The University of Lethbridge will honour six influential individuals with honorary degrees in 2026, recognizing leaders in diverse fields such as archaeology, education, the arts, business, justice and philanthropy.
“The individuals who have been chosen this year to be honoured reflect the values of the University of Lethbridge and bring to life what it means to effect change and better society,” says ULethbridge Chancellor Terry Whitehead (BA ’94). “Whether it’s through their chosen careers, their commitment to community, their stature as thought leaders, they are all invested in contributing positively to humanity and we’re excited to recognize their accomplishments.”
Archaeologist Robert (Bob) Dawe, artist Faye HeavyShield, community advocate Knud Petersen and Justice Derek Redman will be granted honorary degrees as part of Spring 2026 Convocation (May 28-29). The late Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84), former ULethbridge Board of Governors Chair, will be honoured at a private ceremony on May 30, while Cheryl Misak (BASc (BA) ’83) will be recognized at Fall 2026 Convocation (Oct. 17).
“I am really looking forward to the upcoming convocation ceremonies and the addresses of our honorees,” adds Whitehead. “I am always eager to learn from successful leaders of society, to understand their world view and what motivates them in their daily lives. I know our graduating class and those who attend the ceremonies will leave inspired by their words.”
The following are the honorees:
Robert (Bob) Dawe
A leading Alberta archaeologist and assistant curator at the Royal Alberta Museum, Robert (Bob) Dawe has had an enviable career, conducting fieldwork throughout Alberta, notably at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Writing-On-Stone, and also across the Arctic from Alaska to Baffin Island, in Ontario and even China.
Faye HeavyShield
A visual artist, cultural worker, mentor and teacher, Faye HeavyShield has earned national and international acclaim for her artistic works that are deeply connected to her Blackfoot culture, a practice she is eager to share with youth and emerging artists to help preserve Blackfoot ways of knowing.
Cheryl Misak (BA ’83)
Dr. Cheryl Misak, the University of Lethbridge’s first Rhodes Scholar, has achieved global recognition for her contributions to the world of philosophy through the highest standards of scholarship and numerous publications, and as an academic who has served as vice-president and provost at the University of Toronto.
Knud Petersen
Whether it be fundraising, volunteering or simply offering his infectious smile as support, Knud Petersen consistently shows up for his community as an influential driver of local spirit, philanthropy and well-being, always willing to do the heavy work and make a better society for all.
Justice Derek Redman
The Honourable Justice Derek Redman is a distinguished Alberta jurist recognized for his exemplary judicial leadership, his dedication to public legal education and community service, and his unwavering advocacy for a justice system that is accessible, culturally informed, and responsive to the communities it serves.
Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84)
A respected member of the southern Alberta business community, decorated chartered professional accountant and former Chair of the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors, Dean Gallimore effected long-lasting change in his community, advocated for post-secondary education and created pathways to success for the next generation of students. Gallimore unexpectedly passed away during his term as Chair of the Board of Governors, and this is the first posthumous degree awarded by the University Senate.
For more information on Spring 2026 Convocation, visit ulethbridge.ca/convocation/spring-2026-information.