The College was honoured to present Ernst Grach with the award in recognition of his support of the College. Ernst was presented with the award during the Virtual Convocation ceremony hosted in June of 2021.

Over the last 25 years, Ernie has contributed to Northern Lakes College in numerous capacities. Most recently, he served as a Governor on the College Board of Governors from 2018 to 2020, bringing a strong community focus to the table. Ernie also served on the Wabasca Community Education Committee in prior years.

In his capacity with CAREERS: The Next Generation, Ernie travelled a large portion of the NLC service region presenting to high school students, delivering a consistent message that Northern Lakes College is a great option for students to continue their education.

A strong advocate of dual credit programming, Ernie promoted the College’s dual credit programs and, through his role with CAREERS, found summer internships for students in programs such as Power Engineering, Health Care Aide, and Water & Wastewater Operator. Ernie worked many years connecting high school students with RAP work placements. Many apprentices in the region owe their start in the trade to Ernie.   

 Ernie was instrumental in the delivery of the Indigenous Careers Explorers Academy summer program, leveraging his many industry connections to find work placements for students. Ernie stayed with the students at the Slave Lake Campus dorms to ensure the camp ran smoothly. 

Every year, Ernie raises funds for the Canadian Cancer Society as a participant in the grueling Ride to Conquer Cancer.