George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
George Brown Polytechnic is celebrating the outstanding achievement of Social Service Worker student Jared Floirendo, who has been named the 2026 Social Service Worker Student of the Year by the Ontario Social Service Worker Association (OSSWA). The highly regarded annual award recognizes exemplary students across Ontario who demonstrate academic excellence and a deep commitment to the values and principles of social service work.
Floirendo received official notification of the honour in a congratulatory message from the OSSWA, marking a significant milestone in his academic and professional journey in the Social Service Worker program at George Brown. The award is regarded as one of the most prestigious student recognitions in the field, highlighting emerging professionals who are poised to make meaningful contributions to individuals, families, and communities across the province.
Recognition from Ontario’s professional association
In his message to Floirendo, OSSWA Chief Executive Officer and President Matthew Carrol praised the qualities that led to the selection, highlighting both academic achievement and values‑driven practice.
“This achievement is a testament to Jared’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the values that underpin social service work. His efforts reflect not only academic excellence but also a deep commitment to supporting individuals, families, and communities in meaningful and impactful ways.”
The OSSWA Social Service Worker Student of the Year Award is presented annually to a student member currently pursuing a diploma in social service work at an approved post‑secondary institution. Recipients are selected through a province‑wide nomination process involving faculty, staff, and placement supervisors.
Reflecting on the honour, Floirendo emphasized the collective spirit of the social service work community.
“While my name is on this award, I accept it on behalf of my peers and colleagues. This recognition reflects the resilience, lived experience, and shared commitment we bring to social service work—and it motivates us to keep building stronger, more equitable communities together.”
Celebrating excellence at George Brown
Floirendo’s recognition reflects the strength of George Brown’s Social Service Worker program and its focus on preparing students for compassionate, ethical, and impactful careers.
That strength is rooted in faculty dedication and the program’s long-standing commitment to preparing future social service professionals, said Susan Toews, Dean of the Faculty of Community Services and Interdisciplinary Studies.
“We are so proud of George Brown’s wonderful Social Service Worker program and the dedication of the amazing faculty who are committed to educating and mentoring the social service workers of tomorrow.”
“Choosing George Brown was an obvious choice for me,” said Floirendo. “The Social Service Worker program is a leader in inspiring agents of change, with a strong focus on real‑world experience and teaching staff whose expertise truly reflects the realities and complexities of the communities we serve.”
Leaders across the institution echo this pride in Floirendo’s achievement. Dr. Morris Anthony Beckford, Associate Dean of the School of Social and Community Services and the School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies, congratulated Floirendo on this significant recognition.
“To be recognized as Student of the Year is no small achievement,” said Beckford. “I congratulate Jared on this momentous occasion and wish Jared continued success in the years to come.”
William Woolrich, a Social Service Worker professor who nominated Floirendo, highlighted his contributions both academically and in the classroom.
“I am thrilled that Jared has won the 2026 SSW Student Award of the Year. Not only is he exceptionally knowledgeable in the course content, but he was a deeply valued participant in the classroom. His presence is an exemplary example of the high calibre of student featured in the Social Service Work program, and this acknowledgement of his contributions to the George Brown community is truly well‑deserved.”
Advancing equity, compassion, and community impact
Floirendo’s achievement also speaks to the broader impact of social service work across Ontario. Social service workers are often on the front lines, supporting individuals through moments of transition, challenge, and change, while helping strengthen the health and resilience of communities.
By recognizing emerging professionals like Floirendo, the Ontario Social Service Worker Association shines a light on the vital, values‑driven work that supports individuals and families across the province. As he continues his career journey, Floirendo represents a new generation of social service workers whose compassion, integrity, and leadership will help shape more equitable and inclusive communities for years to come.
Explore the Social Service Worker program at George Brown and be the change you want to see.