RDP celebrates valued partners at 2023 Community Awards

Earlier today, Red Deer Polytechnic celebrated its 2023 Community Awards which honour the meaningful impact of individuals, partners and alumni who contribute to the success of RDP and its students. 

"Red Deer Polytechnic is fortunate have such a strong and vital community of supporters and champions who genuinely care about the future of our institution and its students,” says Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic. “These awards recognize the individuals and organizations who have helped us deepen our economic and social impact through their selfless contributions and partnership.” 

At the ceremony, the following award recipients were honoured: 

• Lyn Radford - G.H. Dawe Memorial Award of Excellence 
  • Lyn Radford is known for her unparalleled and passionate dedication as a community builder and leader. She has contributed to the success of many organizations in support of central Albertans. Her commitment to RDP includes past service as a member of the Board of Governors, and Chairing the 2019 Canada Winter Games Host Society, which contributed to the construction of the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre. Lyn also received an Honorary Degree from RDP in 2019. 
• Gord Inglis - Alumni Legacy Award (awarded posthumously) 
  • Gord contributed to the Polytechnic community for 32 years in a variety of capacities. He served as an instructor, chairperson, athletic director and volleyball coach. Through his leadership and ability to forge positive connections, Gord made a positive impact on his students, colleagues, student-athletes, institution and community. Gord passed away on May 27, 2023, but his legacy lives on. 
• Rieley Kay – Distinguished Alumni Award 
  • As an RDP alum and co-owner of Cilantro & Chive, Rieley has dedicated his time and expertise to support education, charitable causes and communities. Since graduating from RDP in 2010, Rieley has remained closely connected to the institution in several ways, including as a member of the RDP Alumni Association Board of Directors. Through Cilantro & Chive’s Burger of the Month program, Rieley has contributed more than $140,000 to local charities. 
• Hockey Alberta – Community Partner Award 
  • Through Hockey Alberta and the Polytechnic’s partnership, RDP students, athletes and community members have benefited. When Hockey Alberta relocated to the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, the organization had the opportunity to use an inclusive, world-class space as its Provincial Training Centre. This partnership has also facilitated collaborative programming initiatives, along with practicum and field placement opportunities, for Red Deer Polytechnic learners. 

For the past 60 years, community members, alumni and partners have enriched Red Deer Polytechnic and the experiences of its learners, as well as creating a positive impact felt across Alberta and beyond. Each year, RDP is pleased to acknowledge these contributions during its annual Community Awards celebration. These contributions have come in a variety of forms, including through volunteerism, financial support and offering work-integrated learning opportunities to students.