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Donor Profile: Michael Fitzsimmons ’09
The Power of Connection and Paying it Forward
The relationships I built with my classmates, teammates, teachers and coaches were invaluable
— MICHAEL FITZSIMMONS ’09
The journey of Michael Fitzsimmons ’09 is a testament to the strong bonds forged within the LCC community and the school’s guiding motto, Non Nobis Solum, or Not for Ourselves Alone.
Now flourishing as an investment banker in the United States, Michael’s time at LCC was marked by his academic success, coupled with a passion for athletics — notably football, hockey and rugby. His well-rounded education and exceptional athletic abilities culminated in scholarships at prep school and Union College in Schenectady, NY, following graduation.
As Michael ventured into the world beyond LCC, he discovered the incredible power of the LCC alumni network. In fact, every step of his professional journey was accompanied by an LCC connection, earning him career opportunities at Paysafe Group, Duff & Phelps, BMO and, most recently, Deloitte.
However, his path wasn’t always obvious. When financial circumstances threatened to end his LCC journey prematurely in grade 8, it was the Trevor Smith Award that allowed Michael to stay on through to his grade 11 graduation from the school.
Established through contributions in honour of Trevor Smith, LCC’s athletic director who served at the school between 1969–2005, the award encapsulates his lifelong aspiration to foster an environment where students can truly flourish.
Today, Michael ensures that the torch of generosity keeps burning bright by donating annually to the fund as a thank you and to pay it forward. He recognizes that there are students whose situations mirror his own and who, just as he did, rely heavily on financial assistance. His fondest memories from his time at LCC include winning several city championships, embarking on athletics trips and participating in a one-act play in grade 9 alongside his hockey team. “The relationships I built with my classmates, teammates, teachers and coaches were invaluable,” says Michael. These friendships and experiences are, according to him, the true treasures of his time at LCC.
