David Simmonds, BA’07
Recipient of the 2022 Dr. Ivan Smith Award
When David Simmonds greets a new member of the Western community, he cheerfully says, “welcome home.” For David, the words represent a deep fondness and affinity for the place he called home as a student. A life-long ambassador for the university, David feels indebted to the place where he started to become himself.
As a student David was immersed in campus culture, becoming involved in sports and students’ council, studying liberal arts and finding his voice.
Following graduation at Western, David studied at the University of Toronto, Royal Roads University, and the Wharton School. As Global Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Great-West Lifeco & Canada Life, he is a highly regarded strategist who is relied upon for engaging keynotes and commentary including on CBC’s The National.
David was genuinely surprised when he received word of his nomination for the Dr. Ivan Smith Award which is Western Alumni’s highest tribute, recognizing significant contributions to the Alumni Association, Western and society. During his tenure as Alumni Association President, he authored a strategic plan that has served as a guide for the Association and helped them to attain the immense goal of doubling alumni engagement.
David’s committee participation has included Western’s Senate, the chair of the Alumni Association, Board of Governors, EDI Advisory Council and the Strategic Planning Steering Committee to name a few.
An advocate for gender parity and 2SLGBTQ+ rights, David has made monumental change in Western’s culture with the aim of helping Western “be the best it can be”.
For David, inclusion is essential. He was named One of Canada’s Top 100 Black Canadians in 2015 and is a voice for the 2SLGBTQ+ community across the GTA. In 2022, David received the prestigious Harry Jerome leadership award celebrating excellence within the Black community.
What makes David so fascinating is his charisma and constant evolution, growing and adapting (and ensuring Western does the same) on his journey to become his most authentic self.
