Kingston's Donna Gillespie awarded the EDCO's highest honour in economic development

By Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist, for the Local Journalism Initiative.

After over 15 years working in Kingston’s economic sector, Donna Gillespie, CEO of Kingston Economic Development, was recognized during the president’s dinner and awards ceremony for the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) in Toronto last week, taking home the Joseph A. Montgomery Economic Development Achievement Award. 

The award represents the EDCO’s highest honour in economic development, according to a release from Kingston Economic Development. The award pays tribute to the legacy of Joseph A. Montgomery, who was a driving force behind the establishment of the EDCO and the Economic Development Association of Canada. Gillespie is the fourth recipient of the award since 2017. 

“I've had the privilege of working alongside Donna for almost a decade. Witnessing the remarkable transformation in our local economy and within the economic development office has been truly inspiring. Donna is a team player and collaborator; her ability to unite talented individuals towards overarching community goals is admirable. This award is a well-deserved recognition!” says Mayor Bryan Paterson.

Gillespie had a pivotal role in various crucial initiatives, including bringing Canada Royal Milk to Kingston, spearheading the Kingston Film Office, the creation of the first Kingston Arts Awards of Excellence, and establishing the Kingston-Syracuse Pathway.

“Not only did Donna rebuild this organization with integrity and discipline, but also she has led the organization through a significant strategic refocusing effort that has aligned Kingston with one of the most significant changes to our economy in generations,” says Anne Vivian-Scott, Chair of the Board of Directors for Kingston Economic Development. “On behalf of the board, I want to congratulate Donna on winning this award and to thank her for making Kingston such a wonderful place to grow my business.”

“I am extremely honoured to be recognized by EDCO for the work I have done. Economic developers have a great opportunity to have a positive impact on their communities supporting entrepreneurs, attracting new investment and creating an environment for business success. I’m tremendously grateful to have strong leadership on the Board and a rockstar team to support me along the way,” says Gillespie.