Bob Dagenais as a teacher and—later on in his career—as a principal was dedicated to his profession, always taking extra courses to improve upon his craft. He taught French in many schools in Ottawa including Immaculata, Nepean, Fisher, and Glebe and was so beloved by his students at Glebe that they once staged a walkout to protest his reassignment to another school. This memorial fund is awarded annually to students in support of their academic efforts. Bob was understanding and patient and had an art for guiding students in such a way that they didn’t always realize that they were being guided. He had a great sense of humour and knew how to laugh at himself. Bob was married to his high school sweetheart, Bonnie Barr, for more than 30 years until their tragic deaths in 2002.
This award, along with the Bob and Bonnie Dagenais Memorial Fund, recognizes their commitment to the next generations through teaching.