1997
John Steward, CFEE, creator of the only children's French immersion festival in Canada, said there is no greater recognition in our industry than being chosen for the IFEA Hall of Fame.
Steward noted that joining the IFEA before the first presentation of La Fête Colombienne Des Enfants was instrumental in the success of that event as through IFEA, he was able to meet many helpful individuals who were most generous in offering their ideas and advice.
Being inducted into IFEA's Hall of Fame in Montréal, Canada made it even more meaningful to him as a Canadian, as La Fête Colombienne Des Enfants is focused on encouraging all Canadians to learn about and appreciate the contributions the French culture makes in forming the Canadian identity.
In addition to La Fête Colombienne Des Enfants, Stewart has also helped found the Canadian Children's Festival Association, created Mandarin and Japanese immersion events, has been Vice President of the Canadian Festival Association, and served on the IFEA Executive Committee.
Stewart's passion, computers and digital communication tools, has had an enormous impact on him and the industry. "I am continually amazed, " said Steward. "The advent of e-email alone is significant, but add to that the World Wide Web and the publishing and bookkeeping programs that are an integral part of our days, and one realizes just how great an impact the personal computer has had on not only the industry but also our lives." Editor's Note: John Steward, CFEE, passed away in 2002. d.