Championing Excellence in Co-op Education: Francis Lecours wins Yvonne Thompson Page Co-op Student of the Year Award

Released: April 8, 2024 | Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Story Co-operative Education and Careers

Francis Lecours, Bachelor of Business Administration, Co-op student

Selected from a pool of highly competitive nominees, Francis stood out for his outstanding achievements during his co-op work terms with the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces. As a mature student with over 20 years of diverse work experience and English as his second language, Francis has defied odds and became an example of dedication, resilience, and excellence. His journey is not just one of personal triumph but a testament to the transformative power of experiential learning.

Dr. Lane Trotter, President of Camosun College said: “Congratulations Francis on your remarkable achievement and thank you for being such an incredible ambassador for the college. We always hear from students that co-operative education has a monumental impact on their career development. I have no doubt you will continue to make significant contributions in your future endeavors.”

"Francis has made significant contributions to our organization and deserves to be recognized for his hard work and dedication. His ability to tackle complex tasks with enthusiasm and deliver exceptional results has been commendable."p

– Brian Hayward, Francis' supervisor at the DND

During his co-op work terms, Francis played a pivotal role in facilitating cyclical reviews of positions with expired language profiles for the DND. This project, critical for ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policy, showcased Francis' meticulous attention to detail and his ability to navigate complex organizational structures. Francis also received a "Certificate of Excellence" from his Commanding Officer at the DND for his outstanding efforts during his co-op work terms.

Brian Hayward, Francis' supervisor at the DND, remarked, "Francis has made significant contributions to our organization and deserves to be recognized for his hard work and dedication. His ability to tackle complex tasks with enthusiasm and deliver exceptional results has been commendable."  

Francis' achievements extend beyond accolades and awards. His commitment to promoting the value of co-op education is evident in his active participation in recruitment efforts and onboarding processes for fellow students. His dedication to fostering a culture of learning and growth earned him an Honourable Mention from the Association for Cooperative Education and Work Integrated Learning BC/Yukon (ACEWIL) Co-op Student of the Year, further solidifying his status as a champion in co-op education.

Jennifer Phillips, Co-op and Internship Coordinator-Business and Office Administration Programs at Camosun College, expressed, "It has been a joy to work with Francis as both a student and as an employee. He has fully embraced his academic and work-integrated learning opportunities, and I am confident he is worthy of the Yvonne Thompson Page award."

Claudia Sperling, Applied Learning, Co-op Education and Career Services Director at Camosun College, emphasized the significance of Francis' achievements, stating, "Camosun College is immensely proud of Francis' remarkable achievements and contributions to both the college and the workplace. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of experiential learning. His resilience, dedication, and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring co-op students, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in shaping successful careers."

As Francis reflects on his journey, he expresses gratitude for the opportunities provided by the co-op program, stating, "Co-op education has allowed me to gain real-world experience in my chosen field, applying knowledge in a practical context and growing both personally and professionally."

School recipients of the YTP Co-op/WIL Student of the Year Award

• Overall Co-op/WIL Student of the Year and Business Co-op Student of the Year: Francis Lecours
• Co-op Student of the Year – Arts and Science: Mia Bergen
• Co-op Student of the Year – Hospitality Management: Tedford Hsia
• Co-op Student of the Year – Technology: James Gauthier
• WIL Student of the Year – Kinesiology: Jared Smith

About the Yvonne Thompson Page Co-op Student of the Year Award:

The Yvonne Thompson Page Co-op/WIL Student of the Year Award recognizes outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, contributions, and growth during their co-op work terms. Named in honor of Yvonne Thompson Page, a pioneering advocate for co-op education, the award celebrates students who embody the spirit of experiential learning and excellence in their chosen fields.