Former Cougar Max Turgeon is recognized with the President’s Student of the Year Award

As director of the Iniskim Centre for almost a decade and a leading voice within the Office of Indigenization and Decolonization, John Fischer has had a transformative impact at Mount Royal University. Bridging Western academic structures with Indigenous ways of knowing, John led the growth and institutional integration of the Iniskim Centre and helped shape MRU’s approach to truth, reconciliation and systemic change.

His vision was instrumental in securing MRU’s Ashoka Changemaking designation and co-creating Inii Awattoo, Mount Royal’s Indigenization and Decolonization Strategic Framework. Known for creative problem-solving, innovation and deep respect for cultural protocol, John has helped embed Indigenous practices across the University. His contributions include developing ceremonial gifting processes, Feeding the Fire — a storytelling-based guide for incorporating Indigenous practices into curriculum and workplace culture — and helping develop Mount Royal’s land acknowledgement.

He also represented MRU in signing the historic Buffalo Treaty at Kainai First Nation. In recognition of his leadership, Elder Calvin Williams honoured John and his office with the transfer of an eagle staff and coup stick, permanently embedding Treaty 7 representation in MRU’s official ceremonies.

At the heart of John’s work is relationship building. He has nurtured trusted connections with Elders, mentored colleagues, supported faculty in decolonizing coursework and expanded opportunities for Indigenous students. His leadership and service extend well beyond MRU into the broader community.

The Chancellor’s Distinguished Service Award recognizes John Fischer for his wisdom, advocacy and enduring contribution to creating spaces of respect, connection and belonging at Mount Royal and beyond.