Gary W. Harris - 2021 Alumni Legacy Award Recipient

At the 2022 Community Awards on October 20, philanthropist Gary W. Harris was posthumously named the recipient of the 2021 Red Deer Polytechnic Alumni Legacy Award. 

Harris has made a tremendous impact in the city of Red Deer, the region, and at Red Deer Polytechnic. Always conducting himself with integrity, Harris committed his career to law and business, while prioritizing family and volunteerism.  

Born in Manitoba, Harris and his family moved to Red Deer when he was young, and this was where Harris’ leadership qualities and community involvement began to evolve. He became the first Student Council President at Lindsay Thurber High School and eventually attended Red Deer College for two years.  

Harris reflected fondly on his time at Red Deer College, which included meeting influential instructors and classmates and playing basketball for the Kings.  

In 1978, Harris graduated near the top of his class from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Law degree and was quickly recruited to article for a prestigious law firm in Edmonton.  

As a result of his vibrant personality and range of talents, Harris was asked to be a sessional instructor at both the University of Alberta and Red Deer College. He excelled at teaching and mentoring post-secondary students. 

When Harris returned to Red Deer, he served his community and province on many boards and committees. Through his expertise, Harris significantly contributed to the Wildrose Foundation, Red Deer Community Foundation, and Piper Creek Optimist Club of Red Deer. He was Director of the Canadian Farm and Industrial Equipment Institute, and a board member of Alberta Farm Implement Board, Cervus Equipment Corporation, and Collicutt Energy. 

As President and Owner/Partner of Westward Parts, Harris created a family-like culture. His generous outreach resulted in Westward Parts sponsoring and supporting many community initiatives. 

Through his philanthropy, Harris has provided support for Red Deer Polytechnic Athletics and the post-secondary institution’s Education students, through a scholarship to honour his mother, who was a teacher. The gift of $5 million from Harris and his wife Ruth is honoured with the vibrant Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre on main campus. He was very proud of the facility’s ability to grow academic and athletic opportunities for learners in the region. 

Harris was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, and his legacy lives on in central Alberta.