Cougars Athletics and Recreation (CAR) hosted its annual Casual and Flexible Staff Year End Celebration on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the SAMRU West Gate Social. The event brought together staff from across the department to recognize and celebrate the contributions of casual employees over the past year.
 
With more than 250 casual and flexible staff supporting daily operations, these individuals play a vital role in delivering exceptional programs, services, and experiences to the Mount Royal University community. From customer service and aquatics to game day operations and recreational programming, their dedication continues to drive the success of CAR.
 
The evening highlighted the collective achievements of each area, including welcoming over 350,000 visitors through recreation facilities, supporting more than 1,000 intramural participants, delivering 84 varsity games, and engaging thousands of program participants across aquatics, climbing, and fitness. These milestones reflect the commitment, professionalism, and passion of CAR staff in creating inclusive, high-quality experiences for students and the broader community.
 
The celebration also recognized graduating staff, acknowledging their contributions and the lasting impact they have made within Cougars Athletics and Recreation. Their leadership, mentorship, and commitment have helped shape a positive and welcoming environment for all.
 
Cougars Athletics and Recreation extends its sincere thanks to all casual and flexible staff for their hard work, energy, and dedication throughout the year. Their contributions continue to strengthen the MRU community and embody the department's commitment to creating inclusive and engaging recreation experiences.
 
Congratulations to this year's award recipients!
 
Employee of the Year Awards
Recipients of this award demonstrate a commitment to mastery of CAR's 10 core casual employee competencies: leadership, communication, customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, selflessness, empathy, equity, diversity and inclusion, and professionalism.

• Aquatics: Elara Moore
• Climbing and Adventure Programs: Nina Frankish-Beaven
• Facilities: Abby Mullen
• Customer Service: Shayna Erwin
• Fitness Centre: Franz Carballo
• Game Day: Zach Michaud
• Recreational Sports: Nolan Moat-Moskaluke
• Events and Engagement: Marielle Ocampo

Inclusion Award
The Inclusion Award recognizes individuals or workgroups who create and implement programs, practices, and initiatives that reduce barriers and foster a more inclusive environment.

• Nina Frankish-Beaven and Natalie Curtis (Get Aqtive Program)
• Marlynn Lawlor (CAR & Iniskim SPAR Program)

Leadership Award
The Leadership Award recognizes casual employees in leadership roles who demonstrate MRU's five core leadership practices and make a meaningful impact on the campus community.

• Madison Borbely (Aquatics)
• Mo Mohammed (Customer Service)