Calgary recognizes community leadership with Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award

The Calgary Aboriginal Urban Advisory Committee (CAUAC), in partnership with The City of Calgary, is pleased to announce that Roy Bear Chief has been recognized as the 2026 recipient of the Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award. The ceremony took place at the Municipal Building Atrium. The award honours individuals who have made significant contributions to building understanding and strengthening relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Roy Bear Chief — Oom ka pisi (Big Coyote) — is a Siksika Nation Elder, social worker and residential school survivor whose life and work reflect resilience, leadership and service. Known as an “Espoom tah,” or helper, Bear Chief has dedicated himself to supporting others through mentorship, teaching and community connection. Bear Chief’s commitment to lifelong learning is a defining part of his journey. He completed his high school equivalency at age 40, went on to earn a Social Work Diploma from Mount Royal University at 46, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary at 51, and a Master of Social Work at 56. He has served as Elder-in-Residence at Mount Royal University’s Bissett School of Business, where he has helped integrate Indigenous perspectives into learning while supporting students, faculty and staff. Beyond academia, Bear Chief has contributed to work on social innovation, poverty reduction, age inclusion and equitable health care, while also promoting Blackfoot language and culture. His contributions have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Mount Royal University Alumni Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, and honorary doctorate degrees from both the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University. “Roy Bear Chief’s leadership and generosity have had a lasting impact on the people and communities he has worked with,” said Terry Poucette, CAUAC co-chair. “Through his work, he continues to build understanding and strengthen relationships in Calgary and beyond.” The Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award is named in honour of Chief David Crowchild, a respected leader known for his efforts to bring people together and foster mutual respect.