University of Niagara Falls Canada’s Executive Director of Community and Alumni Relations recognized at annual awards gala hosted by Business Link Media
University of Niagara Falls Canada is proud to celebrate Felicia Werner, Executive Director of Community and Alumni Relations, who was named Best in Class at the annual Niagara 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards.
Announced during the awards ceremony, held May 28 at the Holiday Inn in St. Catharines, in front of a crowd of more than 300 people including dignitaries, past recipients, and community supporters. Of the 40 outstanding young professionals recognized across the Niagara region, Werner stood apart, receiving the highest honour bestowed at the gala, given to just one recipient each year.
“Felicia’s recognition as Best in Class is a testament to the drive and community spirit she brings to everything she does,” said David Gray, President and Vice-Chancellor at UNF. “We are incredibly proud to have her as part our UNF team and this honour is a reflection of the impact she makes here on our campus and across the Niagara region.”
UNF had reason to celebrate twice over on the evening with the university’s Registrar, Jason Lennard, also named among the 40 Under Forty honourees.



The Best in Class designation recognizes an honouree whose achievements, leadership, and community contributions are considered unmatched among that year’s recipients. The recipient is not told in advance and is revealed during the gala.
“I’m truly humbled to receive this recognition. Niagara is a community I care deeply about, and I am grateful every day to do work that connects what we do at UNF to the people and places around us. It was especially meaningful to celebrate the evening alongside my colleague and friend Jason Lennard, as well as so many other incredible leaders who are helping shape the future of our region,” said Werner.
Joining UNF in 2024, Werner leads the university’s strategic efforts to build meaningful, values-driven relationships with community, industry, government, and institutional partners. She has more than a decade of experience spanning international recruitment, partnerships, and strategic growth, previously serving as Head of International Recruitment at the University of East London. Werner holds an MBA in Finance from the University of East London and a BBA in Marketing from the University of Texas at Austin.
Presented by Business Link Media Group, the Niagara 40 Under Forty program has recognized more than 900 individuals since its founding in 2004. It celebrates young professionals who are under 40, demonstrate significant accomplishments in their field, and show a commitment to the Niagara community.
