2025 Award Winners
CITIZENS & ORGANIZATIONS OF THE YEAR
Anne Driscoll
A lifelong Saint Johner, Anne Driscoll grew up on the city’s west side and continues to call the neighbourhood home. Her commitment to community service was inspired by her family and strengthened through a 20‑year career with the Saint John Human Development Council, where she developed a passion for poverty‑reduction work. Since 2010, Anne has served as Executive Director of the Crescent Valley Resource Centre and has also volunteered with several local and national organizations. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the Bay of Fundy and Irving Nature Park, always on the lookout for a new bird to add to her list
Bernard Cormier
Bernard Cormier served as the City of Saint John’s Cultural Affairs Officer from 1987 to 2018, making him the longest‑serving cultural practitioner in Atlantic Canada. He played a key role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape, including helping Saint John earn designation as a Cultural Capital of Canada in 2010, co‑founding the national Festival by the Sea, supporting the preservation of the Saint John Arts Centre, and serving as a founding board member of the Imperial Theatre. Since his retirement, Bernard has continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership and community service through extensive involvement with veterans’, arts, and civic organizations, leaving a lasting impact on Saint John.
Dickie Crossman Memorial Foundation
Established in memory of Dickie Crossman, who passed away as a young man 24 years ago, the Dickie Crossman Memorial Foundation was created to turn tragedy into positive community impact. Through the annual Dickie Crossman Memorial Golf Tournament, the Foundation supports PRO Kids and youth initiatives in Saint John, while proudly preserving Dickie’s legacy.
Top Corner Hockey
Top Corner Hockey offers youth in the region opportunities to strengthen both their physical and mental health through sport. Using hockey as a foundation, the organization helps young people build confidence, develop self‑respect, and experience the game as a positive lifestyle. Top Corner focuses on personal growth, ensuring participants emerge with strong self‑esteem and self‑worth.
COUNCIL COMMENDATIONS
Carleton Community Centre
The Carleton Community Centre is a registered charity located on Saint John’s Lower West Side. Serving residents of all ages, the Centre offers a wide range of social and recreational programs that promote inclusion, connection, and community well‑being.
Johanne and Ivan McCullough
Johanne and Ivan McCullough are leaders of a volunteer‑powered community initiative supporting people who are unhoused and living rough in Saint John. With the help of more than 100 volunteers, they prepare and deliver hot, homemade meals every day directly to encampments. For many, this outreach provides their only meal of the day.
The Saint John Learning Exchange
The Saint John Learning Exchange supports adult learning and skill development in the community. Through its programs, the organization helps learners build confidence, access education, and create new opportunities, contributing to a stronger and more inclusive Saint John.
Terre Hunter
For more than 30 years, Terre Hunter has been a leader in Saint John’s sports community. He has guided Senior and Junior Alpine baseball teams to championships and helped host national Little League tournaments, enhancing the city’s profile and tourism. Terre has also dedicated countless volunteer hours to minor and senior baseball, community initiatives, and church programs.