Gloria Parsons
In 1972 at the age of 26 and with a grade 11 education, Gloria entered the construction industry in central Newfoundland. Using the $1,000 in her savings, she financed her first three residential housing projects by pre-selling. Gloria turned this venture into a construction company and during its time in operation, the Parsons Group of Companies built single family homes, townhouses, apartments, condominiums and subdivision developments. She also owned and operated a building supply store.
In the early 1990’s, she merged her interests in design, construction and seniors care and created Chancellor Park, a 165-bed, long-term care home.
Recognizing the value of intergenerational relationships, Gloria designed Chancellor Park to include a daycare facility. Today, Chancellor Park and Oak Trees and Acorns Child Care Centre employ approximately 170 people. Gloria serves as its president & CEO. Several of Gloria’s children work in the business.
Gloria’s recognitions include: The University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Business - Lifetime Achievement Award; Atlantic Business Magazine Top 50 CEO’s; and the University of Western Ontario Richard Ivy School of Business one of Canada’s 100 most powerful women . Gloria quietly and generously supports her community and individuals in need.
“Gloria has broken all of the stereotypes. She was a woman, a single parent living in a rural community, she had only a high school education and was not independently wealthy. Yet, she has persevered and come out on top.” nominator