For more than four decades, Ron Rambarran has been a guiding force for young people, a builder of community institutions, and a steadfast champion of public safety in Hamilton. His life’s work has touched thousands. His legacy continues to inspire. And this year, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce is proud to honour him with the Social Impact Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hamilton Gives Awards gala.

A Life Shaped by Education, Service, and Community

A graduate of McMaster University and the University of Toronto, Ron began his career at Columbia International College in Hamilton in 1980. What started as a teaching role grew into a profound journey. Over 36 years, he advanced from educator to Principal, retiring in 2016 after shaping one of the most internationally diverse student communities in Hamilton. Even in retirement, he continued to serve as Principal of Columbia’s online subsidiary, Canada eSchool, helping students reach their potential across the globe.

His commitment to educational excellence extended beyond the classroom. Ron was elected as the Private School Representative on the first Governing Council of the Ontario College of Teachers, helping shape the standards and policies that continue to guide educators across Ontario. In 2005, he received the Hamilton Spectator’s Publisher’s Award for Educators, recognizing his lasting impact on student success.

A Champion of Public Safety and Youth Engagement

In 1995, Ron’s belief in the power of young people and safe communities led him to Crime Stoppers of Hamilton. What followed was a remarkable 30-year volunteer career that has strengthened the organization locally, provincially, and nationally.

Ron served three terms as Chair of the Crime Stoppers Board and has dedicated countless hours to its Fundraising and Nominating Committees. His leadership helped shape the modern Crime Stoppers program, strengthen its governance, and build community trust.

Recognizing the importance of youth engagement, Ron forged a groundbreaking partnership between Columbia International College and Crime Stoppers. Together, they launched the Student Crime Stoppers Symposium, an initiative that inspired civic responsibility among students while fostering a deeper understanding of community safety. His work at the national level as Corporate Advisory Chair of the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association’s Scholastic Committee helped scale youth-focused initiatives across the country.

Even after decades of service, Ron continued to invest in professional development, attending numerous Ontario Association of Crime Stoppers conferences, many at his own expense, to ensure Hamilton remained a leader in program excellence.

A Family Man, Mentor, and Builder of Better Futures

Beyond his professional and volunteer work, Ron finds joy with his wife Ingrid, their five children, fourteen grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. His family reflects what his life embodies: leadership through care, service, and love.

An Honour Well Deserved 

Ron Rambarran’s story is one of steady, transformative impact. From shaping generations of students to strengthening Crime Stoppers for three decades, his life’s work reflects a rare blend of passion, leadership, and community devotion. Hamilton is safer, stronger, and more connected because of him.

Tonight, we proudly honour his extraordinary contributions, his decades of unwavering service, and the legacy he continues to build.

Congratulations to Ron Rambarran, the 2025 Social Impact Lifetime Achievement Award recipient!

Cheer on the Finalists for 2025 Hamilton Gives Awards on Dec. 2!

The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the finalists for the Hamilton Gives Awards, presented in partnership with United Way Halton & Hamilton and the McKeil Family Foundation. The winners of each category will be unveiled at the Chamber’s second annual awards gala at Hamilton Convention Centre on Tuesday, December 2. 

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