Islanders receive 2026 Heritage Awards

Several Islanders have been recognized for their contributions to preserving and promoting Prince Edward Island’s heritage.

PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, along with Lieutenant Governor Dr. Wassim Salamoun, presented the 2026 Heritage Awards to individuals and groups across a range of categories at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside recently. 

“Preserving our heritage takes time, care, and a strong connection to our province. These Islanders who are being recognized have demonstrated all of that. I’m grateful for their efforts and the impact they have on communities across Prince Edward Island.”

— Minister of Fisheries, Rural Development and Tourism Ernie Hudson

The winners included:

Heritage Recognition Awards

  • Rosemary Curley
  • Barbara MacDonald
  • Johanne Vigneault
  • Chris Ortenburger
  • Gary MacDougall
  • Carolyn McKillop
  • Andrews Tribune Newsletter
  • Benevolent Irish Society of Prince Edward Island 

Mary Cornfoot Brehaut Genealogy Award

  • Jean MacKay

    Natural Heritage Activity Award

  • Jake Harding

    Volunteer of the Year

  • Percy Affleck

    Irene Rogers Architectural Award

  • Mark Rodd

    Wendell Boyle Performance Award

  • Richard Wood

    Academic Publication of the Year

  • Frank Gillan

    Creative Publication of the Year

  • Kate MacQuarrie

    Catherine Hennessey Heritage Activism Award – Young Adult Category

  • Town of Stratford

    Catherine Hennessey Heritage Activism Award – Adult Category

  • Town of Stratford

    Boyde Beck Memorial Award

  • Connecting Conversations Indigenous Language & Drumming Program

    Boyde Beck Memorial Bursary 

  • Miyuki Fujimaru

    Award of Honour

  • Clarence Ryan

“Our Island’s heritage is carried forward by people who care deeply about it,” said PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation executive director Matthew McRae. “It’s always uplifting to see such strong commitment from individuals and organizations across this province; the Heritage Awards give us a chance to acknowledge their fantastic work.”

For more information visit PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation Heritage Awards.

 

Media Contact:
Mitchell Crouse 
PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation
mcrouse@gov.pe.ca

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