This award was created by the OCA Board to recognize the contribution of Dorothy Walter to the growth and development of the Association. It is one of the most prestigious recognitions offered by the OCA. Dorothy died in December of 2006; however, her legacy of leadership lives on in the form of the good work done and fine examples set by the past and future recipients of this high recognition.
The award is presented, not necessarily annually, for providing outstanding service over a period of time. This outstanding service must include, but is not limited, to:
The 2025 Recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence is Heather Davidson.
Heather Davidson is a recreation professional who has spent over 25 years working in roles where people, programs, and systems all come together – sometimes neatly, often not, and almost always with real humans involved. She was using em dashes long before AI co-opted them.
She currently serves as a Recreation Supervisor with the City of Hamilton, supporting high-quality, safe, and inclusive experiences for children and youth across large-scale recreation programs, including Supie (and oh yeah, Camp Kidaca)!
Heather might not have grown up going to camp or being immersed in the camp world, but she was raised by parents who believed that strangers are really just friends you haven’t met yet. Growing up in sports, activities and a large Italian family she learned early on the importance of connection, responsibility, and creating environments where people feel comfortable showing up as themselves. Those lessons eventually found a natural home in recreation and camp.
Through her involvement with the Ontario Camps Association, Heather has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Vice President and President, helping guide the sector through moments of growth, challenge, and change. She continues to contribute to standards, accreditation, governance, and equity-focused work, with a particular interest in strengthening the behind-the-scenes systems that make great camp experiences possible.
Heather believes the best programs are built when joy, care, and responsibility are all part of the plan – and that it’s worth reminding ourselves not just to have a great day, but that we have the power to make it one.
