Duane Green: Award for Commitment to the University

Alumni
Awards and recognition
Duane Green with his award
Duane Green: Award for Commitment to the University
A life guided by philanthropy and loyalty for his alma mater.

No matter where his career has taken him, Duane Green’s (BSocSc ’94) commitment to uOttawa has remained unwavering. Not only that, but he has encouraged others in his life to build their own relationship with his alma mater.  

Green is president and CEO of Franklin Templeton Investments Canada and Fiduciary Trust Canada. Leveraging his more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Green leads the Canadian team that manages the assets of retail, institutional, and high-net-worth investors across the country.  

According to Green, his passion for the financial services industry started when he was studying economics at uOttawa. “One of my professors recommended that I get some sales experience in order to broaden my perspective of the investment world,” said Green in an interview. “He thought that it would open many doors for me and he was right.” 

Through his various executive roles, Green aims to advance and champion diversity in the workplace. “I believe we all win when everybody has the opportunity to participate, advance their careers, and bring their best ideas to the table,” said Green.  

Volunteering is a central part of Green’s life, and uOttawa is just one of the institutions that has benefited greatly from his generosity of time and energy. Green was chair of the Faculty of Social Sciences Campaign Cabinet between 2016 and 2020, and since November 2021 has served as an advisor to the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. In both roles he has supported the advancement of the faculty’s strategic priorities, built its reputation, and rallied fundraising support.  

“It’s a wonderful chance to give back to the community and to gain new perspectives and experiences,” said Green of his volunteering. 

In terms of public events, Green has answered calls to participate in several lectures and panels that bring together current uOttawa students with professionals from different fields. No matter the cause, Green taps into his extensive network to ensure industry leaders are always invited to engage with the University.  

Not only does Green draw high profile individuals into uOttawa—he also promotes his alma mater within his professional spheres. For example, during the pandemic Green invited Abel Brodeur, associate professor of economics at uOttawa, to share his findings on the socioeconomic consequences of COVID-19 with Franklin Templeton’s internal and external stakeholders and shareholders. That online event attracted 600 attendees. 

Finally, Green has also contributed financial gifts to uOttawa. In 2019, Green and his wife, Angela, created the Duane and Angela Green Bursary in Economics. The annual award supports five full-time undergraduate students in their studies within the Faculty of Social Science’s economics department.  

Overall, Green exemplifies how significant an impact alumni can have on the mission and growth of their alma mater through volunteerism and philanthropy.  

Watch Duane Green's acceptance speech.