MCC Announces 2023 Award Honourees

The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County (MCC) has announced this year’s recipients of the Herb Gray Harmony Award and the MCC Champion Award.

“For more than 20 years, the MCC Awards Gala has been an opportunity to express gratitude to individuals and organizations who embody our mission and vision,” says Fred Francis, MCC Executive Director. “This year’s recipients have directly contributed to making Windsor Essex a more welcoming community for all. We are proud and excited to invite the community to join us as we recognize our deserving honourees.”

The Herb Gray Harmony Award — established to recognize individuals and groups who have made an outstanding contribution to building a more welcoming community for all in Windsor Essex — will be presented to Dr. Patti France, President of St. Clair College.

Dr. France has over 35 years of experience in the post-secondary education sector.

On September 1, 2015 she was appointed the sixth President, and first female President, of St. Clair College.

She is involved in many local organizations such as: The Windsor Regional Hospital Board of Directors, WFCU Credit Union Board of Directors, and Pathway to Potential. Her personal involvement in various charitable causes includes the Special Olympics and food banks across Windsor Essex and Chatham Kent.

Leading a diverse student body with high international student enrollment, France has contributed greatly to creating an inclusive and welcoming campus, while at the same time promoting Windsor Essex globally as a destination for higher education.

The Champion Award celebrates the contributions that immigrants make to our community and will be presented to Biagio (Bill) Marra, President and CEO of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare

Born in Cantone Ticino, Switzerland, Marra holds both Canadian and Italian Citizenship. Along with his parents, he immigrated to Windsor at the age of three.

After attending university, he worked in the Criminal Justice and Social Services sector. He was also a six term City of Windsor Councillor, serving for a total of 21 years.

Currently, he is President and CEO of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) and has led a person-centred model of care change in the Complex Medical Care and Palliative Units, introduced Personal Support Workers to the healthcare unit, established a HDGH Wellness Committee, and formed an EDII Alliance.

France and Marra will be recognized at the 2023 MCC Awards Gala, May 4, 2023 at the Ciociaro Club. Attendees can look forward to celebrating the diverse and vibrant culture of Cuba with this year’s theme, Havana Nights, and also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the MCC!

More information including ticket, corporate table and sponsorship information, can be found on: TheMcc.com.