2026 Levene Dinner Inspires Saskatchewan Leaders
Business leaders, alumni, students, staff, faculty, and community partners gathered at the Conexus Arts Centre in Regina for the 2026 Levene Dinner hosted by the Hill Levene School of Business at the University of Regina with the support of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce.
The 2026 Levene Dinner was an evening of powerful conversations, meaningful connections, new ideas and inspiration.
A Conversation That Set the Tone for the Evening
The evening opened with an exclusive Leaders Council conversation with keynote speaker Michael Clemons, moderated by David Belof, Vice Chair at Deloitte.
A moment that deeply resonated with the audience was Clemons’ reflection on his mother and the role she played in shaping his future despite significant hardships and challenges. The room grew noticeably quiet as he spoke about her strength, sacrifices, and belief in education.
Leadership often begins long before titles and accomplishments — with the people who encourage us, guide us, and help us believe in ourselves.
Networking, Community, and Saskatchewan Business Leaders
Following the conversation, guests gathered for a networking reception that brought together leaders from across Saskatchewan’s business community.
The reception created space for alumni reconnecting with classmates, students meeting industry leaders, and community partners building new relationships. Conversations continued throughout the evening as guests shared ideas, experiences, and a common interest in the future of business and leadership in Saskatchewan.
The dinner program was hosted by Miriam Johnson, CEO of WESK and winner of the 2026 Women of Distinction Award, who welcomed guests and guided the evening with warmth and energy.
Her Honour the Honourable Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre reflected on the importance of the event and its impact over the years:
The Levene Dinner has established itself as an outstanding opportunity for networking and professional development.”
She also shared a personal connection to the School, noting that she, her husband, and both of their children are alumni of the Hill Levene School of Business.
University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor Jeff Keshen spoke about the purpose of the evening and the qualities embodied by the keynote speaker:
“This dinner’s purpose is to celebrate excellence, leadership, and the power of connection — qualities that Mr. Clemons embodies and continues to embody.”
Dean Erin Oldford also spoke about the School’s deep connection to the province and community:
That spirit of community is central to who we are at the Hill Levene School of Business. We are proudly rooted in Saskatchewan. We are part of this community. And in a very real sense, We Are Your Business School.”
She added that the School’s graduates continue to play an important role in Saskatchewan’s future:
“Our graduating classes are leading sources of the talent that will grow Saskatchewan’s businesses for a generation, helping organizations become more resilient, agile, and globally competitive.”
Michael “Pinball” Clemons Leaves a Lasting Impression
Clemons’ keynote address during dinner was engaging, thoughtful, and filled with stories and lessons that connected with students and business leaders alike.
Clemons began his professional football journey in the NFL before joining the Toronto Argonauts in 1989, where he became one of the most celebrated players in CFL history. He remains the CFL’s all-time leader in combined yards and earned eight Grey Cup championships throughout his career as a player, coach, and executive. He has also been inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.
But beyond football, much of his message focused on service, education, and kindness. Together with his wife Diane, Clemons founded the Pinball Clemons Foundation to empower youth through education, helping support schools, scholarships, orphanages, and healthcare initiatives around the world.
He spoke passionately and directly to attendees, all of whom support the development of Hil Levene students and alumni, about the importance of education, mentorship, and philanthropy, sharing the impact of the Pinball Clemons Foundation, which supports students through scholarships, micro-credentials, and career opportunities.
“Humanity is life’s greatest treasure.”
Clemons also took a moment to recognize the impact educators and institutions have on shaping lives:
You are in the right place. This is where lives change forever.”
He reminded the audience that education does far more than prepare students for careers — it helps people build futures, communities, and purpose.
One of the most reflective moments of the evening came when Clemons quoted part of Bob Moorehead’s poem The Paradox of Our Time, encouraging attendees to slow down, value relationships, and lead with humanity in a fast-moving world.
“Education is LIFE.”
Looking Ahead
At the Hill Levene School of Business, we are proud to bring together students, alumni, industry, and community leaders to support the future of business education and leadership in Saskatchewan.
We thank our community, partners, alumni, faculty, staff, and students for their continued support and engagement. A sincere thank you to Dr. Kenneth Levene for his enduring support and contributions to the Hill Levene School of Business and the University of Regina community.
We look forward to building even more meaningful collaborations and connections together in the future.