Don Cunnings

Personal

  • Long-time Coquitlam resident
  • A City of Coquitlam employee from 1955 to his retirement in 1994, rising from Recreation Director to Director of Parks and Leisure Services
  • A guest speaker, lecturer and writer on recreation, emergency preparedness and other topics

Community Service & Achievements

Volunteering

  • Served on the board of the Coquitlam Heritage Society from 2009 to 2014
  • Served as President of the board for the Douglas College Centre for Sport, Recreation and Wellness Society from 2005 to 2007
  • Appointed in 1997 as Vice-president of the Douglas College Foundation Board
  • Appointed in 1995 as Voluntary Community Relations Director for the Eagle Ridge Hospital
  • Created and directed Coquitlam’s first Search and Rescue team in 1973
  • Elected in 1964 as Vice-president to the Canadian Association of Physical Education, Health Education and Recreation
  • Helped found the British Columbia Recreation Association in 1958 and being elected as President in 1963 and 1964

Awards & Recognition

  • Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (conferred by Premier Christy Clark) - 2012
  • BC Recreation and Parks Association, Honourary Life Member - 2008
  • Namesake for Cunnings Field (selected by City of Coquitlam, Douglas College and School District 43) - 1999
  • Coquitlam Search and Rescue, Outstanding Service Award - 1998
  • BC Recreation and Park Association, Award of Merit - 1992
  • BC Summer Games, Outstanding Volunteer Award - 1991
  • District of Coquitlam Chamber of Commerce, Good Citizen of the Year - 1962