Celebrating our UCalgary Olympians

Over the past 17 days, we have watched world‑class athletes represent their countries with heart, determination and extraordinary skill at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Italy. Like many of you, I followed their performances closely, and I felt tremendous pride knowing how many of these remarkable athletes are part of the University of Calgary community. 

We are fortunate to count several Olympians among our students, alumni and the international athletes who train year‑round at the Olympic Oval. Their dedication, passion and perseverance embody the spirit of UCalgary. I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to each of them. 

I’d like to personally congratulate Isabelle Weidemann, BSc’23, who won gold in speed skating. 

And kudos to Dinos Curling’s skill development coach Brett Gallant, who earned an Olympic gold medal in curling on the same weekend that Dinos Men’s Curling took home the U SPORTS Championship. 

I also want to acknowledge the contributions of our Olympic Oval director, Mark Messer, who brought his world‑class ice-making talents to Milano. 

Another standout moment was watching Brianne Jenner, MPP’17, help secure silver for Team Canada in a gripping, hard‑fought hockey game that was watched by so many Canadians. Her leadership and determination continue to inspire all of us. 

Lastly, I want to congratulate our freestyle skiers, bronze medallist Brendan Mackay, BSc’24, and Amy Fraser, BSc’16, for their breathtaking performances on the slopes. Clearly, Brendan is using his knowledge of physics for an edge up in the half-pipe. 

Beyond the podium, I remain deeply proud of every UCalgary and Oval‑trained athlete who competed in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. They represent the strength, resilience, and ambition that define our community. We will continue to support them, cheer for them and celebrate what they achieve next. 

The Olympic spirit will always be part of UCalgary. 

Congratulations to all our Olympians. You have made us proud! 

Ed McCauley, PhD, FRSC 
President and Vice‑Chancellor