The Kelowna Chamber’s Top 40 Program has returned for 2024. The program recognizes and honours individuals in the community who take leadership, philanthropy, and business to the next level.
Honouree: Dr. Cassidy Biener
Child and Youth Advocacy Centre of Kelowna
“Ultimately, research and evaluation are indispensable in advancing our collective efforts to create safer environments for children, providing them with the protection and care they deserve.”
Dr. Cassidy Biener works with the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) of Kelowna. She holds a PhD (Psychological Science) from UCBO, with a double major in psychology and minor in sociology. Originally from Edmonton, Cassidy has a deep passion for advocacy particularly for those who cannot speak for themselves. Her philosophy emphasizes the integration of research and practice, ensuring their work is ethically and theoretically sound while directly applicable to real-world scenarios. In her work, Cassidy partners with other community organizations to drive systematic change.
Her collaboration with the CYAC and Kelowna RCMP has resulted in two publications in high- impact journals. Cassidy has carried out research in intimate partner violence, bullying and dating violence in youth, and substance prevention. She is a qualified expert trainer for the Preventure program in BC and is currently leading a new program at the CYAC where she is Director of Research and Evaluation. Through this program work they aim to deepen understandings of the complex issues surrounding child abuse and neglect.
Honouree: Colin Kirkpatrick
Crowe MacKay LLP
“Why be angry when happiness is free for all, reach out and take some.”
Colin Kirkpatrick is a Partner at Crowe MacKay LLP as of January 2024, where he has worked since 2011. He holds a BBA (Accounting Specialty) and a Chartered Accountant Designation (CPA, CA). Colin has been part of their mentor program, supporting students during their summers when studying for the annual CPA exam, and enjoys training CPA students and managers to help them develop into strong professionals as they advance toward their career goals.
Colin’s most memorable achievement in his career has been obtaining his professional designation and mentoring others. The years mentoring students through their CPA studying journey has formed memorable moments that will count as highlights for years to come, and it has been a privilege to watch them succeed.
In working with Crowe MacKay, Colin has led fundraising efforts for several community teams in the office – including CAN Canucks Autism Network Bike Ride, CHA Charity Ride, and Motionball Marathon of Sports. He has volunteered for several years as a Board member with Project Literacy Central Okanagan Society, increasing their reach into surrounding communities. Colin helped grow the scope of programs offered, including One-to-One literacy tutor programs in elementary schools.