A global leader in security services headquartered in Montreal, GardaWorld counts numerous HEC Montréal alumni among its 122,000 employees working in 45 countries. Driven by a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to supporting the future of the institution that has shaped many of its people, GardaWorld has opted to earmark an extraordinary $1 million gift to HEC Montréal’s new downtown building. Similarly, GardaWorld head Stéphan Crétier felt compelled to make a $500,000 donation through his foundation.
Stéphan Crétier, the founder, chair, president and CEO of GardaWorld, applauds the excellence of his employees and, through this gesture, wishes to thank them for their contributions to the international success of GardaWorld. He hopes this donation will spur the development of Quebec professionals at one of the world’s largest French-speaking business schools.
“Combining state-of-the-art business education and networking is essential to preparing the global leaders of tomorrow. That is why it is important for us to support ambitious undertakings like HEC Montréal’s new downtown building,” he explained.
“Combining state-of-the-art business education and networking is essential to preparing the global leaders of tomorrow. That is why it is important for us to support ambitious undertakings like HEC Montréal’s new downtown building,” he explained. “We hope elite managers come here to hone their skills so they can then build on the momentum of Quebec businesses around the world. Thanks to HEC Montréal, our homegrown talent has achieved international recognition. Giving back to the business community is how they will make sure the next generation has access to teaching of the highest calibre.”
Crétier identifies closely with those who learned the ropes at HEC Montréal. “HEC Montréal is a leading institution and a proud symbol of excellence for the global French-speaking community. I’d like to have even more alumni working within our organization, here and across the planet,” he added.
In recognition of these outstanding donations, the 150-seat auditorium on the fourth floor of the new downtown building will be named in honour of GardaWorld and the adjacent space will be known as the Hall Stéphan-Crétier. Crétier has also joined the HEC Montréal Conseil des Gouverneurs.
“HEC Montréal is incredibly grateful to GardaWorld and the Stéphan Crétier Foundation for these wonderful donations that will be fundamental to the construction of the new downtown building,” said Michel Patry, President and CEO of the HEC Montréal Foundation. “I commend Mr. Crétier’s contribution and the trust he has both in our institution and in this highly promising initiative that will help cultivate an extensive ecosystem of innovation and collaboration that brings the business and academic worlds together. And now with economic recovery on the horizon, this new partnership is more meaningful than ever.”
