This year marks 20 years since Saskatchewan Polytechnic awarded its first honorary credential. This longstanding tradition recognizes remarkable individuals for their distinguished achievements and for modelling the institution’s vision and values. The contributions made by the members of this influential group help cultivate an educational environment focused on applied learning and innovative research to empower a better Saskatchewan and inspire success in every learning journey.
The recipient of the Sask Polytech, Regina Campus honorary degree in Applied Studies is Cadmus Delorme from Cowessess First Nation.
Delorme is the former chief of Cowessess First Nation. He was elected chief in 2016 at the age of 34. Three years later he was re-elected to a second term. Under his leadership, Cowessess First Nation has focused on political sovereignty, economic self-sustainability, and has moved forward on renewable energy, agriculture and efficiency in land use initiatives that have created both current and future business opportunities.
In 2021, Delorme faced one of his most challenging moments as chief when Cowessess First Nation made headlines with the validation of unmarked graves near the former Marieval Indian Residential School—a project which Sask Polytech researchers had the honour to assist with. Shortly after, Cowessess First Nation made headlines again as the first First Nation to sign an agreement with Ottawa and the Province of Saskatchewan that returns jurisdiction over children in care to the First Nation. Federal legislation overhauling Indigenous child welfare was passed in 2019 and came into force last year.
Earlier this year Cadmus Delorme was selected as the chairperson of the new Residential School Documents Advisory Committee.
“We are proud to recognize Cadmus’ exceptional accomplishments and extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honour,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. “You are an inspiring leader and role model for our students. We look forward to your continued leadership in the area of Truth and Reconciliation in the years to come.”
Congratulations on your honorary degree Cadmus!
Since the first honorary diploma was awarded in 2003, Sask Polytech has been recognizing extraordinary individuals who model the institution's vision and values.
View past recipients online.
Published June 2023.