Nominations are open for IPAC’s Established Leader Award, and we need your help in recognizing the exceptional individuals who have shaped Canadian public administration through years of dedicated service.
This award honours leaders whose longstanding contributions have had a meaningful impact and benefited the public interest. Furthermore, those who reflect the ideals of public service and inspire trust, integrity, and excellence in their respective fields.
If you know someone who fits this description, click here to nominate them today!
The final deadline for nominations is 11:59pm on April 28th, 2025.
Need some inspiration? Take a look at what past award winners have accomplished:
2024: Carlene Alexander (Ontario Treasury Board Secretariat)
Deputy Alexander is recognized for her leadership in driving efficiency, collaboration, and inclusivity across Ontario’s public service. As Deputy Minister of Infrastructure, she led a major transformation, restructuring the ministry to support its growing mandate while advancing key initiatives like the New Deal for Toronto and broadband expansion. She has also championed real estate optimization, cost savings, and increased transparency, including launching an interactive high-speed internet map. Her commitment to inclusive leadership is evident in her work on anti-racism initiatives, mentorship programs, and cultural transformation efforts that have strengthened belonging and innovation within the public sector.
2024: Dr. Akolisa Ufodike (Alberta Immigration and Multiculturalism)
Dr. Akolisa Ufodike’s initiatives for IPAC’s Established Leader Award showcase his impact on public policy, education, and leadership. As a professor and Deputy Minister, he has shaped future leaders through teaching, mentorship, and research on accountability and diversity. His work on board diversity earned a prestigious SSHRC grant, and he has mentored hundreds of racialized students while contributing to university governance. Recognized by Princess Anne for his leadership efforts, Dr. Ufodike continues to influence Canada’s next generation of public sector leaders.
2023: Christian Schmidt (Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service)
Chief Christian Schmidt’s Established Leader Award nomination recognizes his transformative leadership in public safety, workforce wellness, and operational excellence within the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. He has prioritized workplace culture by implementing the Diversity Equity Fire Training program, expanding mental health resources, and strengthening partnerships with unions to support employee well-being. Under his leadership, WFPS has achieved Safe Work certification, launched a behavioral health unit, and introduced innovative programs such as PPE contamination control to reduce firefighter exposure to carcinogens. His commitment to inclusion, psychological safety, and emergency preparedness has significantly improved service delivery and employee engagement across the department.
2022: Kevin Richter (BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure)
Kevin Richter’s Established Leader Award recognizes his decades of dedication, innovation, and leadership in public service. As associate deputy minister of the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, he has led critical emergency responses, including reopening major highways after the 2021 atmospheric river disaster in record time. His leadership in infrastructure, reconciliation with Indigenous communities, and modernization of government processes has strengthened public trust and improved outcomes across the province. Kevin’s ability to inspire action, foster collaboration, and drive solutions has made a lasting impact on BC’s transportation sector and beyond.