2023 Recipient:
David Bachan, DTM
When the Chair of the George Keenan Selection Committee for 2023, Johanne Von Zuben, called David to tell him he had been selected to receive the 2023 George Keenan Award, the first words he uttered when he answered the phone were, “Hey, Johanne! How can I help you?” That is how the Selection Committee knew they had made the right decision: his total willingness to step up to help out wherever and whenever he can.
David joined Toastmasters in 2011. He is dedicated and supportive of his clubs and his fellow members. His first club, Speak Out State Street and IFDS, is so near and dear to his heart that even today he is still a member and is the current President of that club. David doesn’t stop there though. He also belongs to two advanced clubs: ART – Advanced Royal Toastmasters and TGIF Advanced Toastmasters, providing thought-provoking and insightful evaluations and taking meeting roles on a regular basis.
David was selected as the George Keenan Award recipient because of his undying dedication to District 60. He has held numerous roles including Public Relations Manager, Administration Manager, and Logistics Manager, all to support the District Executive Committee (DEC). Through the years, he has helped out all members by taking the lead as the District Zoom Chair and Club Officer Training (COT) Chair.
Young people learning the lessons and skills Toastmasters offers is especially important to David. He has coordinated and run multiple Youth Leadership Programs (YLP) and has served as the District YLP Chair. He brought the program home, too, helping his own children by running mini-YLP sessions! What a great start they had under David’s guidance.
David says his passion for Toastmasters is fuelled with admiration for his fellow members’ grace and humility. We continue to inspire him with selfless acts, constant striving for excellence, and helping each other become better. He says, “You have succeeded, I am so much better because of you and Toastmasters.” And David, we are so much better for knowing and working with you. Thank you for your years of service to District 60—we look forward to many more. Congratulations on receiving the George Keenan Award. Wear the hat with pride.
