The Honourable Russ Mirasty S.O.M., M.S.M., awarded Honorary Degree at Spring Convocation

The University of Regina awarded the Honourable Russ Mirasty with an honorary Doctor of Laws honoris causa (LLD) during Spring 2025 Convocation. Although best known as the first Indigenous Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, Mr. Mirasty also made a lasting impact in policing and community service. He is a fluent Cree speaker, member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, and has contributed a lifetime to public service, leadership, and community dedication.

“As a proud member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, my commitment to reconciliation and bridging gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities has remained strong throughout my career, said Mirasty. “It has been my pleasure to serve the province of Saskatchewan as an RCMP officer and as Lieutenant Governor, and it is an honour to receive this degree from the University of Regina.” 

Mr. Mirasty is an incredible role model who leads with integrity, humility, and inclusivity. — U of R President and Vice-Chancellor Jeff Keshen

Born and raised in La Ronge, Mr. Mirasty grew up immersed in Cree culture and northern life. His deep connection to community, coupled with the values instilled by his family, laid the foundation for a lifetime of service. After graduating from high school in La Ronge, he attended the University of Saskatchewan for one year before pursuing a career with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

In 1976, Mr. Mirasty joined the RCMP, one of only two Indigenous cadets at the time. Over the course of a distinguished 36-year career, he rose through the ranks to become assistant commissioner. He served in seven provinces, gaining broad experience in policing, community relations, and management. He was the first Indigenous commanding officer, overseeing hundreds of officers and support staff. His leadership was marked by a commitment to respectful policing, cross-cultural understanding, and the mentorship of young officers, particularly Indigenous recruits.

Mr. Mirasty retired from the RCMP in 2013, but his public service continued. He co-led a province-wide Student First Engagement process on behalf of the Ministry of Education that would eventually inform a new provincial K-12 education strategy.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Mr. Mirasty’s appointment as Lieutenant Governor in July 2019. As Lieutenant Governor, he served as the Queen’s, then King’s representative in Saskatchewan, fulfilling constitutional and ceremonial duties with dignity and compassion. His term was widely praised for its accessibility, humility, and genuine connection with people across Saskatchewan. He focused on themes of reconciliation, youth empowerment, and literacy, often emphasizing the importance of education and cultural pride.

Mr. Mirasty’s presence at public events and his ability to speak Cree during formal occasions added a powerful layer of inclusivity and representation. His tenure helped bridge gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. 

If you missed the livestream of the Spring 2025 Convocation, a recording of the event is available. Visit the University’s Facebook page for more information.

When he concluded his term in 2025, Mr. Mirasty left behind a legacy of integrity, service, and leadership. He and his wife, Donna, are both dedicated to community work. Their ongoing efforts inspire a new generation of leaders who value cultural identity, service, and reconciliation.

“Mr. Mirasty is an incredible role model who leads with integrity, humility, and inclusivity,” said U of R President and Vice-Chancellor Jeff Keshen. “For his dedicated service to others, the University is pleased to present him with this honorary degree.”