The University of Winnipeg and the Alumni Association are proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards, an inspiring group of leaders whose impact reaches far beyond their professions and into the heart of their communities.
The recipients for 2026 are:
Outstanding Achievement: Lieutenant-General R. Ray Crabbe (Ret.), CMM, MSC, MSM, CD (BSc 66)
When you serve with honour, UWIN
Devoting his life to distinguished service and leadership, Ray join the Canadian Army and attended United College – now the University of Winnipeg – in 1963. His 40-year military career saw him rise through the ranks, assuming a succession of senior leadership and command appointments across Canada, the United States, Germany, Cyprus and the Balkans. His career culminated in the rank of Lieutenant-General and his appointment as Canada’s Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff – one of the most senior and respected positions in the Canadian Armed Forces. In retirement, Ray continues to consult and advise on matters related to national security and service to others.
Community Impact: Janet McMahon (BA 83)
When you break barriers, UWIN
From her time as a student-athlete to her distinguished career in sport leadership and administration, Janet dedicated her life to creating accessible and inclusive sport opportunities for all. For more than 40 years, she helped shape sport at the community, provincial, national and international levels, including leadership roles with the 1999 Pan American Games and 2017 Canada Games. As the first female President and CEO of Sport Manitoba, Janet championed equitable participation and promoted sport as a powerful tool for building communities.
Community Impact: Kevin Chief (BA 98)
When leadership lifts communities, UWIN
Kevin Chief (BA 98) is a proud Minegoziibe Anishinabe from Winnipeg’s North End whose leadership has made a lasting impact in sport, public service, and community development. From his days as a Wesmen men’s basketball student-athlete, to his role as MLA for Point Douglas, he has earned respect for his inclusive and community-centered leadership. As cofounder of the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre (WASAC), and advocate for stronger communities through his roles with True North Sport and Entertainment and Southern Chiefs Organization, he continues inspire and empower the next generation by creating opportunities for Indigenous youth through sport and mentorship.
One to Watch: Marika Schalla (BSc 17, BEd 19, PBDE 23)
When knowledge comes from the land, UWIN
A proud Metis and Ansihinaabe woman, Marika’s work is grounded in a deep connection to her culture and community. As a teacher and author, she is committed to using land-based education and storytelling as tools for healing in truth and reconciliation. Previous recognition for her work includes being a finalist for the Future Leaders of Manitoba and recipient of the Indspire Guiding the Journey Educator Award, International Gold Medal Anthem Award, and the Winnipeg 150 Medal. Marika leads by example, empowering young people to reclaim their heritage, language, and identities to pursue their dreams.
“We are honoured to celebrate these remarkable alumni and the many ways they are strengthening their communities and inspiring change,” said Danielle Dunbar, Vice-President, University Advancement. “Each recipient reflects the leadership, passion, and determination that define the UWinnipeg community, while serving as a powerful example to current and future students of what is possible.”
Everyone is invited to join us on October 29, 2026, for the Distinguished Alumni Award night at the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Quamajuq. Visit the Distinguished Alumni Awards page to learn more and purchase your tickets to the event.
