The Newfoundland and Labrador Regional Economic Development Association (NLREDA) announced the winners of its annual Community Economic Development Awards recently.

These awards celebrate the spirit and the accomplishments of individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution to the economic development of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Dr. James Tuck, professor emeritus in the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, received the NLREDA-Leslie Harris Award for Excellence by Memorial University Faculty, Staff and Students in Regional Development. This award recognizes an individual or group of faculty, staff and/or students from Memorial for their contribution to linking teaching and research to the needs of communities and organizations working to advance rural and regional development, responsiveness in addressing requests for assistance from community partners, and advancing the knowledge mobilization capacity of Memorial and/or the community to enhance university/community collaboration.

Two members of the Harris Centre Advisory Board also received awards. Harold Mulowney of the Irish Loop Regional Economic Development Board was presented with the Award for Excellence in Partnerships Excellence in Partnerships. This award recognizes exceptional efforts and achievements in organizations partnering to achieve positive results in economic development. Partnerships can include the community, private enterprise, and/or economic development organizations/agencies. In addition, Jerry Byrne received the Award for Outstanding Private Sector Contribution to Regional Economic Development which recognizes an individual or business that has demonstrated a strong commitment to regional economic development and a willingness to engage with community to develop local solutions to economic challenges.

The awards were presented by Dave Denine and Randy Simms at a special awards luncheon held in St. John’s on Nov. 7.