James Crescenzo awarded the inaugural Community Impact Award from Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College

Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College at the University of British Columbia are pleased to announce that James “Jim” Crescenzo will be the recipient of the institution’s inaugural Community Impact Award, in recognition of distinguished service to the community and to the Catholic Colleges at UBC.

The award will be presented by the Most Reverend Richard Smith, Archbishop of Vancouver and Chancellor of Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College, at the school’s 2026 Convocation on May 9, 2026.

James Crescenzo is a teacher, mentor, actor and community activist who has been supporting young men and women across the span of a 40-year career. Mr. Crescenzo has worked with some of the world’s most well-known creatives and has used his contacts to support under-privileged youth. He is the co-founder of the East End Boys Club Society, which includes Boys and Girls Leadership Groups. This organization provides training and mentorship opportunities for young people in disadvantaged communities or circumstances. His charitable organization works with the Vancouver and Delta School Districts, with our Catholic Colleges, and with numerous other entities to identify and support young people at risk. 

Mr. Crescenzo has worked with Corpus Christi College over many years to help identify students seeking a post-secondary start to their careers, resulting in many young men and women finding a successful home at the College and then continuing to further studies. 

As Dr. Turcotte, President of the Colleges has noted, “Jim is an extraordinarily generous philanthropist who uses his vast network of contacts to enrich the opportunities of young people who might otherwise fall between the cracks. He and his wife Tina are true community champions in every respect, and dynamic partners with our Colleges, in celebrating the importance of post-secondary education.”