The Award for Excellence in Aboriginal Relations is designed to recognize a Canadian who has contributed, through professional and voluntary commitments, to building bridges between Aboriginal people and Canadian society. Their efforts have made a substantial impact across Canada and across sectors, including the business sector.

We are pleased to announce that this year’s recipient of the Award for Excellence in Aboriginal Relations is Eric P. Newell, O.C. He was recognized, for his accomplishments in spearheading initiatives in Aboriginal education, training and employment, at CCAB’s 10th annual Vancouver Gala on September 27, 2012.

Eric P. Newell, O.C. set a trend for working with the Aboriginal community through his leadership of Imperial Oil and Syncrude. His leadership of Syncrude helped them to not only become a major player in the oil industry but also helped them to develop policies that reflected leading practices in corporate social responsibility; becoming one of the largest industrial employers of Aboriginal people in Canada. Newell’s personal life has also made great contributions to education and training, donating money to the University of Alberta to construct the Aboriginal Gathering Place and advocating for greater educational opportunities for Aboriginal people.