12th UNB alumnus to receive YMCA Leader to Watch Award: John Fitzpatrick
Author: Young Alumni
Posted on Apr 10, 2017
Category: Inspiring Stories , Young Alumni , UNB Saint John
Since the YMCA Leader to Watch Award was created in 2002, 12 UNB alumni have been among the recipients, including this year's award winner John Fitzpatrick (MBA '12). Fitzpatrick will receive the honor alongside Arthur Irving, 2017 Red Triangle Award recipient, at an awards gala on May 4 at the Saint John Regional YMCA.
The Leader to Watch Award recognizes young individuals who demonstrate leadership and enthusiasm in their work, in educational settings and as a volunteer in the community. Fitzpatrick says he feels humbled to be recognized by the YMCA, and is honoured to join a group of former leaders who are making remarkable contributions to the city and province.
"I was very happy and humbled to find out I was nominated for this award," he says "And it's great to be an alumnus from a university that’s so involved, making an impact in the community and helping its students stay in the area."
Fitzpatrick graduated from UNB Saint John in 2012 with a Masters in Business and is now Wealth Management Advisor with TD Private Investment in Saint John. When Fitzpatrick is not working with clients and corporations on their investment planning, he is often found exploring local businesses in the uptown or participating in community initiatives.
An avid volunteer with a wide range of volunteer interests, Fitzpatrick lends much of his time and talent to various groups in the city. He sits on the YMCA endowment committee, the Symphony New Brunswick Foundation finance committee, and is a member of both the Sea Dogs Foundation and FUSION Saint John, a networking group for young professionals.
"The more you can get involved in making your community a better place, the more interesting a life you're going to live," he says. "For me, it makes life more enjoyable."
In such a short time since graduating, Fitzpatrick has been a true leader in both his personal and professional life, inspiring other young professionals to get involved in their own areas of interest.
"I think it's important to focus on creating a prosperous community and getting young people get out to make the community better."