Awards of Excellence

Announcing the 2025 Awards of Excellence Recipients

After a brief hiatus, the Canadian Association of Exposition Management is proud to bring back the Awards of Excellence event—an opportunity to come together and recognize the individuals whose time, talent, and professionalism help shape and strengthen the Canadian events and exhibitions sector.

In 2024, the Nominating Committee undertook a comprehensive review of CAEM’s awards program, including the eligibility criteria for nominations.

Their goal was to ensure the program would be well-positioned for a successful relaunch—one that is relevant, inclusive, and reflective of our evolving industry landscape.

Following this important work, CAEM issued the first call for nominations for the 2025 Awards of Excellence and received numerous nominations.

The Awards of Excellence were created to recognize and celebrate the best in our industry.

Award recipients were recognized at CAEM's Annual Conference in Fredericton, New Brunswick on June 18, 2025.

Emerging Leader Award

• Mercedes Strachan – Landscape Ontario

Hall of Fame

Exposition Category

• Michael Dargavel, CEM – Association & Events Management International
• Bianca Kennedy – Newcom Media Inc.

Associate Category

• Kent Mascotto, CEM – RBC Place London
• Ralph Scali – SHOWTECH Power & Lighting

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Wendell Howes – Master Promotions
• Laurie Paetz (Posthumous)
• Bradley Styba – Tourism Burnaby