Trustees at the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board hosted the ninth annual "Celebrating Excellence" event on Thursday, May 21st, honouring students and staff for exceptional contributions and achievements over the past year. The annual event, which took place at St. John Vianney Parish in Barrie, was marked by heartwarming and inspiring recognitions across various categories.

Board Chair Susan van Amelsvoort served as emcee for the evening. “This annual event is an opportunity to recognize the incredible individuals who make our Catholic school communities so strong,” said Susan van Amelsvoort. “The students and staff who were honoured have demonstrated leadership, compassion, perseverance, and service in ways that inspire all of us.”

Nearly 300 staff, students and family members attended the event to recognize 60 recipients in several categories:

• Outstanding Graduates – Graduates from each of SMCDSB’s nine Catholic secondary  schools are recognized for their accomplishments and contributions in fields including law, education, skilled trades, athletics, and the arts.

• Academic Achievements – Students receiving prestigious academic honours and recognition

• Athletic Achievements – Students who have placed in the top three at the Ontario Federation of Student Atheltic Associations (OFSAA) and other provincial and national competitions in sports, including track and field, swimming, alpine skiing, and more.

• Artistic Achievements – The evening will showcase student artistic talent, including  the Board’s annual Christmas Card Artwork Contest and Student Artwork Commissioning.

• Lwanga Equity Vanguard Awards – These awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership in promoting equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging within  their school communities.

• Seton Awards for Faith and Service – These awards honour individuals who  exemplify Catholic values through faith, social justice, compassion, and community  service.

• Empower Simcoe Inclusion Excellence Awards – These awards recognize  individuals who foster welcoming and inclusive learning environments for all students.

View this year's programme and recipients at smcdsb.on.ca/ce2026