Jul 15, 2010
Vancouver, BC - Daniel Budgell was awarded the 2009 Langara College Outstanding Alumni Award for Community Service. This annual award celebrates the contribution of exceptional individuals who have enhanced the reputation of the College through their inspirational career, public service, community service, athletic, arts and culture, or academic achievements. The award was presented at Langara's Annual Awards Luncheon held on June 23, 2010.
Budgell, an alumnus of Langara's Arts and Science program, is the founder of the non-governmental aid organization Global Peace Network (GPN). In 2005, he established the charity in response to his experience working in Mwanza, Tanzania as part of Langara's Rural Communities Health Project. During his time in the region, Budgell befriended a group of street children and quickly realized the need to provide children with a safer and healthier environment where they can learn and grow.
GPN, with the help of motivated local Tanzanians, has worked tirelessly to help displaced and homeless children gain shelter, education, food aid, and medical care. The charity is staffed entirely by volunteers and over 90% of donations received go directly to project funding. This year alone, they assisted over 300 children.
Today, GPN continues to expand its services. Recently, they added the distribution of mosquito nets to help prevent the spread of malaria; planted trees to reverse the deforestation endemic in the region; and secured funding to build an orphanage, community centre, classroom, and dispensary in Mwanza.
"It is a privilege to recognize Daniel with this award," said Dr. David Ross, Langara president. "Often our students are encouraged to contribute and Daniel's work in Mwanza has had a far-reaching impact that is greater than we would have imagined for any recent graduate. His accomplishments and vision are inspiring and will hopefully encourage future graduates to follow their dreams."
Langara College, located in beautiful Vancouver, BC, Canada, provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies programs and courses to more than 20,000 students annually. The College's expansive academic breadth and depth allows students to choose their own educational path. The College offers three bachelor's degrees as well as a comprehensive variety of diplomas, certificates, and citations.
Media contact:
Ian Humphreys, Ph.D.
Director, Communications & Marketing Services
Langara College
604-323-5671
news@langara.bc.ca