Honouring outstanding and inspirational African-Canadian leaders

The Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA) recognizes those who have displayed leadership in areas such as business, professional excellence, arts and community service. North York General Hospital (NYGH) is pleased to announce Norma McCormack, Clinical Team Manager of Acute Care and Specialized Geriatric Services as this year’s recipient of the Harry Jerome Award for Professional Excellence. Norma has a true passion for working in the area of elder care, and is deeply involved in her community, including her work as a strong advocate for those living with sickle cell disease.

“Norma is extremely deserving of this recognition. She has been a member of the NYGH team for many years and has championed much of the work we have achieved to enhance care for our elderly patients,” says Susan Woollard, Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive at North York General.

The theme for this year’s awards is “Decade Leaders” which pays tribute to the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (UNDPAD). Established in memory of Harry Jerome, an African-Canadian Olympian, scholar and social advocate, the annual awards celebrate and honour inspirational African-Canadians and are recognized as an elite symbol of Black achievement.

“Norma displays strong leadership in her role at North York General, not only helping to guide her team but by providing excellent compassionate care to our patients, many of which are part of our vulnerable population. She is incredibly deserving of this recognition and we are proud to have her as a member of the NYGH team and an inspirational mentor for many others,” adds Susan.

About the Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA):

Founded in 1983, the BBPA is a charitable organization aimed at advancing Canada’s Black community by facilitating the delivery of programs supporting business and professional excellence, higher education, and economic development. The BBPA represents the interests of Black businesses and professionals throughout the greater Toronto area, and is involved in advocacy, training, communications, and leadership development. Along with workshops and programs at its BBPA Centre of Excellence, the BBPA presents the Annual Harry Jerome Awards, the BBPA National Scholarships, and the National Black Business Convention (NBBPC). For more information, please visit the BBPA at www.bbpa.org.