Celebrating Achievement
Recognizing Excellence
Each year, Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School recognizes alumni whose lives and work reflect a commitment to leadership, service, and contribution.
These awards honour individuals making an impact in their professions and communities. While each award has a distinct focus, they share a common purpose: to recognize alumni who continue to demonstrate a high standard of character and achievement beyond their time at STS.
Recipients are selected by a committee of alumni, former faculty, and parents, and are recognized at the annual Alumni Celebration. Their stories are shared across the STS community through Optimum magazine, school publications, and on-campus recognition, highlighting the strength and reach of the Spartan network.
Current Award Winners
From emerging leaders to established professionals, this year’s recipients reflect the breadth of the STS alumni community. Discover the 2026 award winners.
Jeffrey Kahane ’89
Distinguished Alumni
Jeff exemplifies the qualities of a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient through his exceptional legal career and dedication to community service. As the founder of Kahane Law Office, he has built a thriving firm, earning King’s Counsel in 2022 and numerous accolades. A sought-after speaker, he shares his expertise with organizations like the Calgary Real Estate Board and the University of Calgary Law School. For over 35 years, Jeff has been a devoted STS alumnus, donor, and volunteer, serving in key roles that strengthen the alumni network. His leadership and commitment make him a truly deserving honoree.
Mark Heard ’78
Nil Nisi Optimum
Mark Heard ’78
Orthopedic Surgeon
“As a youth, I didn’t appreciate how my school journey would shape my adult life. Living above the three-room Strathcona School for Boys on Riverdale Avenue (where my father, Sandy Heard, was the Headmaster), home and school were deeply intertwined.
In 1971, I witnessed the STS vision come to life with the donation of land by J.B. Cross. From day one, it has been a welcoming community emphasizing curiosity, hard work, and the mantra of striving to do one’s best. Many teachers became lifelong mentors, shaping my understanding of teamwork, defeat, and success. My life is rich because of the experiences I had growing up at STS, and I continue to live out values like humility, excellence, integrity, and respect that were demonstrated to me.”
Anna Weyant ’13
Nil Nisi Optimum
Anna Weyant ’13
Artist
I am truly grateful for the incredible people Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School brought into my life. The friendships I formed in class, on campus, and on the bus, remain some of the most meaningful in my life. It was an important place for me. I carry some of the lessons I learned there with me every day.
Andrea Wettstein ’02
Nil Nisi Optimum
Andrea Wettstein ’02
Award-winning composer, sound and voice director, and co-owner of 6 Degrees Music and Sound
“I debuted my first original song at the STS Talent Show. This motivated me to take chances outside my comfort zone, find people who are equally passionate about music, and continue writing and performing. STS provides students with opportunities to put themselves out there. My advice is to try everything – you never know where it will lead.”
Jill Cross ’85
Nil Nisin Optimum
Jill Cross ’85
Chief Operating Officer, Global Philanthropic Canada Inc.
With 20+ years as an entrepreneur, consultant, and organizational strategist, Jill is a Calgary-based strategic leader and arts advocate known for turning strategy into execution and building systems that support consultants nationwide.
Joe Kendal ’08
Nil Nisin Optimum
Fareen Zaver ’02
Nil Nisin Optimum
Fareen Zaver ’02
Emergency Medicine Physician and Associate Dean of Faculty Development, UCalgary
An emergency physician and Associate Dean at UCalgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, Fareen leads faculty development, mentorship, and leadership initiatives. Practicing at Peter Lougheed Centre, she is a nationally recognized advocate for inclusive academic communities and diverse faculty contributions.
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