Renowned archaeologist Robert Dawe to be granted honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:52:07 +0000

A leading Alberta archaeologist and assistant curator at the Royal Alberta Museum, Robert (Bob) Dawe has had an enviable career, conducting fieldwork throughout Alberta, notably at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Writing-On-Stone, and also across the Arctic from Alaska to Baffin Island, in Ontario and even China. For his devotion to preserving the history of Alberta, his passion for archaeology and enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge with Albertans, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will present Dawe with an honorary degree at Spring 2026 Convocation.

“Robert Dawe’s dedication to uncovering Alberta’s rich history is only matched by his commitment to engaging the public and educating how important it is to preserve our past,” says ULethbridge Chancellor Terry Whitehead (BA ’94). “His integral work with Indigenous communities has opened a window into history and emboldened Indigenous voices to embrace the interpretive process, benefitting all Albertans.”

Robert Dawe's work has been integral in educating Albertans about the province's rich history.

Dawe will be bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at Spring 2026 Convocation, Ceremony II, Thursday, May 28, at 2:30 p.m. in the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness.

Robert (Bob) Dawe

With his considerable field experience, Robert Dawe’s involvement in archaeological projects has made him a leading expert in ancient Alberta heritage, extending back to the earliest Indigenous occupations. While his research and public outreach have taken him all over the province in his role working for the Royal Alberta Museum, his varied contributions to the southern Alberta archaeological record are noteworthy.

This participation includes surveying and documenting rock art at Writing-On-Stone, ongoing monitoring of the St. Mary Dam, working on the archaeological impact assessment of the mining heritage of the Crowsnest Pass, and more than four decades of involvement at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. His contributions include using photogrammetry to document rock art at Writing-On-Stone and retrieving a huge 1,600-year-old roasting pit from Head-Smashed-In for display. With his research and contribution to the development of the interpretive program at Head-Smashed-In, Dawe has built strong relationships with the interpretive centre staff, members of the Piikani and Kainai communities, and ranchers in the area. He supported the Blackfoot staff in their interpretation of archaeological materials and their engagement with the public, in a practice that has since become known as Indigenous Archaeology, where Indigenous voices are welcomed as part of the interpretive process, benefiting the entire community.

Dawe’s involvement at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump has also had an important effect on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and its students. He has served as co-director of the current field school there, organized by ULethbridge archaeology professors Drs. Shawn Bubel and Kevin McGeough. With his endless patience, many students come to see him as a mentor because he puts their education first.

Dawe’s knowledge of ancient technology has led to numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference papers. His research approach is innovative and driven by his curiosity about how people lived in the past. His passion for archaeology knows no bounds, and Albertans are richer because of it.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge honorary degree recipients represent service and excellence

trevor.kenney — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:58:03 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will honour six influential individuals with honorary degrees in 2026, recognizing leaders in diverse fields such as archaeology, education, the arts, business, justice and philanthropy.

“The individuals who have been chosen this year to be honoured reflect the values of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and bring to life what it means to effect change and better society,” says ULethbridge Chancellor Terry Whitehead (BA ’94). “Whether it’s through their chosen careers, their commitment to community, their stature as thought leaders, they are all invested in contributing positively to humanity and we’re excited to recognize their accomplishments.”

Archaeologist Robert (Bob) Dawe, artist Faye HeavyShield, community advocate Knud Petersen and Justice Derek Redman will be granted honorary degrees as part of Spring 2026 Convocation (May 28-29). The late Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84), former ULethbridge Board of Governors Chair, will be honoured at a private ceremony on May 30, while Cheryl Misak (BASc (BA) ’83) will be recognized at Fall 2026 Convocation (Oct. 17).

“I am really looking forward to the upcoming convocation ceremonies and the addresses of our honorees,” adds Whitehead. “I am always eager to learn from successful leaders of society, to understand their world view and what motivates them in their daily lives. I know our graduating class and those who attend the ceremonies will leave inspired by their words.”

The following are the honorees:

Robert (Bob) Dawe

Faye HeavyShield

A visual artist, cultural worker, mentor and teacher, Faye HeavyShield has earned national and international acclaim for her artistic works that are deeply connected to her Blackfoot culture, a practice she is eager to share with youth and emerging artists to help preserve Blackfoot ways of knowing.

Cheryl Misak (BA ’83)

Dr. Cheryl Misak, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s first Rhodes Scholar, has achieved global recognition for her contributions to the world of philosophy through the highest standards of scholarship and numerous publications, and as an academic who has served as vice-president and provost at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Toronto.

Knud Petersen

Whether it be fundraising, volunteering or simply offering his infectious smile as support, Knud Petersen consistently shows up for his community as an influential driver of local spirit, philanthropy and well-being, always willing to do the heavy work and make a better society for all.

Justice Derek Redman

The Honourable Justice Derek Redman is a distinguished Alberta jurist recognized for his exemplary judicial leadership, his dedication to public legal education and community service, and his unwavering advocacy for a justice system that is accessible, culturally informed, and responsive to the communities it serves.

Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84)

A respected member of the southern Alberta business community, decorated chartered professional accountant and former Chair of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors, Dean Gallimore effected long-lasting change in his community, advocated for post-secondary education and created pathways to success for the next generation of students. Gallimore unexpectedly passed away during his term as Chair of the Board of Governors, and this is the first posthumous degree awarded by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Senate.

For more information on Spring 2026 Convocation, visit ulethbridge.ca/convocation/spring-2026-information.

UNews - Robert Dawe

Renowned archaeologist Robert Dawe to be granted honorary degree

Related Topics

��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge honorary degree recipients represent service and excellence

Related Topics

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge honorary degree recipients represent service and excellence