2025 Honorary Degree Recipient
Honorary Degrees and the Order of the University of Calgary Recipients
The Office of the Chancellor and Senate bestows two prestigious awards during convocation each term for people making an impact in our community and around the world: Honorary Degrees and the Order of the University of Calgary.
Carlene Donnelly
Conferral and address – Friday, June 6, 9:30 a.m. ceremony
Carlene Donnelly served as CEO of CUPS Calgary Society from 2003 to 2024, leading its transformation into one of Canada’s most respected social service organizations. Under her leadership, CUPS grew from a grassroots charity into a $17.4 million, multi-service agency offering trauma-informed, science-driven supports in health, housing, and child development.
Donnelly’s innovative, two-generational approach to care — rooted in research and accountability — redefined how services for vulnerable populations are delivered. She spearheaded two successful capital campaigns, launched groundbreaking tools like the CUPS Resiliency Assessment, and helped position CUPS as a national leader in impact and innovation.
A respected advisor to government, academia, and community initiatives, Donnelly has shaped policy and practice across sectors. Her work has earned widespread acclaim, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal and four consecutive Top 10 Impact Charity designations from Charity Intelligence.
Her legacy continues in the lives changed and systems transformed by her vision.