Location: 20th anniversary of the French Language Services Act > Ontario Francophonie Awards - Francophone

"Gérald Savoie's vision of excellence and his unifying leadership, as well as his determination in critical situations, make him a model for Francophones throughout the province." – Selection Committee

Gérald Savoie – Francophone

As President and Chief Executive Officer of Montfort Hospital, Gérald Savoie has demonstrated his leadership qualities often. After playing a mobilizing role in the campaign for Montfort's survival, Mr. Savoie is now overseeing a major redevelopment of the hospital that will double its size. Under his leadership, Montfort has become a reputable institution and a centre for excellence that is cited as an example in the health community.

Mr. Savoie has also led several other successful initiatives to improve access to health services in French, including establishing an agreement with the University of Ottawa for the training of future health professionals at Montfort. Mr. Savoie was also Chair of the French Language Health Services Working Group, which recommended the government that the development of French-language health services be controlled by the Francophone community.

Gérald Savoie is an exceptional administrator who adheres to a simple but effective philosophy: listen, plan, and act. His energy, his negotiating skills and his deep personal commitment to the Franco-Ontarian community are a source of admiration for all. Mr. Savoie believes that, in order to ensure its long-term vitality, Ontario's Francophone community can and must continue to develop, to strive for excellence, and to maintain control over its institutions, much as Montfort was called to do.