Distinguished Fellow – Adjunct Professor
Dr. David Wheeler is an internationally recognized academic and sustainability leader with four decades of executive experience, including roles as university president, dean, and advisor to global organizations such as the World Health Organization and World Bank. A founder of major climate initiatives and co-developer of a life-saving water test kit, his work continues to influence global sustainability policy and education, and supported the development of Mohawk College's new School for Climate Action.
Dr. Wheeler will be conferred at a ceremony during the 2025 Fall Convocation.
Read more about the 2025 Distinguished Fellows as well as past honourees.