Every year, Red River College Polytechnic awards up to four Lieutenant Governor’s Medal awards to graduating students who excel in academic and technical achievement, involvement in College and/or community activities, and good character.

This year, RRC Polytech is proud to have selected a recipient who embodies every aspect of the award:

Michael Stewart, Applied Accounting

He cannot hear you.

He can barely see you.

But he’s ready, willing and more than able to help you with anything.

In fact, nothing makes Michael Stewart happier than smashing a negative stereotype associated with the deaf-blind community – it is his mission and one of the many reasons he has been awarded the only Lieutenant Governor’s Medal at RRC Polytech’s 2022 Fall Convocation.

“I just have a heart for supporting people and being involved in the community and so I want to help other people become successful and fulfill their dreams,” says Stewart.

Michael’s unwavering positivity inspires everyone around him. A lack of hearing since birth and diminished sight since age nine have never deterred him from chasing his dream of creating an inclusive society by empowering others who face similar challenges and educating those who don’t.

“My message for fellow graduates is to continue to push themselves into uncomfortable situations,” he says. “Overcome your fear and insecurities because that is where you ultimately grow the most. Make short-term and long-term goals with a detailed breakdown. When you accomplish a small goal, reward yourself so you can be proud of yourself. Also, be curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions!”

He credits his late father for his belief in himself, his work ethic, and for instilling his passion for volunteerism and his faith for the values that guide him.     

Michael lives those values each day, effortlessly balancing his community involvement and studies while working multiple part-time jobs to support himself, including as a Professional Direct Support Worker for deaf and autistic clients at New Directions.

His decision to further his education was sparked by his experience serving as a Chairperson for the Accessible Canada Act (Bill C-81) designed to make Canada barrier-free by January 1, 2040 and his ongoing committee work at the first national summer camp for deaf-blind adults at Camp Manitou, which he helped found in 2017.

His strength in math combined with a desire to help organizations or individuals that he believes in, led him to choosing a career in accounting.  

A classroom leader achieving excellent grades and attendance, Michael has graduated with Honours from the Applied Accounting Certificate program.

He appreciates his instructors for challenging him by encouraging group activities with some of his classmates who spoke English as a second language and had little to no experience with his interpreters and supports, teaching them all patience, respect, and how to adjust their communications.  

The pandemic forced a shift to virtual and hybrid delivery systems for the majority of students in his graduating class of over 1200. But already an expert in adaptability, Michael used remote learning to his advantage in May, attending classes while volunteering at the 2022 Deaflympics in Brazil, and shared the enriching experience with his classmates.

Jill Patterson, Manager of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services describes Stewart as a positive, dynamic and hardworking individual who is ready to take on the world of work and says his willingness to help teach others around him about his community sets him apart. 

“It’s been a privilege working with Michael for the past year,” says Patterson. “I only wish he would stay a Red River College Polytechnic student forever because he will be missed. Congratulations on this award, you deserve it.”

Michael says his award wouldn’t have been possible without all the amazing people who have helped him along the way and encourages everyone to volunteer and foster relationships to create healthy communities.

“From instructors and interpreters to classmates, I am blown away by the generosity, kindness, and top-notch service provided by RRC Polytech,” says Stewart. “My education will open so many doors for me as I work toward becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant and achieving my ultimate goal of changing the stigma associated with the ability of deaf-blind Canadians to work and contribute.”

Michael Stewart is a tireless advocate for accessibility, an outstanding role model and a worthy recipient of the College’s most distinguished award.

The only reason he would ever not lend you a hand, is because both his arms are already busy supporting someone else.