Driven by a deep-rooted conviction that education serves as the foundation to success, Lorne Gladu (Management Studies ’96, University Transfer, Bachelor of Arts ’92) has dedicated his career to ensuring Métis in Alberta have access and the supports they need to pursue higher learning.
In recognition of his passionate advocacy, Gladu will be presented with an honorary doctorate at MacEwan University’s Spring 2023 convocation. This isn’t the first time Gladu has been honoured by MacEwan – he was also a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient in 2007.
“It is an honour to add Lorne Gladu to our roster of honorary doctorate recipients,” says MacEwan President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Annette Trimbee. “His exceptional advocacy and his dedicated, hands-on efforts to provide educational opportunities for Métis individuals – and to deepen the understanding of Métis topics for educators – has truly made our province a better, more inclusive, understanding place.”
MacEwan University awards honorary doctorates to individuals with significant achievements in their field of expertise.
Throughout his long, multifaceted career in the public service, Gladu has been a tireless champion for education. As the founding CEO of the Rupertsland Institute Métis Centre of Excellence, Gladu has empowered Métis citizens in Alberta through a variety of education, training and research supports, creating a ripple effect that will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of Métis citizens for generations to come.
His perseverance and advocacy resulted in the establishment of the Rupertsland Centre for Métis Research at the University of Alberta, and the Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning, respectively designed to bridge the academic gap in Métis research and to bring foundational knowledge themes about the Métis to the classroom, including education resources and professional development opportunities to Alberta teachers.
Gladu’s leadership in human resources development over the past 25 years led to thousands of trained Métis citizens finding employment across Alberta, and his partnership with post-secondary institutions through the Métis Education Foundation established 21 endowments for Métis scholars pursuing a higher education in Alberta. A true visionary, community leader and bridge-builder, Gladu is a tireless advocate for Métis people in general, and Métis learners in particular.
Spring Convocation will occur at the Winspear Centre from June 20 to 22, 2023. Gladu will receive his honorary doctorate and address the class during the ceremony on June 21 at 9:30 a.m.