2008 WCFN Excellence Awards Ceremony
Presented at the WCFN 10th Annual Conference, Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, Winnipeg, MB - November 24, 2008
The 2008 Excellence Awards will be presented during the WCFN 10th Annual Conference in Winnipeg, MB, November 24, 2008 at the Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals during the reception. The evening reception also includes the launching of AFMNet's "Be a Researcher For a Week" Aboriginal Scholarship Initiative, as well as a site tour of the research and development facilities, capped off with a special presentation by the 2008 Beijing Olympic Gold Medalist - Carol Huynh.
WCFN 2008 Excellence Award Recipients
- WCFN Industry Builder Award – Kelley Fitzpatrick, Winnipeg, MB
- WCFN Innovation Award – Solo GI Nutrition, Edmonton, AB
- WCFN Chair’s Award - Manitoba Food Processors Association (MFPA), Winnipeg, MB
- WCFN Chair’s Award - Advanced Foods and Materials Network (AFMNet), Guelph, ON
Click here to download Information on WCFN Excellence Awards 2008.
Click here to download Press Release information 2008.
2007 WCFN Excellence Awards Ceremony
Presented at the WCFN 9th Annual Conference, Vancouver Airport Mariott Hotel, Richmond, BC - November 17, 2007

The WCFN Innovation Award recognizes the demonstrated success or leadership of an outstanding WCFN individual or corporate member for innovation in either research & development or implementation of new technology or value-added products or services.

Rarely do we see an individual so passionate, involved and accomplished in their work and always willing to do more. Jerzy’s curriculum vitae is outstanding and he has been an ambassador for the FFNHP sector in Canada. Jerzy sits on numerous Canadian and International committees and has over 60 scientific publications in the area of functional food research and has inventorship of 12 patents. Jerzy has developed over 20 functional food prototypes, helped to introduce over a dozen functional food products in the EU market, initiated and established a research discovery program in the area of cardiovascular health, obesity and diabetes for Forbes Medi-tech Inc. and was awarded the 2004 World Merit Award for outstanding contributions and services to the field of nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, and functional food ingredients at the International Conference and Exhibition on Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods.

The WCFN Industry Builder Award recognizes the efforts of a WCFN individual or corporate member who has significantly contributed to the continued development of the FFNHP sector as a recognized and respected industry in Western Canada through either policy development, corporate initiatives, industry advisory or advocacy efforts.

Maureen’s strong collaborative and cooperative Leadership over the past 10 years has seen her become a true champion for the FFNHP industry. As a co-founder of the BCFN, Maureen is a key reason why the WCFN exists as it does today. She was an important partner in the conceptualization, creation, and implementation of the BCFN and worked to secure an office for BCFN at UBC while promoting the BCFN and the industry to the Dean of Agriculture at UBC. Her promotion of key partnerships with organizations such as Wellness West and BioAccess has amplified the WCFN’s position within the FFNHP sector. Those who work with Maureen are quick to acknowledge her passion for her work and her caring and humble demeanor.

The WCFN Chair’s Award recognizes the outstanding achievements of an individual or organization or significant contributions to the WCFN.
Key Contact: Dr. Ann Eastman
BCMAL was the Charter Sustaining Partner with the WCFN and has provided the FFNHP sector with significant support over the years. Through the Sustaining Partners Program BCMAL has created the framework from which other organizations can follow who share our vision for the industry; value the strength that comes from collective efforts and support the WCFN as a champion for the industry.

Key Contact: Mr. Ross Bricker
AVAC Ltd was the first Sustaining Partner in Western Canada located outside of BC. AVAC Ltd.’s investment in the WCFN and belief in our vision and values was instrumental in strategically leveraging the Sustaining Partners Program to secure new partners from other provinces. The continued support and investment by organizations like AVAC Ltd. will help ensure the long term success and sustainability of the WCFN’s programs and services.


Kim has steadfastly served on the BCFN/WCFN Board of Directors for the past three years of which he Chaired for two and was instrumental in leading the vision of building the WCFN from conceptualization and through to implementation of where the WCFN is today. Kim helped ensure a seamless transition through this process as Past Chair during a changeover of six new board members, staff, Chair, and operational scope & corporate objectives.
WCFN Honourary Lifetime Induction Ceremony
Vancouver Airport Marriott
November 15, 2007
The WCFN hereby announces following group of distinguished visionaries and leaders, the designation of Honourary Lifetime WCFN Members for their participation on the first incorporated Board of Directors of the BCFN.
2000/01 BCFN Charter Board of Directors
- Ms. Theresa Almonte
- Dr. Gerry Amantea
- Dr. Ann Eastman
- Dr. Tom Gordon
- Dr. David Kitts (Chair of First AGM)
- Dr. Michael ZC Li
- Ms. Nancy Ross
- Ms. Victoria Tai
- Dr. Jerzy Zawistowski (First Chair of Board)
Keynote Speakers:
Ms. Maureen Hatanaka, Co-Founder of BCFN
Dr. Derek Porter, Two-Time Olympic Medalist, Rowing
Ceremony Sponsor:
