George Gilvesy has been awarded the Fruit & Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) Doug Connery Award. This award recognizes outstanding passion, commitment, and dedication to advancing the interests of Canada’s horticultural sector. The recipients of the Doug Connery Award are evaluated based on seven categories that have been achieved through the course of their career. These categories include exemplary accomplishments in the areas of: innovative contributions, national impact, provincial impact, local/regional impact, international impact, service to horticulture, and lasting impression.

George Gilvesy, former chair of Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG), exemplifies the attributes to be recognized for the FVGC Doug Connery Award through his continued dedication and contributions, advocating on behalf of fruit and vegetable growers through leadership and implementing initiatives that enhance the lives of Ontarians through the distribution of fresh produce. 

“During his tenure, George was instrumental in advancing the greenhouse sector through his strategic vision and devotion, fostering collaboration within the sector at all three levels of government,” said Rick Mastronardi, OGVG vice chair.

George has played a key role in devising and implementing innovative strategies to tackle the sector’s unique challenges, including navigating complex regulations and ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of OGVG's members, both locally and internationally.

“George has been instrumental in developing and implementing innovative strategies to address the unique challenges faced by the greenhouse sector, from navigating complex regulatory frameworks to ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of our members,” said Kevin Safrance, OGVG vice chair District 2.

George positioned the Canadian greenhouse vegetable sector as a recognized leader in sustainable agriculture driven by the membership's commitment to excellence, demonstrated in the responsible stewardship of people and the planet, and has been unified by a tireless pursuit of innovation, competitiveness, and growth.

Source:  Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers March 13, 2025 news release