Durham College (DC) would like to congratulate Brian Legree, professor, School of Media, Art & Design (MAD), and award recipient of the Chair Academy’s 2021 Exemplary Leadership Award.

The award recognizes achievements that advance academic and administrative leadership in higher education organizations. For 30 years, the Chair Academy has hosted the International Leadership Conference as an opportunity for leaders from all levels to share ideas, issues and challenges faced in the higher education sector.

Each year, award recipients are honoured at the Chair Academy Conference Awards Gala. This year’s event, set to take place on November 18 in Scottsdale, Arizona, will recognize both 2020 and 2021 award recipients and the incredible impacts they’ve made to education.

Nominated for his work as program co-ordinator of DC’s Journalism – Mass Media program, Brian successfully introduced the “working newsroom” concept in 2018 as a teaching and learning model that combines work-integrated learning, collaboration with community partners and international opportunities to provide students with a rich educational experience.

“Brian’s ability to uncover and incorporate innovative methods that support the study of journalism has truly been inspiring,” says Greg Murphy, dean, School of Media, Art & Design. “As the industry continues to evolve in response to digital technology, Brian has demonstrated that journalism programs are worthy of continued investment at a higher education level, and we are very fortunate to have his sense of perseverance and passion at Durham College.”

Anyone who has crossed paths with Brian, whether as a student or a colleague, has likely heard his mantra: “It’s a good day for journalism.” The DC community shares Brian’s sentiment today, and offers their congratulations on receiving this momentous award.

For more information about the Exemplary Leadership Award, please visit the Chair Academy’s website.