SASKATOON — Saskatchewan Polytechnic has recognized Kelly Lendsay with an honorary degree in Applied Studies at its Saskatoon campus convocation.
Lendsay is a highly respected Indigenous leader and social entrepreneur. He is a Canadian innovator and organizational development expert in Indigenous employment, workplace and economic innovation strategies.
“We proudly recognize Kelly’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to improving Indigenous employment opportunities across Canada,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech. “Kelly is a skilled communicator and facilitator, building partnerships and bridges between corporations and the Indigenous community. His dedication to advancing Indigenous inclusion and unlocking the full potential of Indigenous talent for companies across Canada is truly inspiring."
In 2020, Lendsay launched Luminary, a project to advance Indigenous innovation for economic transformation, employment and wellbeing. Luminary was one of 24 initiatives awarded funding from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s Strategic Science Fund. The program brings together academia, research agencies and Indigenous businesses to strengthen the Indigenous innovation ecosystem, drive economic growth and support job creation through research and innovation.
More recently, Lendsay was one of eight Indigenous leaders who contributed to the development of the National Indigenous Economic Development Strategy. In 2023, he joined the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management’s Institute for Corporate Directors as an adjunct instructor, where he led the inaugural session on Indigenous Governance and Reconciliation.
Honouring individuals for their distinguished achievements is a longstanding convocation tradition at Sask Polytech. Honorary degree recipients model the institution’s vision and values. The contributions made by the members of this influential group help to empower a better Saskatchewan and inspire success in every learning journey.
— Submitted by Sask. Polytech Media Relations
