St. John’s, NL, Monday, December 12th, 2016, Junior Achievement (JA) of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to announce the 2017 JA Business Hall of Fame inductees. These outstanding business leaders will be recognized at the May 18th, 2017 Gala Dinner and Induction Ceremony at the St. John’s Convention Centre:
- Paul Antle, CEO, Pluto Investments Inc.
- Gloria Parsons, President & CEO, Chancellor Park Inc.
- John Patten, President, Browning Harvey Inc.
Since 1990, Junior Achievement has recognized and honoured entrepreneurs who have inspired others through their investment and success in business and community. In addition to celebrating business excellence, the Business Hall of Fame event is JA’s signature fundraiser, supporting work that focuses on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship for youth.
Background Information – JA Newfoundland and Labrador Business Hall of Fame inductees
Paul Antle. In the late 1980’s with a master’s degree in engineering and no money, Paul started his first business venture in his mom’s basement brokering hazardous waste disposal services. He later helped pioneer environmental industries in the province, eventually developing and exporting environmental technology to 4 continents. Today, he is president and CEO of Pluto Investments Inc. Pluto’s acquisitions include the St. John’s Dockyard (Newdoc) and Humber Motors Ltd. Paul is a community builder and has been widely recognized for his entrepreneurial pursuits.
Gloria Parsons. In 1972 at the age of 26 with only a grade 11 education, Gloria decided to enter the construction industry. Using the $1,000 in her savings, she financed her first three residential projects by pre-selling. Gloria turned this venture into a major construction company and during its time in operation, the Parsons Group of Companies built single family homes, townhouses, apartments, condominiums and subdivision developments. In the early 1990’s, she created Chancellor Park, a 165 bed long-term care home in St. John’s and today serves as its President & CEO. Gloria has broken many stereotypes and has received much recognition for her accomplishments while quietly supporting her community.
John Patten. In 1978, John graduated from university and began working in the family business, Browning Harvey Ltd. In 2005 he was appointed President. John had a vision of growth for Browning Harvey, never hesitating to invest in plant infrastructure, facilities and technology. Recently, the company has had a 23 percent increase in product offerings, and to adapt to the changing market place, John acquired the exclusive distribution rights for the sale and distribution of Labatt products in central Newfoundland. John supports many charities and has been recognized locally and nationally for his leadership.
These individuals are being recognized for their excellence in business leadership, outstanding professional achievements and enduring contributions to society. They are all role models for youth, the next generation of leaders.
For more information on Junior Achievement and the JA Business Hall of Fame contact Sandra Patterson, president & CEO, at spatterson@janl.org or 753-9533.