Quinte West’s Deputy Fire Chief Rick Caddick – also a long-time familiar Brighton face – is one of several area leaders who will receive an honorary diploma at Loyalist College’s convocation ceremonies later this year.
Loyalist College recently announced seven remarkable individuals serving as industry and community leaders will receive honorary diplomas at the college’s 57th convocation ceremonies taking place this year from June 4 to 7.
Before serving Quinte West, Caddick long served with the Brighton Fire Department – including as chief and deputy chief – and before his time in Brighton, served with the Township of Stirling-Rawdon.
“I am excited to be receiving an honorary diploma as one of Loyalist College’s industry and community leaders,” said Caddick. “It’s a privilege to serve in an inclusive and engaged community and I am proud to accept this prestigious award.”
The City of Quinte West has also praised Caddick, noting this honour is in recognition of “his outstanding achievements and impact in the community.”
“On behalf of Quinte West Fire and Emergency Services and the City of Quinte West, we are thrilled that Deputy Chief Caddick is being honoured by Loyalist College,” said fire Chief John Whelan, adding Caddick’s knowledge, experience and expertise are an integral part of the fire and emergency services team.
Caddick also currently serves as the mutual aid co-ordinator for Hastings and Prince Edward counties, as the local regional training centre co-ordinator, and as a sitting member of the provincial fire prevention and public education committee with the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs.
Loyalist College – which is also honouring Dr. Robert ‘Bob’ Sanderson, former mayor of Port Hope and warden of Northumberland County later this year – noted honorary diplomas are awarded to individuals who embody the college’s core values through outstanding achievements and community impacts.
“They stand as examples of excellence for Loyalist students as they embark on the next phase of their lives,” said the college, in a recent release.
For Caddick, this honour also comes on the heels of the Bill Williams Humanitarian Award from the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs in May 2023, noted the city. This award also recognized Caddick’s leadership as a member of the Quinte West fire team.
“The City of Quinte West congratulates deputy Caddick and all of Loyalist College’s honourary diploma recipients,” said the city, in a recent release.
Caddick joined the Quinte team as deputy chief in 2020. He previously served with the Brighton Fire Department starting in 2014 and taking over the reins in 2018 as chief from then long-time retiring Chief Lloyd Hutchinson.
A veteran of fire services, Caddick has more than 20 years experience under his helmet.
He’s also an emergency management-certified municipal manager, with multiple fire-related accreditations.
“This year’s honorary diploma recipients are a truly exceptional group of individuals united by their exceptional leadership, innovative mindsets and commitment to enriching their respective fields,” said Loyalist College President and CEO Mark Kirkpatrick.
“As our graduates cross the stage this June, surrounded by their friends, family and supporters, the accomplishments and wisdom of these honorees will inspire and empower our students to pursue their career goals with compassion, conviction, and tenacity.”
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
