2026 Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Student Award: ASBA Celebrates Nine Outstanding Students

Gregory is a Grade 11 student at Vilna School in Aspen View Public Schools. Gregory exemplifies leadership, resilience and genuine humility. He has shown remarkable perseverance, taking on additional responsibilities at home while maintaining a positive attitude, strong attendance and academic success. In a small-school setting, Gregory demonstrates exceptional self motivation, critical thinking and independence. He is actively involved in Robotics and STEM programs, serving as a mentor to younger students at divisional events. Known for his kindness and inclusivity, Gregory leads through service, supporting peers, staff and the wider school community.

Keiana is a Grade 11 student at Spruce Grove Composite High School in Parkland School Division. Over the past year and a half, Keiana embraced a turning point, demonstrating maturity and determination by taking ownership of her learning and future goals. Her transformation is a testament to perseverance, personal accountability and ambition. Keiana reflects the true spirit of growth by overcoming adversity, embracing responsibility and striving for a brighter future. Naturally kind, uplifting, and optimistic, Keiana contributes meaningfully to a supportive and inclusive school community.  

Madeleine is a Grade 11 student in École Notre-Dame des Monts in Conseil scolaire FrancoSud. Madeleine exemplifies academic leadership, athletic discipline and a strong commitment to mentorship. She consistently works to master concepts and challenges herself. After a serious cross country skiing accident, Madeleine demonstrated remarkable resilience by learning a new language and teaching herself piano during recovery. She prioritizes building positive relationships, celebrating her peers’ successes and encouraging their efforts. Madeleine also founded a lunchtime tutoring program, recruiting fellow tutors and coaches younger athletes, generously sharing her time, passion and leadership with the school and community.

Patience is a Grade 9 student at Northlands Online School in the Northland School Division. Patience embraces her culture, supports her peers and approaches learning with purpose and heart. Over the past year, Patience has shown meaningful growth in academic engagement and attendance, developing confidence through persistence and finding value in the “productive struggle” of learning. Her commitment to consistent learning has strengthened both her academic success and personal routines. A thoughtful communicator with a compassionate presence, Patience uplifts those around her and exemplifies leadership grounded in kindness, perseverance and deep respect for the learning journey.

Avery is a Grade 9 student at Rimbey Junior Senior High School in Wolf Creek Public Schools. Avery approaches learning with focus, determination and resilience, choosing persistence over discouragement time and time again. Avery has developed strong self advocacy skills, growing confidence and increasing independence in managing her learning, grounded in a belief that she can continue to grow. Her journey reflects both meaningful academic progress and notable personal maturity. Avery exemplifies how perseverance, initiative and inner strength can transform challenges into opportunities. Her positive attitude continues to inspire those around her.

Abigail is a Grade 9 student at MidSun School in the Calgary Board of Education. An engaged and inquisitive learner, Abigail approaches challenging coursework with curiosity, perseverance and maturity. She navigates challenges with strong self-awareness and resilience, developing personalized strategies that support both academic and social success. In doing so, she demonstrates that challenges are not limitations, they are simply part of her unique learning path. Abigail leads by example through quiet, service focused leadership. Evidenced by mentoring peers with genuine warmth and unwavering kindness, empathy and a deep commitment to growth.

Sarah is a Grade 6 student at École St. Mary School in Living Waters Catholic Separate School Division. As an English language learner, Sarah has demonstrated remarkable determination in her learning, often investing extra time to translate, study and seek additional support. She advocates confidently for her learning needs, approaches challenges with tenacity and leads by example. Her dedication has resulted in meaningful academic growth, strong organizational skills and consistently high standards of work. Sarah is also a caring and inclusive leader who supports peers academically and personally, welcoming others and fostering a positive classroom community. 

Natalia is a Grade 6 student at Good Shepherd School in the Edmonton Catholic School Division. She has demonstrated meaningful academic growth through perseverance, dedication and a strong commitment to learning. As a member of the Saints Leadership Team, Natalia helps lead school-wide initiatives, including spirit days, wellness activities and social justice efforts. Beyond school, she attends Ukrainian Heritage Language School of Edmonton and is involved with the Plast Ukrainian Youth Association and the Cheremosh School of Dance Academy Program, where she continues to grow as a dancer while contributing to a vibrant cultural community.

Zoey Birzgalis is a Grade 6 student at St. Benedict School in the Calgary Catholic School Division. Over the past year, she has demonstrated notable academic growth, particularly in mathematics, through dedication, resilience and a positive attitude toward learning. Beyond academics, Zoey is committed to supporting others through a mentor program for students with diverse and complex needs. In this role, she demonstrates patience, empathy and respect, helping ensure students feel valued and included. Zoey leads by example and makes a meaningful contribution to a caring and inclusive school community.