Alberta honours nine residents with province’s highest award
Nine Albertans have been named this year’s inductees into the Alberta Order of Excellence, the province’s highest honour, during an investiture ceremony at Government House.
“It is a pleasure to welcome these individuals to the Alberta Order of Excellence,” said Lieutenant Governor Salma Lakhani. “This honour does not recognize one single achievement, but rather a lifetime of significant contributions to this province. The nine men and women we are inducting are all much-admired leaders in their professional fields, but more importantly, they are leaders of their communities.”
The new inductees bring the total membership of the Alberta Order of Excellence to 229 since its establishment in 1979. The award is an official part of the Canadian Honours System.
This year’s recipients include:
Sine Chadi, Edmonton – Entrepreneur, philanthropist and former Alberta MLA. Chadi’s leadership strengthens vital community institutions, leaving a lasting mark on Alberta’s civic and cultural life.
Geoff Cumming, Calgary – International businessman and philanthropist. His support of medical research at the University of Calgary is enabling breakthroughs in disease treatment and pandemic response.
John Day, Edmonton – Lawyer, businessman and civic leader. Day has shaped Edmonton and Jasper’s urban and cultural landscape and played a key role in preserving the province’s architectural heritage.
Brian Felesky, Calgary – Lawyer, businessman and philanthropist. Felesky’s work spans support for victims of domestic violence, mentorship in East Africa, and assistance to organ transplant recipients.
Stephanie Felesky, Calgary – Community leader and volunteer. Her advocacy in areas ranging from child safety to global development has earned national recognition.
Nichole Neubauer, Medicine Hat – Family farm operator and education advocate. Neubauer champions Alberta agriculture and engages youth in pursuing careers in the sector.
Lyn Radford, Red Deer – Community builder and sports advocate. Radford’s efforts have brought major athletic events to Red Deer and strengthened volunteerism across Alberta.
John Scott, Longview – Rancher, stuntman, producer and film industry advocate. Scott has attracted acclaimed productions to Alberta and fostered opportunities for young talent while promoting the province’s Western heritage.
Doug Stollery, Edmonton – Lawyer, philanthropist and human rights advocate. Stollery helped secure Charter protections for 2SLGBTQ Canadians, advanced legal education, health and anti-poverty initiatives, and served as Chancellor of the University of Alberta.