Camosun VP receives Peter Gzowski award for championing adult literacy
December 4, 2012
Literacy Victoria awarded the 2012 Peter Gzowski Award to Mr. John Boraas, Camosun's VP Education, recognizing his life-long personal and professional commitment to adult literacy.
On presenting the award, LV board chair Shawn Robins commended Boraas' enduring dedication to helping adult learners improve their lives through education and literacy. "For 20 years John has gone out of his way to collaborate with Literacy Victoria to support our adult learners in their pursuit of literacy and essential skills," says Robins. "He has shown that, in the spirit of this award, he truly understands the transformative powers that come with improved literacy, and he works tirelessly to provide the support and knowledge needed to help our clients reach their literacy goals."
"One of the most powerful things we can do as a society to improve lives is to improve literacy," says Boraas. "Literacy Victoria provides a welcoming experience for learners, building the trust and confidence necessary for success. When we work together we help learners overcome some of the barriers to moving forward and help them open doors that might otherwise seem firmly closed. It's a wonderful partnership, and the stories are truly amazing and uplifting."
Through the Community Learning Partnership programs, Camosun identifies and creates culturally sensitive learning opportunities that respond to learners' educational, social and at times, economic needs. CLP programs are offered at Bridges for Women Society, Literacy Victoria, Our Place Society, Saanich Adult Education Centre, Songhees Employment Learning Centre and Victoria Native Friendship Centre.
Literacy Victoria is a diverse learning community, matching learners with volunteer tutors on site at the Yates Street location, and through community outreach programs. The Peter Gzowski Award has been an annual feature of PGI literacy events across Canada since 1989. Past recipients include Murray McLauchlan, Peter Mansbridge, Vicki Gabereau and Frank McKenna.
Contact
John Boraas, Vice President, Education
Camosun College
250-370-4543
boraas@camosun.bc.ca
Ruth Derrick, Executive Director,
Literacy Victoria
250-381-3755
ruth@literacyvictoria.ca