The University of Alberta has announced that an honorary degree will be bestowed upon former Alberta premier Ed Stelmach in a convocation ceremony this month. In 2006, Ed Stelmach took office as the first Ukrainian Canadian premier of Alberta. Through years of public service, Stelmach was a tireless supporter of the Ukrainian Canadian community of Alberta. His success story is an inspiration for Ukrainian and Non-Ukrainian Canadians alike.

The University of Alberta released this statement:

“Former Alberta premier Ed Stelmach’s 25 years of public service were marked by a commitment to leadership and integrity. A lifelong farmer, Stelmach began his run in politics in 1986 as a municipal councillor for Lamont County before being named reeve a year later. Stelmach entered provincial politics in 1993 when he was elected as a member of the legislative assembly for the riding of Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville. As MLA, he led four ministries, including infrastructure (1999-2001), and supported the creation of the Health Research Innovation Facilities—now the Li Ka Shing and Katz Group centres—that have been instrumental in attracting top-tier talent to our community. Stelmach became premier after winning his party’s leadership race in 2006 and went on to win the general election in 2008. As premier, Stelmach supported efforts to end homelessness and create affordable housing. He also recognized the importance of diversifying the economy and seeking global leadership to help shape the province’s future.”

The honorary “doctor of laws” degree will be presented to Ed Stelmach at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium on June 11th, 2013 at 3:00pm as part of the elementary education convocation ceremony. Stelmach is among 10 other recipients being honored by the University this spring.