ACC's south campus. (Credit: Logan Praznik/The Quill)

Assiniboine Community College created and is giving out its first ever Courage Award where they will be recognizing Don Penny for his success and risk takings. The Courage Award was established in order to celebrate an individual who displayed courage in their business, community, professional, or personal life. Penny was instrumental in building the small accounting firm that was based in Westman, into a major accounting, tax, and advisory service in Canada.

The Honorary Chair for the event is Grand Chief Sheila North Wilson. Being the Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and alumna of the college, North Wilson seems like an appropriate choice for chair. Wilson graduated both Business Accountancy and Rural Initiatives programs and is excited to have this award in the ACC community.

The courage that it took Penny to change his firm and pursue a different vision for his company is truly remarkable. Penny positioned Meyers Norris Penny LLP to become a national accounting and business consulting firm with more than 65 offices coast to coast. He put a lot of time and energy not only into the business world but also his community.

This is not the first time Don Penny has been recognized for his hard work and success. Brandon University honoured him with a Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree and was appointed to Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of 26th Field Regiment RCA. He has demonstrated community commitment through several organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, YMCA, Brandon Minor Hockey, and the Wasagaming Golf Club.

The award will be presented to Penny at the Courage Award Dinner on Thursday, May 11th at the Victoria Inn Convention Centre. Proceeds that are raised from the Dinner will be going towards scholarships and development projects at ACC.

Republished from The Quill print edition, Volume 107, Issue 28, April 4th, 2017.