Arts, Culture and Heritage

Busayo Disu
Busayo Disu is a literary artist, filmmaker and community leader advancing inclusion through powerful storytelling in Strathcona County. As founder of the Africans Society of Strathcona County and the initiator of the County’s first Black History Month proclamation, she has created inclusive platforms that celebrate African culture. Her book Our Story, Our Voice, shared in schools across the community, and her documentary work invites meaningful conversations about cultural connection and belonging.

Krystal Jones
Award‑winning glass artist Krystal Jones is recognized for her striking, nature‑inspired work and creative excellence. Selected to design the 2026 Alberta Summer Games commemorative giftware, she represents Strathcona County on a provincial stage. As her nominator shared, Krystal truly comes alive when sharing her process - bringing joy to her work and inspiration to others.

Strathcona County Museum & Archives (Strathma)
Affectionately known as Strathma, the Strathcona County Museum & Archives brings the County’s history to life. Through thoughtful innovation, the team has expanded outreach by over 50 percent and delivered 56 popular public programs. Staff ensure local history is safeguarded through trusted artifact and archival processes. By warmly inviting participation through inclusive storytelling, Strathma continues to strengthen community belonging and cultural understanding.

Athletic Achievement

Tam and Dan Rosnau
Dynamic coaching duo Tam and Dan Rosnau have shaped the County’s basketball community for more than two decades. Beyond earning multiple championship banners, they are known for building confidence and character on and off the court. They invest countless hours mentoring players to excel in life beyond sport. In the words of their nominator, “what matters most is what they build - long after the final buzzer”.

Community Service

Mark Ackerman
Mark Ackerman has provided years of steady leadership to the Colchester community, often stepping forward to serve in multiple roles when needed most. Whether supporting events, facilities or governance; his hands‑on commitment ensures the community continues to thrive. His dedication preserves the rural spirit that defines and connects Strathcona County.

Citizens on Patrol Society (SCCOPS)
For 25 years, the Citizens on Patrol Society has supported community safety as the trusted “eyes and ears” in partnership with the RCMP. Their friendly visible presence - often sparking conversations even off patrol - builds awareness, connection and civic pride across generations. The dedication of volunteers is evident in their patrols, education and outreach that strengthen the well-being across Strathcona County.

John Heitman
Through his self-declared ‘labour of love’, John Heitman serves as a dedicated steward of the Cooking Lake Cemetery for over 40 years. He ensures families are always surrounded by care, dignity and respect during times of loss. His passion for commemorating people’s lives led to the creation of the veterans’ monument, honouring those who served our country.

Economic Diversification

Prenaka Ram
Prenaka’s resilient leadership and entrepreneurship has strengthened our local economy. Through her business, she has created a welcoming space for wellness and local employment, while rebuilding through significant challenges with determination and integrity. As an ambassador for the International Women Entrepreneurs Organization, Prenaka serves as a powerful role model at the local, regional, national and international forums.

H&W Produce (Renee Harrison)
Under Renee Harrison’s leadership, H&W Produce has redefined inclusive hiring by creating meaningful opportunities for neurodiverse employees to excel. Her approach has positioned the Sherwood Park location as a flagship model, setting a new standard for workforce inclusion and challenging outdated stereotypes. Renee’s business standard proves inclusive hiring is an essential core business strategy, rather than an afterthought.

Heroism and Leadership

Lieutenant (Navy) Jason Finkbeiner
Lieutenant (Navy) Jason Finkbeiner is recognized for a lifetime of service to Strathcona County and Canada. As reflected by his numerous honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee medals, Jason demonstrates an unwavering commitment to community. From mentoring youth, supporting critical fundraising efforts and leading local Remembrance Day ceremonies, he serves with both strength and compassion.

Karl Grantmyre (Posthumous)
Karl Grantmyre is honoured posthumously for a lifetime of leadership in wildlife conservation and stewardship. A pioneer in rehabilitation, he helped save and return thousands of birds of prey to the wild. His innovative work helped set professional standards and shape international rehabilitation practices. His legacy lives on in the natural world and the bridges he built between people, wildlife and culture.

Outstanding Group

Music Society of Strathcona County (MSSC)
The Music Society of Strathcona County brings people together through shared musical experiences and community events. MSSC showcases local and Canadian talent, supports youth performers and contributes to the local economy by drawing visitors from across Alberta and beyond. From the Ravenwood Music Festival to ongoing programming, their work is a celebration of local talent, small business, volunteerism and community spirit.

Patchwork Quilters Guild
From its beginnings as a small group of women with a dream to help support those in need, the Patchwork Quilters Guild has grown into a community of nearly 90 members who create more than 200 quilts a year. Their quilts, offered to those facing hardship, are lovingly infused with comfort, care and dignity. Through quiet service and generosity, their quilts continue to wrap the community in unconditional warmth.

Service to Seniors

Doreen Tauber
Doreen Tauber has dedicated nearly two decades to supporting seniors with compassion and connection. Through her outreach and involvement with the Sherwood Park 55 Plus Club and Festival Place, she brings people together and strengthens a sense of belonging. Doreen is fondly regarded as someone who doesn’t just support healthy aging, she helps create a community where seniors thrive.

Kathy Fortunat
Kathy Fortunat’s leadership journey began at the bedside and has grown into decades of impact in seniors’ care. As CEO of Sherwood Care, she has championed compassionate, person‑centred care while leading transformative growth for the community. Kathy’s vision is guiding the construction of a facility that will double continuing care capacity and introduce 13 dedicated hospice/palliative care beds - the first of its kind in Strathcona County.

Mayor's Award

Kathryn Howden and Tracey Cyca
Kathryn Howden and Tracey Cyca have transformed food security in Strathcona County through bold, hands‑on leadership. Their work ensures people can access healthy food with dignity, while building strong partnerships and innovative programs. Their visionary leadership has culminated in the creation of the Nourish Centre, set to open in early 2027. This permanent, purpose‑built local facility will secure the future of food support in our community.