Carleton University’s ninth annual Arthur Kroeger Awards Gala will be especially remembered in Carleton’s history, as this year’s ceremony marks the first since Arthur Kroeger’s death.
The gala took place on May 7 at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Hotel.
Carleton’s chancellor Herb Gray spoke to toast Arthur Kroeger and his life. “His example of life experience made him a beneficiary, more than any financial contribution,” said Gray. “It was his purpose to educate young people in public service based on example set by Arthur.”
Kroeger, who was Carleton’s seventh chancellor from 1993 to 2002, has been honoured since 1999 with the university’s creation of the Arthur Kroeger School of Public Affairs. The awards gala was introduced in 2001 as a tribute to Kroeger while also putting a spotlight on contributions to Canadian society in the realm of public affairs.
This year’s notable award recipients included the Honourable Louise Arbour, a former Canadian Supreme Court Justice, Linda Hughes, past publisher of the Edmonton Journal, and CTV chief political correspondent, Craig Oliver.
The awards ceremony also recognized Canada’s former Ambassador of Afghanistan, Christopher Alexander. As the keynote speaker of the night, he addressed Canada’s role in the reconstruction of Afghanistan as well as obligations of the international community for the prospective success of future undertakings.
“What has really changed and what is the common nature of the past Taliban years?” asked Alexander.
He went on to discuss the positive developments taking place within the country and further detailed the plan of action which Canada, along with the global community, were ready to engage. “Serious questions deserve serious answers,” said Alexander.
He detailed the already substantial improvements in the country such as the national development strategy, the numerous national programs, building institutions and a plan to defeat the Taliban.
“The success has been political and moral,” said Alexander. He explained that the international community has not reach its limits of support, but the peace process has begun through elections, which will be happening in Afghanistan this year.
Proceeds from the gala will go towards funding co-op placements and student internships through the Rwanda Initiative, according to the Arthur Kroeger College.