It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Bill Conconi. Bill served as the Executive Director of the Canadian Student Leadership Association (formerly CASAA) for many years, retiring in 2018. 

Bill Conconi led the Canadian Student Leadership Association from a well-intentioned group of volunteer advisors to an official, registered not-for-profit organisation. It was his tireless work that laid the foundation for the success that CSLA now enjoys. He has mentored dozens of advisors, contributed thousands of hours of his time, secured literally millions of dollars of sponsorship funding and, along with his wife, Ellie, hosted hundreds of student leaders on the Oriole tall ship experience. Bill led by doing; by working; by providing opportunities and the support for others to lead. He invited others to make their greatest leadership contribution using their own unique skill set. Following his retirement in 2018, CSLA’s top student leader award was named after Bill. Each year, CSLA presents the F.W. (Bill) Conconi Above and Beyond Award to our top scholarship applicant, in recognition of their dedication to leadership and service.

Bill Conconi is a name synonymous with student leadership in Canada. His mentorship, guidance and care for young people and educators was an inspiration to many. We are incredibly fortunate to have been in Bill’s presence as our leader, and are sending love to Ellie and his family. 

We invite you, our Canadian leadership family, to share your memories of Bill with us and one another, as we honour his legacy and friendship to us all. It is also the family's wishes that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Canadian Student Leadership Association.