2023 George Keenan Award 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.
George Keenan
George Keenan was a dedicated Toastmaster who served Toastmasters International and District 60 for many years, particularly as Parliamentarian and Credentials Chair, and as District Governor in 1984-85. He was one of the most recognized Toastmasters in District 60 due in large part to his stature and his distinctive black hat which he always wore. In 1995, to commemorate his 80th birthday and his 35th year in Toastmasters, his wife Judy, in coordination with the District Leadership Team, established an award in his name.
The George Keenan Award is given each year to an active Toastmaster in District 60 who continues to serve and promote the Toastmasters organization within the district and externally. The Selection Committee, consisting of past recipients who continue to be active in District 60, meets to consider all eligible nominations, selecting a recipient who embodies the Toastmasters values and continues to serve Toastmasters in District 60.
Nomination Process
The nomination deadline for the 2024 award is March 15, 2024!
You can nominate a past district leader you feel meets these qualifications by:
- completing the George Keenan Award Nomination Form (PDF / Word)
- talking to your nominee to obtain any additional insights into past contributions,
- soliciting testimonials or additional information to support the nomination, (optional)
- sending your submission to GK@toastmasters60.com
Previous award recipients who continue to be members of District 60 make up the Selection Committee. They review all submissions and, in addition to roles held, consider other factors including integrity and conduct when deciding the recipient of the award.
The 2024 George Keenan Award will be presented at the District 60 Conference in May 2024.
Award Recipients:
| 2023 David Bachan 2022 Johanne Von Zuben 2021 Elton Brown 2020 Karim Premji 2019 Marilyn Latchford 2018 Phyrne Parker 2017 Randie Jacobs 2016 Karen Goodyear 2015 Dawn Frail 2014 Tim Sulisz 2013 Tony Nelson 2012 John Rich 2011 Rob Peck 2010 Ross Mackay 2009 David Chilvers |
2008 Bill Bienia 2007 Judy Suke 2006 Eric Matto 2005 Michiel Bagchus 2004 Kai Rambow 2003 Heather Loveridge 2002 Raghbir Dhillon 2001 Pauline Duncan-Thrasher 2000 Ralph Williamson 1999 Doug Barclay 1998 Bob Porter 1997 Vince DaCosta 1996 Harold Usher 1995 George Keenan |
