Many speakers have expertise in one or two subject matters such as disabilities, accessibilities, inclusion and special education. However, few can claim hands-on life experience in all four. John has that expertise.
John Hendry is not a "technical expert" when it comes to disabilities. Rather, his expertise has been developed over many years of hands-on experience, a result of his youngest son being born with cerebral palsy.
John is an author and professional speaker, a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers. He has published three books, and one second edition. The books focus on overcoming the challenges of disability, finding your own level of success and the strong belief that you should never allow anyone determine who you are or who can be. All is speaking engagements and presentations are based on his books. They present real struggles and challenges with real solutions and suggestions providing hope to families living with a disability and a blueprint for teachers and professionals.
As stated by the organizer of the Pacific Rim International Conference on Diversity & Disabilities "This is a man who has a fierce passion for justice. A man who elucidates both the problems and solutions of issues that create barriers for human beings, a man whose rich tapestry of personal and professional experience humbles us all on what is possible to right the wrongs in the world."
He was an award-winning public school board trustee for more than thirty years, his reputation as a strong experienced advocate earned him two Cabinet Appointments from the Province of Ontario. John is well recognized for his public service and commitment to making the world a more accessible, inclusive place for everyone.
His writing has appeared in national disability magazines, international sports magazines and newspapers.
A Lifetime of Service
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Served in the Royal Canadian Navy as an aircraft engine mechanic​
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Thirty years as an elected public school board trustee
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Awarded the most prestigious award for a public school board trustee in the Province of Ontario - the Dr. Harry Paikin Award of Merit
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Awarded the President's Award by the Ontario Public School Boards Association for thirty years of commitment to public education
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Cabinet Appointment - Minister's Advisory Council on Special Education
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Cabinet Appointment - Accessibility Standards Council of Ontario
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Twenty-five years service as a Director - Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club, currently an Honorary Director
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Past member of the Rotary Clubs of Kitchener and Waterloo
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Member - Canadian Association of Professional Speakers
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Member - Navy League of Canada
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Member - U.S. Naval Institute
Education
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Bachelor of Arts, Wilfrid Laurier University
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Diploma, Business Administration - Wilfrid Laurier University
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Communication - University of Washington
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Speaking & Communication - Rochester University
"John is Presented With
The Ontario Public School
Boards Association
Dr. Harry Paiken
Award of Merit"
"John with Canadian
Senator (Marty) Deacon
at a school board function."
"John Receiving the President's Award"
for 30 years commitment to public education."