Vernon Langdon
Many men and women have attained incredible achievements in life, knowing that their success was made possible through the tremendous support of others. This knowledge has incentivized them into a life of giving back to others so that they, too, can similarly attain success and be an asset to their family, community and country. This scenario aptly describes the life of Vernon Langdon.
Vernon, an amazingly well-respected educator, musician and multi-disciplined athlete, is now on a mission of helping young people and molding the next generation of successful leaders. One way he’s making his mission possible is by soliciting the assistance of a wide cross-section of Canadian society to support the Vernon Langdon Golf Classic.
Biography
Born in Trinidad, Vernon was intellectually gifted and highly talented. However, financing post- secondary studies was beyond the humble means of him and his family. Fortunately, he was able to earn a track and field scholarship to Syracuse College in New York. Ultimately, he would emigrate to Canada.
THE EDUCATOR
It’s right here in Canada that he has made his most lasting impact. He spent 24 years at Crawford Adventist Academy, first as a teacher; then, as Vice-Principal. Eventually, when he was appointed to lead the school, he created history. It was the first time ever that Crawford Adventist Academy had hired a black Principal for its K-12 School. His appointment paved the way for other educators of similar background to be hired as Principals in our school system. However, Vernon is someone who firmly believes in reaching for the stars. He moved from being Principal and, for four years, served as an Associate Superintendent of Education. One thing is certain about Vernon as an educator; he has used each of his school positions to touch lives and prepare many of Canada’s future private and public sector professionals to establish themselves in society.
THE MUSICIAN
When not in the classroom, Vernon would be engaged in two of his other passions, sports and music. His musical credits include membership of “The Harvilites,” a male quartet that performs on the Toronto gospel music circuit. An active volunteer at his church, he pioneered the launch of an annual community Wind and String Musical Recital. The Recital, showcasing more than 50 participants ranging from beginners to very accomplished performers, has been running continuously since 1980.
THE ATHLETE
In the sports arena, he excelled at bowling with the bragging rights of two perfect games. In 1972, was instrumental in the formation of a bowling league that catered to newly arrived Caribbean immigrants providing an outlet to socialize and learn a new skill so that they could cope in adjusting to the Canadian winter. Vernon also has been a topnotch track athlete coach. For a full 17 years, he coached a very successful church/community track and field team. His resume also includes the title of celebrated amateur golfer. For several years, he has dominated the links in and around the Toronto area.
THE PHILANTHROPIST
Golf is now the avenue through which he is making a strenuous effort to fulfilling a lifelong philanthropic commitment of continuing his work of helping young people. For the past five years, he has hosted an annual golf tournament – Golfing for Fun! – with the major focus of introducing and encouraging beginners to the sport.
The Vernon Langdon Golf Classic, however, is not just an opportunity at having a fun day at sports.
It’s also a chance for golfers, and their friends and family as well, to come together to support the
worthy cause of raising funds for youth development initiatives.
The golfing fundraiser is grounded in a simple motive, says Vernon Langdon. “My greatest joy is the
opportunity to help others,” he explains.