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Jaxson Werminski received his award earlier this week. (Image Credit: Facebook/Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan)
achievement

Lt. Gov. delivers Awards of Excellence in Northern Sask.

Sep 25, 2026 | 4:24 PM

Awards of Excellence were presented to students in the North this week by Saskatchewan Lt.-Gov. Bernadette McIntyre

The award is given to one student from Northern Saskatchewan in each grade level from Grades 7 to 12. It recognizes academic standing, school attendance, and involvement in cultural activities. 

The Northern Student Achievement Awards were established in 1989 by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. 

This year’s recipients are Grade 7 student Jaxson Werminski of Buffalo Narrows, Grade 8 student Lois Corrigal of Jans Bay, Grade 9 student Liam Sanderson of La Ronge, Grade 10 student Elyna Gareau of Creighton, Grade 11 student Audrey Gardiner of Ile-a-la Crosse, and Grade 12 student Ryhia Cougan Park.  

Werminsky is described as an exceptional student with excellent attendance, who is always prepared to participate and consistently completes his work to a high standard.  

“Jaxson is also an enthusiastic and determined participant in school activities; whether it’s trying something new like a dance workshop or supporting his teammates on the basketball court. Jaxson is also deeply connected to his northern roots, with an appreciation for his culture, community, and the land.” 

Corrigal is punctual and also has excellence attendance with her teachers speaking highly of her work ethic and positive attitude.  

“They describe her as a student who gives her full effort to every task. Lois leads by example. She demonstrates respect for her classmates and teachers and can regularly be seen offering help and encouragement to others. These qualities have made her a natural leader in her classroom.” 

Sanderson is said to approach learning with determination, while consistently striving to do his best. 

“Outside the classroom, Liam is an active and valued member of his school. Whether on the football field or the basketball court, he leads by example through effort, sportsmanship, and teamwork. Liam takes great pride in his Indigenous heritage, participating in cultural practices, ceremonies, and community events.” 

Gareau always achieves honour roll standings and has earned multiple Northern Saskatchewan Student Achievement Awards.  

“Elyna continues to rank among the top students in her classes, including achieving a remarkable 97 per cent average in psychology. Her success reflects her academic ability, discipline, and love of learning. Beyond the classroom, Elyna demonstrates compassion, leadership, and a willingness to serve others – as when she helped organize and distribute donations in the aftermath of the Denare Beach wildfire.” 

Gardiner also has an impressive academic record with an average above 90 per cent.  

“Audrey’s extracurricular activities include competing in volleyball, cross country, and track and field. She also mentors younger students and plays an active role in planning and supporting school events. Audrey recently represented her community at a Renewable Energy Youth Conference in the Yukon.” 

Cougan-Park is described as a quick learner, and a well-rounded student, with strengths in writing, drawing, and mathematics.  

“Ryhia demonstrated strong understanding of content in her senior science courses; asking meaningful questions, reflecting deeply on complex ideas, and connecting her learning to broader, real-world concepts. Ryhia values time spent in nature as a source of balance and well-being. She proudly embraces her Dene language and traditions including fishing, berry picking, snaring, beading and sewing.” 

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com