[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/davidwilliamson.jpg” caption=”David Williamson, a senior executive with CIBC, was recognized with the DeGroote School of Business’ Wayne C. Fox Distinguished Alumni Award. Williamson graduated in the class of 1983. File photo.”]The DeGroote School of Business held its annual Evening of Accolades Thursday night at
the National Club in Toronto and presented the Wayne C. Fox Distinguished Alumni
Award to David Williamson from the graduating class of 1983.

Williamson, the senior executive vice-president and group head, retail and business
banking at CIBC, was joined by friends, family, colleagues and former classmates at the
event

The Wayne C. Fox Distinguished Alumni Award was created to celebrate the success of
the DeGroote School of Business' 16,000 alumni. It recognizes those who have made
significant contributions to enhancing the reputation of both McMaster and the business
school.

“The DeGroote School of Business is proud of our graduates and the difference they
continue to make in the world around them – whether it is creating new business
ventures, managing established enterprises, or through their varied contributions to
society,” said Bob McNutt, the business school's acting dean.

Williamson launched his career at CIBC in 2008 as senior executive vice-president and
chief financial officer. In 2011, he was appointed to his current position, where he is
responsible for CIBC's personal and business banking operations.

After graduating in 1983 and attaining his designation as a chartered accountant,
Williamson worked in the UK and Europe. He then served as president and CEO of
Derlan Industries, executive vice-president and chief financial officer of Clarica Life
Insurance and president and CEO of Atlas Cold Storage.

Williamson offered two pieces of advice for students, young professionals and alumni:
“First, always look for those opportunities that will give you more experience and more
options in the future. Second, and most importantly, value your reputation. It is your
most valuable asset.”

The Evening of Accolades event coincided with the twentieth anniversary of the business
school's naming. University donors and supporters Michael G. DeGroote and Ron Joyce
attended the celebration and offered congratulations to Williamson, who was presented
his award by its inaugural recipient, Wayne C. Fox.

MBA association president Carlos Cabrero recognized the impact Mr. DeGroote has had
on his education.

“I would like to thank him for his amazing support and generosity. As students, we are
deeply honoured to have his name on our School.”