AESES Volunteers’ Appreciation Banquet 2026
Annually, AESES acknowledges, thanks, and celebrates its Board of Representatives and longstanding volunteers. This year’s event took place at the Norwood Hotel at the end of April. Karen Simpson, AESES President, presented the following pins and awards after supper:
Bronze Pin – 5 Years of Service
- Katy Hunt
- Teddy Zegeye-Gebrehiwot
Silver Pin – 10 Years of Service
- Judy Archibald
- Lara Coombs-Sokalski
- Robert Dvorski
- Jillian Golby Borsa
- Daniel Gwozdz
- Leanne Shumka
- David Waller
Dedicated Service Award
The Dedicated Service Award was awarded to Mary Kuzmeniuk. Mary’s consistent dedication to AESES was recognized with this award. Mary was unable to attend.
Honourary Life Member Award
An Honourary Life Membership is the ultimate recognition by AESES and, therefore, should be considered as being somewhat restrictive. Honourary Life Membership will be granted only to those who have contributed outstanding or meritorious service to the Association over a substantial period of time. This year, Joan Duesterdiek was recognized with an Honourary Life Member award at the banquet. Gloria Saindon was also in attendance to be presented with her Honourary Life Member award that she was awarded last year but could not attend in 2025.
After the presentations and speeches, the night ended with a live band and dancing.
A huge thank you to all our volunteers who provide their time and expertise to help the organization and the members. Volunteers are the lifeblood of AESES and essential to continued success and support for members.
If you are reading this and would like to volunteer, visit these respective pages: Board of Representatives or Committees, or email aeses@aeses.ca.
Tags: insideAESES, insideAESES June 2026