Two long-time volunteers from west central Saskatchewan were among 15 recipients awarded the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal during a ceremony at Government House this morning, as part of National Volunteer Week.
Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre presented the medals to honour individuals whose contributions have made lasting impacts in their communities.
“It is an honour to recognize these recipients who tirelessly donate their time and talents to so many worthy causes in our province,” McIntyre said. “Their generous spirit and wholehearted participation are an inspiration for us all.”
Sandi Lougheed of Beechy, a retired teacher and long-time leader with Royal Purple, was recognized for her advocacy and leadership in brain injury awareness and prevention. Lougheed has served as National President of the charitable organization and now chairs the Saskatchewan Royal Purple Charity Partnership Committee. She also played a key role in coordinating the Al Howie Tomorrow Run across Canada in 1990. Her decades of service have left a legacy in both her local community and beyond.
Rob Rongve, a well-known community leader in North Battleford, was honoured for his significant contributions to civic development and community well-being. Rongve chaired the $10-million campaign that led to the construction of the Battlefords Recreation & Cultural Centre and co-chaired the 2018 Saskatchewan Winter Games. He has held leadership roles on several boards, including the Battlefords Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and the Dekker Centre. Rongve also chaired the Battlefords Immigration Resource Centre and multiple local fundraising campaigns. He is a recipient of both the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond and Platinum Jubilee Medals.
The Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal was established in 1995 to mark the province’s 90th anniversary and to honour its strong culture of volunteerism. Including this year’s honourees, 286 individuals have now received the province’s highest honour for volunteer service.
Other recipients include:
- Valerie Bidaux, Eastend
- William Brooks, Saskatoon
- Creighton (Wayne) Cameron, Moose Jaw
- Brenda Corman, Saskatoon
- Audrey and Rod Euteneier, Regina
- John Grant, Regina
- Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret'd) Lyle Johnson, O.M.M., C.D., Moose Jaw
- Harvey Linnen, Regina
- Oswald Lutz, Lanigan
- Dr. Bruce Neill, Indian Head
- Laura Poppy, Indian Head
- Jayne C.M. Whyte, Regina
Nominations for the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal are now open until October 31. For more information or to nominate someone, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/honoursawards.