About NAIT  

Honorary Degree

Nominate an inspiring leader for NAIT's highest honour

An honorary degree is NAIT's highest recognition. It is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their field, community, or society through a lifetime of service and a commitment to bettering the world. 

This prestigious honour reflects NAIT's values by celebrating leaders who inspire innovation, champion lifelong learning, and drive positive change. It reinforces our dedication to recognizing excellence and connecting influential role models with our students, institution, and community. 

NAIT acknowledges excellence in three key areas: 

  1. Championing NAIT's Vision and Values: Exemplifies NAIT's vision, values, and promises in ways that extend beyond their field of expertise. Recipients are advocates for meaningful change and demonstrate a steadfast dedication to fostering inclusive, equitable, and diverse communities. 
  2. Advancing Learning and Lifelong Education: Honorees embody the spirit of polytechnic education and lifelong learning. They are champions of student success, catalysts for educational innovation, and inspirational figures within the NAIT community. 
  3. Driving Community Growth and Leadership: As exemplary leaders and citizens, recipients contribute through philanthropy, volunteerism, public service, or entrepreneurship. They inspire current and future graduates and empower others to achieve their potential. 

The Honorary Degree Committee reviews nominations, with recommendations vetted by NAIT’s Academic Council and Executive Management Committee. The Board of Governors selects the final award recipients.

 

Purpose of Nominations 

  • Acknowledging Excellence: By nominating someone, the NAIT community celebrates the achievements of those who have had a profound impact on their fields or society. 
  • Encouraging Broader Impact: Honorees often use their platforms to inspire others, extending NAIT's influence beyond the institution. 
  • Building Connections: Honorees strengthen ties between NAIT and key industries or sectors, fostering opportunities for collaboration and growth. 

Why it Matters 

Nomination is vital because it ensures NAIT continues to recognize a diverse range of impactful leaders. By nominating individuals, you play a part in aligning the institution's values with broader societal progress, encouraging future generations to strive for excellence. 

Nominate Your Candidate Today!

We invite all members of the NAIT community to nominate individuals who embody these qualities. 

Deadline: Wednesday, January 7, 2026


2025 Honorary Degree Recipients

Jun. 13, 2025

Jim Carter

An oil sands pioneer, this Honorary Bachelor of Technology in Management recipient helped revolutionize the industry, building community along the way.

Jun. 13, 2025

Brent Hesje

A long-time partner of NAIT, this Honorary Bachelor of Business Administration recipient led initiatives underpinning pivotal growth and development at the polytechnic.

Jun. 13, 2025

Carol Moen

An advocate for equal opportunities, this Honorary Bachelor of Technology in Management recipient fostered major gains for women and gender-diverse people in the trades.

Jun. 13, 2025

Holger Petersen

A NAIT grad from 1970, this Honorary Bachelor of Technology in Management recipient played a central role in championing and professionalizing Edmonton’s music community.

Previous Years Recipients

  • 2012 - Don Breen, Andrew Clark, Darren Entwistle
  • 2011 - Dr. Margaret-Ann Armour, Clifford Giese, Yasmin Jivraj
  • 2010 - Arlene Dickinson, Kevin Martin
  • 2009 - Laurence M. Pollock, Don Oborowsky
  • 2008 - Ruth Kelly, Don Metz
  • 2007 - JR Shaw, Kevin Nabholz
  • 2006 - JudyLynn Archer, John Stanton
  • 2005 - Audrey Poitras, Lynda Steele, Reg Isley
  • 2004 - Neil R. Wilkinson, C.J. (Cliff) Williams
  • 2003 - Simon Smotkowicz, Thelma Chalifoux
  • 2002 - Hon. Ernest C. Manning
  • 2001 - Cam Tait, Harry Buddle
  • 2000 - Eric Newell, Jim Edwards, Gil Cardinal
  • 1999 - Madeleine Mercier, Henry Gusse
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