Alain Lemaire, right, receiving his honorary doctorate from the rector of the University of Sherbrooke, Bruno-Marie Béchard.

In the presence of an audience of 13,000 new graduates and invited guests, Alain Lemaire said he was very touched by such an honour.  By invoking the challenges that Cascades has faced since its inception in 1964, he sought to underline the contribution of its employees.  “The pride that I feel when I am reminded of what Cascades has become, I owe it primarily to our employees,” he stated. “The best technology will never replace motivated employees who are concerned with the success of their company.” 

 

A graduate of l'Institut des pâtes et papiers de Trois-Rivières, Alain Lemaire joined his brothers Bernard and Laurent at the helm of Cascades in 1967. Seasoned executive, with an uncommon rational mind, he orchestrated, amongst other things, the purchase of Domtar's equity interest in the containerboard company, Norampac, the largest transaction in the history of Cascades.  

 

 

Alain Lemaire addressed the crowd of 13,000 graduates and guests who were attending the University of Sherbrooke's annual convocation ceremony.

For view Alain Lemaire's speech that was delivered when he received his honorary doctorate, click here.