FERGUS – St. Joseph Catholic School principal Todd Goodwin has been selected by the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario (CPCO) as one of the recipients of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award.
He will receive his award on April 19 at a gala dinner and awards ceremony.
Given only to two principals per year, the award recognizes distinguished service to the membership of CPCO.
“It was a surprise for me. I did not expect to get this award,” said Goodwin.
“I was humbled and just really taken aback.”
Goodwin has been a principal for 11 years after serving as a vice principal for about six years.
His first principal position was at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Guelph, before he moved on to serve as principal at St. Joseph’s.
“I always had aspirations because I’ve always wanted to be a different speaker trying to make a difference for kids,” he said.
Prior to becoming a vice principal and principal, Goodwin taught Grade 6, then moved on to a high school special education role.
He said he would not be where he is today without the influence of all the teachers, educational assistants, early childhood educators, secretaries and custodians he has met along the way.
“They’re all part of what I’ve learned and everything that I encompass,” he said.
“I have a deep, deep gratitude [and] also deep thanks for the influences around me that have allowed me to endure and take on a leadership role and be able to call it a vocation.”
Support to colleagues
“Todd was nominated this year for distinguished service, and it’s very fitting because he does provide a ton of support to his colleagues, not just locally, but provincially,” said CPCO president Mike MacPherson.
“I think the recognition [and] the timing is perfect. He’s an extraordinary principal, well represented by his colleagues and I think loved by his community.”
The CPCO president added Goodwin is accessible to parents, spends a lot of time with staff and students and is dedicated to his profession.
“He’s a great guy and I’m proud that I’m one of his colleagues.
“It’s nice to see that someone from Wellington [County] will be recognized,” said MacPherson.
