Vancouver — March 2, 2020 — Crowe MacKay LLP is proud to announce Ashley Chana, University of British Columbia business student majoring in accounting, as the 2020 recipient of the Sean Gilbert — Crowe MacKay LLP Memorial Award.
Sean Gilbert was a Chartered Accountant at Crowe MacKay for 25 years. He was a friend to many in the firm and to his clients. Sean was a respected business leader within the accounting industry and in the Vancouver and Surrey community, whom many sought his wise counsel. He lived our core values, always bringing his friendly manner and sense of fairness to the job every day, and naturally leading important internal initiatives for many years.
A passionate ‘old timer hockey player,’ Sean was active in the Vancouver hockey community as a coach for youth teams. In his humour, Sean never failed to remind his friends and colleagues that his former roommate was Steve Yzerman, former Detroit Red Wings centreman, as the two shared a room at the Cranbook hospital where they were both born.
On March 15, 2012, Sean passed away from esophageal cancer at 46 years young. In memory of Sean’s spirit and passion for accounting, sports, and the arts, the firm created the Sean Gilbert — Crowe MacKay LLP Memorial Award. A gift of $40,000 was donated by family, friends, colleagues, and supported by the Chartered Professional Accountants’ of British Columbia Education Foundation, creating the endowment known as the “Gilbert Fund.”
“Together we have created a lasting legacy that reflects Sean’s giving nature and pride in education and the profession,” says Julie Gilbert, Sean’s widow, as she reflects on his lasting memory.
Hugh Livingstone, Crowe MacKay Partner, remembers Sean as a man who was “wise beyond his years” and who “guided many clients and staff through challenging times.”
Sean Gilbert left a lasting impression on Crowe MacKay that goes deeper than business. He brought character to his work and created lasting relationships with those around him, both with colleagues and clients. “Sean’s life was cut way too short, but he left a positive impact on all who knew him,” reflects Hugh.
Through the Gilbert Fund, an award of $3,600 is granted to a University of British Columbia (UBC) third or fourth year student majoring in accounting at the Sauder School of Business, with plans to pursue their Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. The candidate must be in strong academic standing, a leader amongst their peers, and a proven athlete or artist.
From left to right: Hugh Livingstone, Crowe MacKay Partner; Julie Gilbert, Sean Gilbert’s widow; Ashley Chana, scholarship recipient; Stephanie Mocherniak, Associate Director, Development & Alumni Engagement at UBC; and York Wong, Crowe MacKay Partner, celebrate the award at an annual luncheon.
About Crowe MacKay LLP
Serving Northern and Western Canada for over 50 years, Crowe MacKay LLP is one of the leading accounting and advisory firms in the country. With a team of 400 across eight offices, we are a vibrant team of trusted advisors. We believe strong relationships are the cornerstone to success and strive to create innovative solutions for our clients in both private and public sectors. We have a passion for quality in the services we deliver to our community and clients from a wide range of industries. A firm focused on people first, Crowe MacKay’s corporate culture is built on maximizing potential for clients and staff. Our belief is that we are truly our best when we invest in our people and communities. Committed to showing we care about the people we serve through our work and actions, we strive to make a difference in the regions we serve.
About Crowe Global
Ranked the eighth largest accounting network in the world, Crowe Global has over 200 independent accounting and advisory firms in 130 countries. For over 100 years, Crowe has made smart decisions for multinational clients working across borders. Our leaders work with governments, regulatory bodies, and industry groups to shape the future of the profession worldwide. Their exceptional knowledge of business, local laws, and customs provide lasting value to clients undertaking international projects. At Crowe, the professionals all share one commitment, to deliver excellence.