COLLINGWOOD, ON – September 2025 — The Durham Region Home Builders’ Association (DRHBA) is proud to announce that Executive Officer Stacey Hawkins has been awarded the Association Leadership Award – Honouring the Legacy of David Horton at the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA) Conference held in Collingwood at the end of September.
This prestigious provincial award recognizes an Executive Officer or association staff member who has demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to strengthening their local association and advancing the broader OHBA network.
“Sincere congratulations to Stacey on this prestigious award,” says Peter Saturno, owner of Midhaven Homes. “But am I surprised? No. Stacey jumped into and embraced the role of Executive Officer from day one. She met our industry challenges intelligently, representing DRHBA with vigor and passion. Proud to call her a colleague and friend — but again, not surprised.”
Stacey was nominated for the honour by OHBA staff, who praised her as a dedicated and inspiring leader.
“Stacey Hawkins has been an exceptional leader, advocate, and champion for the Durham Region Home Builders’ Association and the broader industry,” reads the nomination. “Her dedication to the association movement is matched only by the creativity and passion she brings to every project. Stacey doesn’t just do the job — she elevates it. That extra ‘Stacey-touch’ is what sets her apart.”
Since joining the DRHBA eight years ago, Stacey has led the association through a period of significant growth and transformation. She has worked hard alongside members to tremendously improve the association’s advocacy efforts, ensuring that DRHBA’s voice is heard at every level of government.
“The DRHBA has come a long way in recent years, evolving from a builder-focused organization into a strong advocate for every discipline within the housing industry, from builders to land developers and beyond,” says Dave Murphy, Second Vice-President of the DRHBA Board. “Stacey has been a key driver of this progress. Her leadership has strengthened our government relations, expanded our voice at both the local and provincial levels, and created opportunities for members to connect and collaborate. Thanks to her vision and commitment, the Association is stronger than ever and well-positioned to shape the future of housing in Durham Region.”
Believing that collaboration with local municipalities is the best way forward, Stacey has worked tirelessly to create and maintain strong, positive relationships with municipal staff and politicians alike. Her commitment to partnership has strengthened DRHBA’s government relations and positioned the association as a trusted and respected voice across Durham Region and beyond.
“I was very happy to see that Stacey has finally received the recognition she deserves with this award,” says Tiago Do Couto, Chair of the DRHBA Government Relations Committee and Director of Land Development for Minto Group. “She came to DRHBA at a time when change was needed to make the association more effective for members. Stacey jumped right in, learned the industry, and worked tirelessly to make the association successful. She’s never been afraid to speak her mind, and her personality has been an asset in fostering relationships with municipal and political staff. She’s truly an asset to DRHBA and our membership. Congratulations, Stacey.”
Beyond advocacy, Stacey has reimagined how DRHBA connects its members. She recreated the Association’s events, turning them into must-attend gatherings within the local industry. Members now enjoy outside-the-box experiences that combine professional networking with genuine fun — from axe throwing to Connect 4 tournaments. Her refresh of DRHBA’s member events has reinvigorated participation, creating innovative ways for members to connect, collaborate, and celebrate together.
“Congratulations to Stacey on being recognized by the OHBA for her exceptional leadership,” adds Shannon Hunt, President of DRHBA and Senior Environmental Consultant at GEMTEC. “We’re incredibly fortunate at DRHBA to have Stacey’s unwavering support. Her commitment to our members — both collectively and individually — is unmatched. Her ability to amplify our members’ voices through meaningful relationships with local and provincial leaders is truly inspiring. Thank you, Stacey, for everything you do!”
Regional and municipal leaders also shared their praise for Stacey’s ongoing contributions to collaboration and community-building across Durham.
“Stacey has played a valuable role in supporting the home building industry,” says John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO for The Regional Municipality of Durham. “Her commitment to collaboration and community-building is reflected in the strong partnerships she’s helped foster. This recognition is well-deserved.”
“I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Stacey Hawkins for many years, and her passion, professionalism, and collaborative spirit have always stood out,” says Elizabeth Roy, Mayor of Whitby. “Stacey is a strong advocate for responsible growth, working closely with municipalities like ours to build strong, complete communities across Durham Region. Her leadership has strengthened the DRHBA and made a meaningful impact on the broader industry throughout Ontario. This recognition is well-deserved, and I’m incredibly proud to see her contributions honoured at the provincial level.”
“As Mayor of Clarington, I’m happy that you are recognizing Stacey for her outstanding service,” says Adrian Foster, Mayor of Clarington. “She has been a steadfast advocate for the building industry in Durham and greets her duties with both professionalism and friendliness, always building collaboration and relationships. Her work is worthy of note. Stacey, for all that you do, our thanks.”
“Clarington is a growing and vibrant community, and we’re fortunate to have forward-thinking leaders like Stacey working alongside us to advance our shared goals,” adds Darryl Lyons, Deputy CAO of Planning and Infrastructure for the Municipality of Clarington. “Her support has been instrumental in increasing collaboration with the municipality and championing transformative initiatives that will modernize and streamline Clarington’s development process — not just to increase housing supply and affordability, but to foster economic growth and build complete, sustainable communities. Congratulations, Stacey, on this well-deserved recognition.”
As the DRHBA continues to advocate for housing, growth, and innovation across Durham Region, Stacey’s leadership continues to inspire and strengthen the organization — ensuring it remains a vibrant, connected, and forward-thinking community for all its members.
“I am truly honoured to receive this award. The only reason I am even qualified to win something like this is because of the outstanding mentorship and support I have received throughout the years. I have had the privilege of learning from giants in the industry — some through direct mentorship and others
simply by observing and taking notes from those I admire,” says Stacey. “Some mentors took an active interest in helping me learn and grow, while others gave me the freedom to explore new ideas. Some taught me how to use my voice; others helped me refine it. A heartfelt thank you to Peter Saturno, Tiago Do Couto, Emidio DiPalo, Louise Foster, Ashley MacInnis Murdoch, Paula Tenuta, and the many others who have taught and guided me along the way. All of these people have made me better – both professionally and personally. I am deeply grateful for the lessons, encouragement, and opportunities they’ve shared.”
