Announcing 2019 University of Regina Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards Recipients

By Justin Waldrop Posted: September 19, 2019 8:00 a.m.

Join the U of R at the annual AACAs on October 10 to honour the achievements of six extraordinary alumni.
Join the U of R at the annual AACAs on October 10 to honour the achievements of six extraordinary alumni. Photos: U of R Photography

This year on October 10, the Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards, one of the highest honours the University of Regina bestows on distinguished graduates, will recognize six extraordinary alumni and the contributions they have made locally, nationally, and around the world. Meet the recipients of the 2019 ACAAs:

Gary Drummond BA'72

Lifetime Achievement Award

Queen's Counsel-turned-business-leader, Gary founded and led Direct Energy Marketing, and has been involved with many successful real estate projects over the years. His entrepreneurial spirit and love of sports led him to be part of a group to purchase and lead the Arizona Coyotes and to become the founding partner of the CFL's upcoming franchise, the Atlantic Schooners. Gary is also the creator of "Hawg-a-Rama" which has raised $1 million for University of Regina Athletics and $1.5 million for Regina Minor Football. (Learn more about Gary)

Janine Windolph BFA'06, MFA'11 & Trudy Stewart BFA'08

Professional Achievement Award

Janine and Trudy are an award-winning filmmaking duo whose work has been shown at festivals around the world; they continue to mentor the next generation of filmmakers. As a result of their work as statement gatherers for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, they created the RIIS Media Project. The Regina Indian Industrial School (RIIS) and its cemetery holding the unmarked graves of approximately 40 students are the focus. The cemetery land was transferred from the federal government to the RIIS Commemorative Association in June 2019. (Learn more about Janine and Trudy)

Brianne Urzada BEd'12 (with distinction), BA'14 (with distinction)

Humanitarian and Community Service Award

Life threw Brianne a curveball when at 23 she was diagnosed with cancer. While undergoing chemotherapy, the arts educator was inspired to give back to the community through her art. Her Five Stages art exhibit raised $47,000 for cancer care through Hospitals of Regina Foundation and $16,000 for the Allan Blair Cancer Centre. With the cancer in remission, she launched Arthouse, where she facilitates arts-based programs and free art classes for cancer patients and survivors. (Learn more about Brianne)

Tyler Willox BBA'11

Outstanding Young Alumni Award

As a University of Regina student, Tyler founded the Regina chapter of 5 Days for the Homeless, served as URSU Vice-President, and as a member of the U of R's Senate. Still early in his career, Tyler has created impact in his role with Information Services Corporation, served as the youngest Chair of the Board for the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce, represented Canada at the 2017 G20 Young Entrepreneur's Alliance Summit in Berlin, and was named to the CBC Saskatchewan Future 40. (Learn more about Tyler)

Paul McLellan BAdmin'81, MBA'09

Dr. Robert & Norma Ferguson Award for Service to the University

Serving on the University of Regina's Board of Governors from 2008-2015, Paul's tenure included the launch of the College Avenue Campus Renewal Project, record-breaking undergraduate student enrolment, and increased opportunities for Indigenous students. During Paul's final year as Board Chair, the University began developing a new strategic plan, peyak aski kikawinaw - Together We Are Stronger, demonstrating the University's commitment to fulfilling the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's calls to action. (Learn more about Paul)

Join us on October 10 to honour these extraordinary alumni at the 2019 ACAAs dinner. Tickets now available at uregina.ca/alumawards.

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Past ACAA Recipients