Parkland Alumni Awards to celebrate Assiniboine alumni, educators

Assiniboine College’s Alumni Association is excited to announce the three alumni award recipients from the Parkland region, recognized for their contribution to the community and Assiniboine students.

This year's recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award for Parkland is Twyla Gilroy. The award is presented annually to a graduate of the college who has distinguished themselves in both their chosen profession and their community.

A 2003 Applied Counselling Skills graduate, Twyla Gilroy lives in Dauphin with her husband and their three adult sons. When she first enrolled at Assiniboine, Twyla was an at‑home mother seeking something that was just for her. Her time at Assiniboine provided a meaningful outlet and gave her confidence to pursue her Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Manitoba.

Today, Twyla is a dedicated member of a pediatric FASD diagnostic team and notes that she is honoured to walk alongside families as they navigate assessments. She is passionate about sharing knowledge, reducing stigma, and supporting women. A committed community volunteer, she serves with Canadian Mental Health Association Swan Valley, the Parkland Crisis Centre, the Harm Reduction Network, and the Manitoba FASD Coalition Inc. Twyla values the lasting relationships built through her studies at Assiniboine and encourages graduates to stay open to learning, opportunities, and community involvement.

Also being recognized, with the Excellence in Education award, are adult education instructors Lance Maxwell and Jonathan Nadolny. This award honours staff members from the Parkland campus for extraordinary contributions to teaching and the student experience.

Both Maxwell and Nadolny are instructors in the Centre for Adult Learning at Parkland campus and have been integral to the success of a generation of adult learners in Dauphin and area. Maxwell and Nadolny have worked to foster deep connections with learners and are often the springboard for students considering further study and new careers as a result of studying at Assiniboine.

“This year’s award recipients have not only excelled in their fields, but they’ve also inspired future graduates by demonstrating the impact an Assiniboine education can have on your future.” said Jayden Lamb, Chairperson of Assiniboine College’s Alumni Association. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements and to have them as part of our alumni family.”

The three recipients will be recognized as part of the Assiniboine College Parkland Alumni Association Awards on February 11 at the Watson Arts Centre in Dauphin. Cocktails begin at 5 p.m. with a dinner and awards ceremony to follow. For more information and to purchase tickets, please email [email protected] or call 204.622.2222.