Kristi Hines Named 2026 Distinguished Alumni Honouree; to Be Celebrated at Keyano's Annual Fundraising Gala, Encore

Keyano College is pleased to announce that Kristi Hines has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing the accomplishments of a Keyano graduate who brings a legacy of excellence to the college.  

The award will be presented at Encore 2026, the College's premier fundraising event and the evolution of the beloved Keyano Gala, which supported students and celebrated community excellence for more than 40 years. 

In addition to receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award, Kristi will serve as the evening's featured speaker, sharing insights from their personal and professional journey, reflections on Keyano College's role in their success, and perspectives on leadership, community, and lifelong learning. 

A graduate of Keyano College’s collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the University of Alberta and a former Huskies volleyball player, Kristi has grown from a local nursing student into an accomplished entrepreneur and the founder of Hines Health Services (HHS), a Fort McMurray-based company serving clients across Canada. Throughout that growth, she has remained connected to the community that helped shape her career. Her success demonstrates how a career built in Fort McMurray can grow well beyond the region while continuing to create opportunities at home.

Looking back, I am grateful that I could remain in my community, continue participating in sports, and begin discovering the direction I wanted my life to take. Local students need access to strong local education, Keyano provides that foundation and helps people see that meaningful careers, leadership, and innovation can begin right here at home.

— Distinguished Alumni Kristi Hines

The announcement follows Keyano College's Alumni Awards Luncheon on September 24 where the College honoured additional alumni whose achievements continue to positively influence their fields, communities, and industries. 

This year's recipients included: 

• Distinguished Alumni Award – Kristi Hines, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2001) 
• Rising Star Award – Shavell Skeel, Business Administration Management Diploma (2024) 
• Volunteer Service Award – Candice Crossley, Business Administration Human Resources Management Certificate (2017) 
• Future Alumni Award – Sunil Choudhary, Business Administration Management Diploma (2026) 
• Honorary Alumnus Award – Pratibha Shalini 

While these alumni were recognized at an intimate celebration with family, friends, and College representatives, the Distinguished Alumni Award will be formally presented at Encore 2026 on November 7, 2026. Tickets are available at Keyano.ca/Encore.  

About Encore

For decades, Keyano’s signature fundraising events have brought our community together to support students, strengthen programs and facilities, and create lasting impact across our region. Now, that tradition enters a new chapter with Encore, a refreshed Gala experience that honours its legacy while celebrating student success, alumni achievement and community impact. Guests are invited to join us on November 7, 2026, at SMS Equipment Place for an elegant evening featuring live entertainment and a curated four-course dining experience. 

Past Recipients of the Distinguished Alumni Award  

• 2025 - Chelsi King, Office Administration Certificate (2012), Bachelor of Elementary Education (2019) 
• 2024 - Sheldon Germain, University Studies Transfer Program (1992) 
• 2023 - Mitch Mercredi, Industrial Instrumentation Technology (2002) 
• 2022 - Chris Wilson, Heavy Equipment Technician (2000) 
• 2019 - Nicole Bourque-Bouchier, Computer Systems (1997), Aboriginal Entrepreneurship (2004) 
• 2018 - Kendal Netmaker, University Studies (2007) 
• 2013 - Julio Florez, Computer Information Systems Diploma (2002) 
• 2012 - Kuni Albert, Natural Resources and Environment Technology Diploma (2000) 
• 2011 – Fred McDonald, Steamfitter/Pipefitter (1980) 
• 2010 – Melissa Blake, Business Administration Program (1992) 
• 2009 – Dr. Cora Voyageur, Upgrading (1976) 
• 2008 – Doug Golosky, Welding (1965)  
• 2007 – Mike Deranger, Mechanical and Construction Trades Preparation (MCTP) Program (1993), Welding (1997)  
• 2006 – Dale Unruh, Electrical (1996)  
• 2005 – Shawn Chaulk, Computer Business Systems Program (1988)  
• 2004 – Rick Mayuk, Business Administration Program (2000) 
• 2003 – Phillip Cleghorn, University Studies Program (1983)  
• 2002 – Dr. Keith Yap, University Studies Program (1983)  
• 2001 – Margaret Whiteknife, Office Administration Program (1992) 
• 2000 – Laura Whelan, Music Diploma (1993)  
• 1999 – Doris Plourde, Adult Basic Education (1994) 
• 1999 – Loren Jacula, University Transfer – Commerce (1993) 
• 1999 – Bonnie Gerow, Business Administration Program (1984)  
• 1998 – Kim Ewashko, Visual Art (1989) 
• 1998 – Bob Heinz, “A” Pressure Welding Certificate (1978) 
• 1998 – Karin King, Early Childhood Certificate  
• 1998 – Wanda Noren, Computer Information Systems Co-operative Education Diploma (1994) 
• 1997 – Dr. Peter Brown, University Studies - Physics (1989) 
• 1997 – Dr. Steve Jones, Pre-Medicine Science (1989) 
• 1997 – Cecile Nanemahoo, Heavy Equipment Operator (1987)