U of S recognizes outstanding citizens in honour of Canada 150

“During Canada’s sesquicentennial, we’re thrilled to recognize 10 of our most inspiring community members and their incredible accomplishments,” said Kelly McInnes, chief leadership development officer at the U of S and chair of the U of S Canada 150 Citizens selection committee. “In many cases, their contributions have had a profound impact not only here at the U of S, but nationally and internationally as well.”

Members of the university and wider community were invited to submit nominations identifying university staff, faculty, students and alumni who best exemplify the federal government’s Canada 150 themes of diversity and inclusion, reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, environment, and youth. A selection committee consisting of U of S faculty and staff reviewed the nominations and made the final 10 selections.

The initiative is part of the U of S Canada 150 Project and offers the university community an opportunity to reflect on its legacy and showcase the ways in which its students, staff, faculty and alumni have not only shaped Canada’s past, but are contributing to enriching the country’s present and future.

“Canada 150 is a significant occasion for our university—one that asks us not only to celebrate our achievements, but envision a future that truly reflects who we are as a community and as Canadians,” said Karen Chad, vice-president of research and the executive sponsor of the U of S Canada 150 Project.

The individuals being honoured as part of the U of S Canada 150 Citizens project are:

• CeCe Baptiste, strategic planning advisor and U of S graduate: for her extensive volunteer work and commitment to the Indigenous community
• Marie Battiste, education professor: for her work on indigenizing education
• Siera Bearchell, law student: for her global representation of Canada advocating for positive body image for women 
• Angie Bugg, energy conservation co-ordinator at Saskatchewan Environmental Society and U of S graduate: for her commitment to environmental stewardship and gender and ethnic diversity in the engineering field
• Ken Coates, public policy professor and Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation: for his work on developing strong public policy that supports Indigenous rights
• Max FineDay, co-executive director at the Canadian Roots Exchange and U of S graduate: for his leadership in building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities
• Dr. Alyssa Hayes, former assistant dentistry professor: for her commitment to making dental care accessible to vulnerable residents and refugees
• Dr. Jay Kalra, pathology professor and faculty representative on the U of S Board of Governors: for his dedication to promoting co-operation and understanding among ethnic groups
• Harry Lafond, executive director of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and U of S graduate: for his community work and advocacy on behalf of Indigenous Peoples
• Naheda Sahtout, PhD candidate: for her extensive volunteer work with minority groups and dedication to supporting newcomers to Canada

For full biographies of our honourees, please visit canada150.usask.ca/celebrate-success.php

The U of S will continue to mark Canada’s 150th birthday throughout 2017. For a complete list of Canada 150 events, initiatives, and celebrations, visit canada150.usask.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Jennifer Thoma
Media Relations Specialist
University of Saskatchewan
306-966-1851
jennifer.thoma@usask.ca