Friday, October 28, 2011, Calgary, Alberta – Nearly 350 people gathered Thursday evening on SAIT Polytechnic’s campus to honour the recipients of SAIT’s 2011 President’s Volunteerism Award and Partnership Award.

President Irene Lewis presented Mel Svendsen with the volunteerism award and Shell Canada with the partnership award during the formal gala.

“As a polytechnic, SAIT has the opportunity to work with many outstanding individuals and companies representing a variety of sectors,” said Lewis. “It is a privilege to recognize those who go above and beyond to help make SAIT a great place to work and to learn through volunteer efforts and partnerships.”

When describing the contributions this year’s award recipients have made to SAIT, Lewis had many wonderful accolades to share.

About Mel Svendsen:

“Over the years, Mel has given countless hours to SAIT. Also nicknamed ‘Mr. Manufacturing,’ he has helped to shape curriculum as a member of a program advisory committee, and has inspired students, faculty and alumni as a popular speaker. Mel has also created two scholarships to support student success, and has hired many SAIT graduates.”

About Shell Canada:

“At SAIT, we are most familiar with Shell as an outstanding supporter of education. Shell’s Campus Ambassador Program assigns teams of Shell employees to 13 post-secondary institutions, including SAIT. SAIT’s team is made up of a range of Shell employees – all volunteers – often found on campus or taking students on field trips to their worksites.  The team’s insight and support are priceless to our students.”

2011 President’s Volunteerism Award — Mel Svendsen

Mel Svendsen is the president and co-owner of Calgary-based Standen’s Limited, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of vehicle suspension parts and springs with operations in North America and China.

He graduated from SAIT in 1968 with a certificate in Automotive Service Technology and has done much to raise the profile of the value of a SAIT education. He volunteers his time as an inspiring speaker at SAIT events and has served as an advisor helping to guide the Institution in its program development.

Mel established two Standen’s Limited scholarships and has continued to hire our students and graduates. He also provides ongoing SAIT training for his employees. Mel was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 1996 and was awarded an Honorary Degree of Applied Technology in 1999.

2011 President’s Partnership Award — Shell Canada

Shell Canada, celebrating its 100th anniversary, is one of the country’s largest integrated oil and gas companies employing more than 8,000 people. Shell is a company of firsts. It was first to remove lead from gasoline, introduce engine oil lubricants and publish a sustainable development report.

Shell recognizes the importance of a skilled and innovative workforce to help build a better energy future. For many years, Shell has provided financial support and gifts-in-kind, and its employees have volunteered with SAIT. Through its Campus Ambassador Program, Shell invests in student learning and its employees work with faculty and students at SAIT and other post-secondary institutions.

Shell has remained committed to innovation and leadership and has strived to leave a positive legacy for all Canadians for generations to come.

SAIT Polytechnic is one of Canada’s most exciting destinations for post-secondary education, offering more than 100 career programs that position people for success in technology, trades and business. A leader in innovation, SAIT also collaborates with industry on applied research and delivers corporate training worldwide. SAIT is a member of Polytechnics Canada and one of Alberta’s Top 50 Employers for 2011.

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