MacEwan Day: A Time of Celebration

Employee recognition awards emerged as an integral and cherished part of MacEwan Day. A source of pride for many employees was the Grant MacEwan Medallion, first awarded in 1986 and presented to the recipients for a few years by Dr. MacEwan himself.

To qualify for the Medallion, college employees had to exhibit integrity, a commitment to excellence, a proactive spirit, and dedication to the college and the broader community.

The inaugural recipient of the Grant MacEwan Medallion was Chuck Day, Vice President Academic.  In 2015, the last medallion was presented to Cathryn Heslep, Vice President of Student Services.

Gradually additional awards were introduced, including the:

Award for Innovation – in recognition of employees who demonstrate creativity and originality in their quest to enhance the institution's effectiveness and efficiency.

Distinguished Teaching Award – given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary teaching skills by addressing the needs and requirements of students.

Students' Association Champion Award – given to staff members who showed outstanding service, support, and advocacy for students.

Emeritus Award - an honorary title given to retired faculty and administrators with at least ten years of distinguished service through teaching scholarly activity, leadership administration, and professional service to the university and community.

Leadership for Sustainability – in recognition of an individual for reflecting the university's commitment to fostering creative approaches to sustainability in education and campus operations.

Outstanding Service Award – in recognition of an individual who has shown exceptional dedication in their role, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of their department and making a significant contribution to the university’s overall success.

Outstanding Team Award – presented to a group of employees whose collective efforts have resulted in the development of a service or product that has profoundly impacted improving and enhancing a crucial university process.

“MacEwan Day was everyone’s favourite event. The day we all came together, at a pancake breakfast to celebrate the University’s namesake and those who made special contributions to the University that year or over their career. In the early days, Dr. MacEwan’s attendance, his personal tour of the campus and his humble words of wisdom were highlights everyone looked forward to. In addition to honouring the namesake of the University, faculty, staff members and teams were nominated by their peers for their contributions to the university. The highest honour awarded was the MacEwan Medallion, something that many in the retiree group have received.”

– Susan Cooper 1988-2019 Senior Manager Hospitality Services, now retired (Source: 50 Years of MacEwan Memories prepared by retirees of MacEwan)