David Martin
David Martin (Class of 1983) became the newest recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award at Spring Convocation on Sunday, June 3, 2007. Alumni Association President Jason Pusiewich (pictured left) introduced David (pictured right) at Convocation.
Jason's speech appears below:
"Tenacity, curiosity, and a good sense of humour.
Along with a strong intellect, these are just three qualities that will help get you through your degree, no matter what subject you’re taking.
David Martin is blessed with an abundance of all these qualities, and it’s led him to success in his studies and a prominent career as an advocate and spokesperson for people with disabilities.
Today, David is being presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award.
It’s an honour the Alumni Association bestows on graduates who have made significant contributions to the community, who are accomplished in their professions, and who demonstrate exceptional strength of character.
I’d like to share with you just a few of his achievements:
- David is a member of the class of ’83, graduating with a BA in Politics.
- He graduated from the University of Manitoba’s Division of Continuing Education in ’98 with a Certificate in Management.
- For more than 17 years, David worked for the Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities.
- During his days as an advocate, he became a regular source for comment on high-profile issues including the Robert Latimer case, which you might remember was a landmark court battle involving a father who killed his disabled daughter.
- Also with the League, David was active in the development of many government policies and programs which support those with disabilities.
- For four years, David served as managing director of Ten Ten Sinclair Housing, Inc., an organization that helps disabled individuals make the transition to independent living.
- Since 2004, David has served as Executive Director of the Province of Manitoba’s Disabilities Issues Office.
- He has worked with international organizations offering training to those with disabilities in the West Indies and Ukraine.
- He has also served on a wide variety of councils and boards, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada, the Court Challenges Program of Canada, the Equal Rights Advisory Committee, and many more.