On June 18, Dr. Clarence Wolfleg Sr. was presented with an honorary diploma during the Spring 2025 convocation ceremony, in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to education and Bow Valley College. As an elder, knowledge keeper, and advocate, Dr. Wolfleg Sr. plays a vital role within the college community, providing guidance and support to Indigenous students, staff, faculty, and the wider college community.

Dr. Wolfleg Sr. is from the Siksika Nation, and is known by his traditional name Miiksika’am, which translates to “Red Crane”. Through his teachings at the college, he has shaped classroom discussions, enriched Indigenous education, and fostered a sense of community. Dr. Wolfleg Sr. along with other dedicated community champions, played a foundational role in launching the Open Doors – Open Minds campaign – an initiative committed to removing barriers to education and ensuring access and affordability for students now, and into the future. “Dr. Clarence Wolfleg Sr. has been a mentor and friend of the college for decades.” say Dr. Misheck Mwaba, President and CEO, Bow Valley College. “His teachings have helped bridge the gap between diverse cultures, laying the foundation for amore unified and empathetic academic environment.”

Dr. Wolfleg Sr.’s contributions to the college and our students have been deeply meaningful and instrumental as we continue to learn and strengthen our capacity to engage with Indigenous communities in reciprocal and respectful ways. Through ceremony, he has blessed students, gifted traditional Blackfoot names to members of the college, and shared his powerful story of resilience and strength. “His leadership has been instrumental in the development of Bow Valley College’s Indigenous Framework, known as Iikaakiimaat – a Blackfoot word meaning “to do your best” – which will officially launch in August 2025.” says Dr. Maurice Manyfingers, Director, Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation. “In addition, Dr. Wolfleg Sr. gifted Bow Valley College with a traditional Blackfoot honor song in 2023, which has since become a cherished part of the college’s convocation ceremonies.” A distinguished member of Canada’s military, Dr. Wolfleg Sr. was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medallion in March 2025 during a ceremony at Mount Royal University.

Bow Valley College remains deeply grateful for the profound and lasting impact Dr. Wolfleg Sr. continues to have to this day.