Nominations now open for UPEI’s 2026 Founders awards

The University of Prince Edward Island is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Founders. Founders are members of the campus community—most often retired faculty and staff—who have contributed to UPEI’s mission in an exceptional way. Recognizing our Founders is an opportunity to celebrate our rich heritage and traditions, honouring those who have worked diligently and passionately to build the University into the highly regarded institution of higher education it is today.

Established by President Emeritus Wade MacLauchlan in 2000, the Founders award is presented to those who have played a direct role in 

• supporting the vision, reputation, and continued success of the University, and/or
• creating a new era of educational, research, and/or service excellence at the University. 

Typically, two to three nominees are selected each year to receive the Founder designation by a committee established for this purpose. Due scheduling conflicts, the 2025 Founders were recognized in February 2026, but this year the Recognition of Founders Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, marking its return to UPEI Homecoming (September 23–29).

If you wish to nominate someone as Founder, please fill out the online form or email your submission to communications@upei.ca. 

Anyone may submit a nomination, but please note that this award primarily acknowledges retired faculty and staff or UPEI community members. Current faculty and staff members are not eligible for the award. 

Emailed nominations should include your name, daytime telephone number, and relationship to the nominee along with the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the person you wish to nominate. Nominations are limited to 500 words in length and should address how the nominee meets the above criteria.

Previous nominations may be resubmitted for consideration. Completed nominations must be received by Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 11:59 pm AT. 

If you are interested in learning more about this award and past award winners, please visit the UPEI Founders web page.