This award was first presented in December 1969, in memory of Donald Fergus Paynter whose exemplary performance in B.C. Youth Parliament's predecessor organisation, the Older Boys' Parliament of British Columbia, set a high standard met by few. In awarding this trophy in his memory, we present it in the spirit of the true Parliamentarian, of which Don most certainly exemplified.
Don first attended Parliament for its 31st Session in December 1961, and was sponsored by the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church in Vancouver. In the years following, Don moved up the ranks, serving first as Minister of Alumni Affairs, and continuing to Minister of Spiritual Welfare, Deputy Speaker, Speaker, and, at the 36th Session in December 1966, Don was Premier. He returned to Victoria in December 1968 to act as Observer Leader. Don died in January 1969.
The Members of the Older Boys' Parliament established this award in Don's memory, to recognize individuals who have distinguished themselves by their outstanding leadership in Youth Parliament. Prior to 1991, the award was also known as the "Parliamentarian of the Year Award". From 1992 to 1998, it was known as the "Paynter Award for Enduring Contributions to Parliament".
The Paynter Award may, at Senate's discretion, be given to a member of the previous Session of the Youth Parliament who, during his or her years of membership:
-has demonstrated both exceptional leadership and noteworthy dedication to all aspects of Parliament's activities; and
-has made contributions which either are substantially in excess of that expected through the normal course of activities, or which, because of their innovative nature, are likely to have an enduring impact
