On Friday, December 12, Dr. Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor of MacEwan University, received the James Carter Indigenous Leader Award from CAREERS: The Next Generation, an industry-led public/private not-for-profit foundation that brings together industry, schools, government and communities to guide youth into successful career paths.
Dr. Trimbee, who is Red River Métis, was recognized for her outstanding contributions as a leader in education. Her career spans senior roles in government and higher education, including serving as deputy minister of advanced education. She later became president and vice-chancellor of the University of Winnipeg and now leads MacEwan University. Throughout her career, Dr. Trimbee has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating and expanding opportunities for Indigenous youth to pursue their academic and career goals.
“It means a lot to be receiving the James Carter Indigenous Leader Award. It’s important to celebrate what Indigenous youth are accomplishing,” said Dr. Trimbee. “As a university president, my role is to foster an environment where Indigenous youth can see themselves in post-secondary education and feel fully supported to succeed. I’m inspired by the progress that’s been made to support Indigenous students and proud to witness it every day at MacEwan.”
During her tenure as president and vice-chancellor, Dr. Trimbee has had the privilege of witnessing kihêw waciston, MacEwan’s Indigenous Student Centre, grow and thrive under the leadership of individuals like Terri Cardinal, associate vice-president, Indigenous Initiatives and Engagement. Through initiatives like student mentorship, the introduction of Canada’s first Indigegogy minor and increased Indigenous representation across faculties through innovative cross-appointments, MacEwan has become a place where Indigenous knowledge, culture and perspectives are not only acknowledged but embedded in the institution’s identity.
“Dr. Trimbee’s leadership reflects a deep and personal commitment to creating pathways of opportunity for Indigenous youth,” said Eric Newell, co-founder of CAREERS: The Next Generation. “Her leadership is rooted in relationships and respect. She has guided the university in responding meaningfully to the Calls to Action.”
The James Carter Indigenous Leader Award recognizes an Indigenous-identifying individual whose outstanding efforts have made a significant impact on Indigenous youth and their communities. It is named after Jim Carter, co-founder of CAREERS: The Next Generation, and a significant advocate for Indigenous hiring and business development. During his decade as president of Syncrude, the oil sands giant became the single largest employer of Indigenous people in Alberta. The award is given to individuals who support Indigenous youth in career exploration and skill development and who have a positive impact on Indigenous communities.
“Our organizations have similar missions – to help those in our community find their calling and be given an opportunity to flourish,” says Dr. Trimbee. “I have worked directly on many occasions with CAREERS – I cherish what we have accomplished so far and what we will do in the future.”
Watch a video from CAREERS: The Next Generation about the award and Dr. Trimbee: