The Town of Tillsonburg is proud to name Scott Gooding as its Citizen of the Year, recognizing a lifetime of service, compassion, and commitment to the people and institutions that make the community strong.

This prestigious honour reflects the values Tillsonburg holds dear: generosity, volunteerism, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to community wellbeing. Mr. Gooding exemplifies these values through decades of service as an educator, coach, mentor, volunteer, and advocate for youth and families across the town.

Known by many as a person who would give the shirt off his back, Scott Gooding is widely admired for his kindness, integrity, and genuine care for others. He has an extraordinary ability to bring people together, to listen without judgment, and to support those around him in meaningful and lasting ways. His passion for building community and helping others succeed has touched countless lives in Tillsonburg.

Mr. Gooding dedicated 36 years to education, spending 34 of those years at Glendale High School, after beginning his career through supply teaching and long-term occasional assignments. Throughout his career, he taught Physical Education, History, Cooperative Education, Guidance, Civics and Careers, and provided English and Math instruction for special education students for more than 20 years. His work consistently went beyond academics, focusing on student confidence, inclusion, and personal growth.

During his time at Glendale, Mr. Gooding played a vital role in shaping school culture. He coached boys' and girls' soccer, hockey, and ringette for nearly three decades. He served as staff advisor for House Council throughout his entire tenure, supported graduating students through the Green and Gold Council, participated in the COPE committee in its early years to support struggling students, and helped strengthen staff connections through the social committee. His impact was so meaningful that the Scott Gooding Spirit Award was established in his name to honour his exceptional commitment and positivity.

Since retiring, Mr. Gooding has continued to serve the Town of Tillsonburg with the same dedication. He helped establish the Friends of Glendale Committee, now in its third year, raising funds for student activities, scholarships, and athletics. He also created the Glendale post-secondary network, connecting current students with alumni to explore career opportunities and future pathways.

Mr. Gooding’s contributions to community sport are extensive and long standing. He coached minor soccer in Tillsonburg for 25 years, adult women’s soccer, ringette, and minor hockey, and volunteered with the Tillsonburg Skating Club for more than a decade. He currently serves on the Tillsonburg Youth Advisory Council and the Recreation and Sports Advisory Committee, where he continues to advocate for opportunities that support youth engagement and active living. He also lends his time and experience as a member of the Tillsonburg Wall of Fame Committee.

His commitment to service extends to charitable causes that impact families both locally and beyond. Mr. Gooding has participated in the Great Cycle Challenge for six years, raising funds for SickKids Hospital in support of children fighting cancer, with a personal fundraising total approaching 50,000 dollars. He has also volunteered as a canvasser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

The Town of Tillsonburg is honoured to recognize Scott Gooding as Citizen of the Year. His lifelong dedication, selflessness, and belief in the power of community reflect the very best of Tillsonburg. This recognition serves as a heartfelt thank you for the lasting difference he has made, and continues to make, in the lives of so many. Scott will be presented with this award the evening of June 9, 2026 at the Lion's Den.