I had the pleasure of attending a gala dinner in honor of one of Canada’s most generous philanthropists. I met Jim Fleck at the Canadian Arts Summit in Banff a few months ago, and was immediately struck by how down to earth and kind he was, and how much he truly cared about the Arts.

I have to tell you, every time I think that I’M too busy I always think about Jim, the man is a modern day renaissance man. His list of accomplishments is awe-inspiring - and exhausting. Below is only a highlight I would highly recommend reading it, it’s inspiring!

Jim Fleck has been an extraordinary business, government and voluntary sector leader, academic, and philanthropist. He has pioneered so many splendid initiatives that it’s hard to count them all. Imagine, no Power Plant, no Fleck Atrium at the Rotman School of Management, no Music Garden, no Fleck Marquee at Stratford, no Fleck Fellows at the Banff Centre and I could go on and on. He is truly a renaissance man. Indeed, few Canadians have given so much, over so many years, in such bold new ways, to such profoundly beneficial effect. So the time has come to honour our great friend, benefactor and colleague.

The evening had several benificiaries including LOFT Community Services, National Ballet of Canada, Joseph L. Rotman &  Soulpepper Theatre Company. Jim is the Chairman of  Business for the Arts, an organization that is run by my good friend Nichole Anderson. If you’re a young professional who is interested in connecting with others who enjoy the arts, check out Artscene.

Congratulations Jim on your accomplishments!  As someone said last night: The world needs more Jim Flecks. I couldn’t agree more.