Louis Lagassé

People often believe that success happens overnight. They see the results, not the process — the summit, not the climb. But real success is never instant. It’s the outcome of countless setbacks, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt where giving up seemed easier than pushing forward.

Even when others trusted me early on, I learned that trust alone isn’t enough. True achievement takes time, it demands patience, discipline, and the courage to keep moving when nothing seems to work. Success is not built on luck or shortcuts, but on consistency and resilience.

Every mistake has taught me more than any victory ever could. The fear of failing is natural, but letting that fear dictate your path is what truly holds you back. Progress only comes to those who dare to try, to fail, and to rise again with greater clarity.

So if you’re chasing success, don’t look for speed, look for strength. Because what lasts is not what comes fast, but what’s built with purpose, patience, and perseverance.

Philanthropy & Life Lessons

True philanthropy isn’t about giving money — it’s about giving meaning. For me, success has always carried a responsibility: to reinvest what life has given me into people, culture, and community.

Over the years, I’ve supported initiatives that help Sherbrooke grow not only economically, but also artistically and spiritually. I contributed the necessary support to help restore the Théâtre Granada, a historic landmark that continues to bring art and energy to our city. In 1995, I founded the J.A. Louis Lagassé Foundation, dedicated to advancing arts, music, science, philanthropy, and education — nurturing the creative and curious minds that will shape tomorrow.

I have also provided numerous scholarships to students across Québec and Ontario, supporting programs in music, science, and the arts. These contributions are not just about opportunity — they are about belief. Belief that when we invest in education, we invest in the architects of the future.

One of my proudest gestures was helping the Orchestre symphonique de Sherbrooke acquire a high-quality Yamaha piano. It wasn’t just an instrument — it was a way to help the orchestra attract world-class talent and offer our community richer, more powerful performances.

Because giving back is not about recognition — it’s about creating ripples of possibility that continue long after we’re gone. The greatest reward is not the medals or titles, but the knowledge that you’ve helped others rise.

Still, I am deeply honored to have been recognized for these efforts. Since 2004, I have been a Member of the Order of Canada, and I have received distinctions such as the Mérite Estrien, the Queen Elizabeth II Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal, the Medal of Honor from the Chambre des Notaires, and the Governor General’s Certificate of Recognition. I also hold honorary doctorates from Bishop’s University and the University of Sherbrooke, as well as several other honors that remind me that giving creates value far beyond oneself.

My journey has taught me one truth: real success is not measured by what we achieve, but by what we enable others to achieve. The impact we leave behind in people, in culture, in the next generation is the legacy that truly endures.