TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 01/30/13 --

Editors note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

Sheldon Levy, president and vice chancellor, Ryerson University, is the2012-13 recipient of the CPRS Toronto CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations. This year marks the 20th time the award has been presented and the special celebration luncheon took place at Arcadian Court in Toronto.

During his distinguished career, Levy has been recognized for championing an entrepreneurial academic model including the recent international success of Ryerson's Digital Media Zone and Centre for Urban Energy. He is dedicated to student success, distinctive academic programs and research, and advancing the university role as city-builder. He was awarded a BSc, MA, and Doctor of Laws honoris causa by York University, and lectured in computer science and mathematics.

"The Yonge and Dundas neighbourhood has a renewed sense of vibrancy thanks to Sheldon Levy's leadership and vision for Ryerson University," says CEO Award Chair Martin Waxman, APR. "Ryerson exemplifies the essence of Toronto with its diverse population, seamless integration of old and new and commitment to enhancing the urban landscape. And at the heart of that is Levy's ability to communicate, inspire and engage the community at large to help bring it all to life."

"This award is a reflection of the hard work, energy and passion of the entire Ryerson community," says Levy. "Ryerson is filled with bright and talented young innovators and entrepreneurs and it's a privilege to play whatever role I can in helping to tell their stories. I am truly honoured to accept this award on behalf of the students, faculty, staff and alumni of Ryerson."

First created in 1991, the annual CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations has recognized a chief executive officer who is committed to being an outstanding communicator and who clearly and consistently articulates the organization's shared mission, vision and values with a broad range of stakeholders to achieve its business goals.

The selection committee for the CPRS Toronto Award is made up of past local and national CPRS presidents, all of whom are accredited Public Relations professionals.

CEO Award Recipients are:

--  Dr. Robert S. Bell, CEO of the University Health Network (2011-2012) 
--  Jim Leech, CEO of Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (2010-2011) 
--  Robert Deluce, President and CEO, Porter Airlines (2009-2010) 
--  Galen G. Weston, Executive Chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited (2008-
    2009) 
--  Frances Lankin, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Toronto (2007-
    2008) 
--  The late Richard Bradshaw, General Director, Canadian Opera Company
    (2006-2007) 
--  Michael Budman and Don Green, Co-founders, Roots Canada (2005-2006) 
--  Wayne Sales, President and CEO, Canadian Tire (2004-2005) 
--  Piers Handling, CEO, Toronto International Film Festival (2003-2004) 
--  Julian Fantino, Police Chief, Toronto Police Service (2002-2003) 
--  Charles Baillie, Chair, TD Bank Financial Group (2001-2002) 
--  Dominic D'Alessandro, President and CEO, Manulife Financial (2000-2001) 
--  Bobbie Gaunt, President and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Canada (1999-
    2000) 
--  Diane McGarry, President and CEO, Xerox Canada Inc. (1998-1999) 
--  Allan Stark, President and CEO, American Express Company Canada (1997-
    1998) 
--  George Cohon, President and CEO, McDonald's Restaurants of Canada (1996-
    1997) 
--  John Cassaday, President and CEO, CTV (1995-1996) 
--  David Bloom, President and CEO, Shoppers Drug Mart (1992-1993) 
--  Peter H. Ellis, President and CEO, Sunnybrook Medical Centre (1991-1992)

The Canadian Public Relations Society is a national professional organization focused on establishing and upholding educational and ethical standards in Public Relations. CPRS Toronto is one of the largest local societies with nearly 600 members. For more information, please visit: www.cprstoronto.com.

Special thanks to our sponsors

2012-13 CEO Award of Excellence in Public Relations.

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