Don Penny to receive inaugural Courage Award

Assiniboine Community College is recognizing Don Penny, founding partner and past chairman of MNP LLP (formerly Meyers Norris Penny), with its first-ever Courage Award.

The Courage Award is established by the college to celebrate people who demonstrate courage in their business, community, professional or personal life. The award is created by the institution to commend and honour courage in all its forms.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Sheila North Wilson has been named as the honorary chair of the event. North Wilson is an alumna of the college, having graduated both the Business Accountancy and Rural Initiatives programs.

“I’m glad to see Assiniboine taking the initiative to establish these awards to celebrate courage,” said North Wilson. “It’s important that we celebrate success in Manitoba as we build a brighter future.”

Mr. Penny was instrumental in building a small Westman-based firm into a major player in the accounting, tax and advisory services in Canada.

“Don had the courage to take risks to pursue a vision of a different type of accounting firm, one that saw a future well beyond the comforts of Westman Manitoba,” said Frison. “Undoubtedly, he faced challenges and obstacles throughout his career, but his perseverance and determination lead the company to the success it knows today.”

Penny positioned MNP to become a national accounting and business consulting firm with more than 65 offices coast to coast.

“In addition to his success in the business world, he has dedicated much of his time to community organizations and endeavours,” said Frison. “Mr. Penny is an individual that leads with both his head and heart.”

Penny is the inaugural recipient of what the college intends to make an annual award. The award will be presented to Penny at the Courage Award Dinner on Thursday, May 11 in Brandon at the Victoria Inn and Convention Centre.

Proceeds raised from the Courage Award Dinner will go toward scholarships and development projects at ACC. More information on purchasing tickets to the dinner and sponsorship opportunities can be found at assiniboine.net/courage.

(Image) Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Sheila North Wilson has been named as the honorary chair of the event.