Barbara McConnell Receives the 2026 Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award

bboyce • June 26, 2026

Barbara McConnell Receives the 2026 Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award

WELLINGTON, ON — June 25, 2026 – The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation is proud to announce Barbara McConnell as the recipient of the 2026 Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award (LFDSA).

Barbara was honoured during the Foundation's Annual Meeting held June 25, 2026, at the Royal Canadian Legion in Wellington. The award was presented by former Board Chairperson, Leo Finnegan and Executive Director Shannon Coull in recognition of Barbara's exceptional volunteer leadership, dedication, and service to the Foundation and the future of healthcare in Prince Edward County.

Named in honour of its inaugural recipient, Leo Finnegan, the award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to philanthropy, volunteerism, donor stewardship, and community leadership in support of PECMH Foundation's mission.

Barbara's involvement with the Foundation spans more than a decade. What began as volunteer support with communications and speech writing evolved into a leadership journey that included serving as a strategic advisor, Board Director, Vice Chair, Chairperson, donor, and champion for local healthcare.

A communications professional and founder of McConnell Weaver Strategic Communications, Barbara has an extensive background in strategic planning and implementation. For example, she was instrumental in rolling out and advancing the successful blue box and electronics recycling programs in Ontario and across Canada.

Barbara brought a thoughtful and collaborative approach to governance, strategic planning, and community engagement to the Foundation. Her leadership helped guide the Foundation through a period of significant change, including healthcare system restructuring, the approval and planning of the new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Barbara's contributions to the Foundation extend far beyond any title she has held,” said Coull. “She brought wisdom, strategic insight, and an unwavering commitment to our community. Her leadership helped strengthen our Foundation during some of the most important years in our history, and her impact will continue to be felt for generations through the new hospital project she helped advance.”

Barbara joined the Foundation Board in 2018, became Vice Chairperson shortly thereafter, and assumed the role of Chairperson in 2019. During her tenure, she helped keep the Foundation focused on its mission while navigating unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Colleagues describe her as a thoughtful leader who consistently brought people together around a shared vision for healthcare in Prince Edward County.

“Barbara has a remarkable ability to help people find common ground and move important work forward,” said Peggy Payne, chairperson of the PECMH Foundation Board of Directors. “She led with integrity, generosity, and optimism, always keeping the needs of our hospital and community at the centre of every conversation. We are honoured to recognize her contributions with this award.”

Beyond her work with the Foundation, Barbara has been an active community volunteer. She served as volunteer editor of the South Marysburgh Mirror, helping preserve an important local publication and strengthen community connections. She has also been recognized with both the South Marysburgh Citizenship Medal and the Murray Clapp Citizenship Award for her volunteer service.

“Barbara's leadership and advocacy played an important role in helping move the vision of a new hospital forward,” said Finnegan. “She brought passion, experience, and a deep belief in the importance of local healthcare. Prince Edward County is stronger because of her contributions.”

“I am both moved and honoured to be presented with this award. It was Leo who first got me involved in the work of the hospital foundation, and for that I am grateful. Having the opportunity to make a contribution to advancing health care in our community through the Foundation’s work and the building of this new, great hospital is indeed a hallmark for me,” Barbara said.

The PECMH Foundation extends its sincere congratulations and gratitude to Barbara McConnell for her outstanding service and lasting contribution to healthcare in Prince Edward County.

About the Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award

The Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals whose volunteer leadership, philanthropy, donor stewardship, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation and the health of the community it serves.

About PECMH Foundation

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation raises funds to advance health care for the people of Prince Edward County, including the construction and equipment of a new hospital. For more information or to lend your support, please visit our website at www.pecmhf.ca.

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The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation is proud to recognize the generosity of Brandon and Hailey Pounder, co-owners of Pounder’s Pub & Patio, who hosted the first annual Pounder Polar Plunge on February 1. Held at Pounder’s Pub & Patio in Wellington, the event brought together community members, local hockey teams including the Wellington Dukes and County Royals, and spectators for a fun and meaningful day in support of local causes. Close to 40 participants took the plunge with a $20 entry fee, while attendees enjoyed a community BBQ donated by the County Royals. The event raised $1,000 for the PECMH Foundation’s Back the Build campaign and $1,000 for the Wellington Auxiliary Rescue Association (WARA), supporting both the future of healthcare in Prince Edward County and the vital work of WARA’s volunteer-run marine search and rescue team. “We are incredibly grateful to Brandon and Hailey for their creativity, community spirit, and commitment to making a difference,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “Events like the Pounder Polar Plunge not only raise important funds but also build momentum and awareness for local initiatives that matter deeply.” “We started the Polar Plunge to give back to the community we grew up in and bring people together,” said Brandon Pounder, co-owner of Pounder's Pub & Patio. “The support from local teams and residents was incredible, and we’re excited to grow this into an annual event and continue supporting important local causes.” Over the past six years (2020–2025), Quinte Health has recorded 315 emergency department visits related to water incidents at its four hospitals—an average of approximately 53 visits per year across the region. PECMH alone sees an average of 11 such visits annually. “Even one drowning is one too many,” said David McFaul, WARA supervisor. “Water safety is something we can’t take for granted in our region, and it takes awareness, education, and strong community organizations to keep people safe. The Wellington Auxiliary Rescue Association plays a critical role in protecting residents and visitors on our waterways through their dedicated volunteer efforts.” WARA operates as part of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, responding to emergencies across West Lake and Lake Ontario. With a highly trained, all-volunteer crew, the organization plays a critical role in ensuring safety along approximately 125 kilometres of shoreline and 2,400 square kilometres of water. Its operations rely heavily on community support and fundraising efforts. The PECMH Foundation extends its sincere thanks to Brandon and Hailey of Pounder’s Pub & Patio and everyone who participated in or supported the inaugural Pounder Polar Plunge.