Awareness of mental health and youth suicide prevention
Doug Ranton (BSc ’89) and Sandra Ranton (BA ’88) have made significant contributions to their community to advocate for mental health and discuss the importance of suicide prevention. Their passion for this work and dedication as a couple has left a lasting impression on the Waterloo Region.
Doug served as the Alumni representative for the University of Waterloo Committee on Student Mental Health (CoSMH) for 3 years. They were tasked with executing the suggestions of the President’s Advisory Committee on Student Mental Health (PAC-SMH). As noted, when they were nominated, Doug “provided many insights that were vital to the functioning and success of CoSMH’s work and took a leadership role in fostering progress for several recommendations.”
As a couple, Doug and Sandra have established the Annual Jacob Ranton Memorial Basketball Tournament in honour of their son, Jacob. The tournament supports the initiatives of the Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council (WRSPC) and raises funds to support the initiatives that are taking place.
Doug and Sandra both had impressive careers as teachers and understand the impact this event has on the community. As Jacob was an avid basketball player, it is a chance for senior boy’s basketball teams from across the region to come together and participate. But it is so much more than that. A chance to mourn together, raise funds and hear from inspirational speakers.
In recognition of their commitment to advancing the Faculty of Health and the community through volunteer opportunities, Doug and Sandra Ranton are the recipient of the 2023 Faculty of Health Alumni Volunteer Award.