The Descartes Medals are awarded to leaders in mathematics education and “leadership” is a mantle that David Shepherd wears with ease and obvious success. He has a wonderful record of commitment to mathematics and teaching, and also to sports and outdoor education.
David was born in Etobicoke and grew up in Ontario and Quebec. He graduated from the University of Waterloo's Mathematics Faculty, Co-operative Teaching Program. After graduation he moved to the Collingwood area and Collingwood C.I. where he has taught since 1975. David has been a member of both OAME and GVMA and has, for many years been a marker and committee member for numerous Canadian Mathematics Competition contests.
David's other love is cross country running and track and field, where, as a coach, his work has also been recognized at very high levels. He is the winner of a 2006 OFSSA Leadership in School Sport Award. His work with students also includes backpacking, canoeing and curling.
David and his wife, Krysia Piorczynski, live in Ravenna on a hobby farm they share with two horses, two goats and twelve cats.