Russ Kisby, honourary Doctor of Laws degree recipient, speaking from podium during Convocation ceremony held in Physical Education gymnasium.

Bio/Historical Note: Russ Kisby B.A.P.E., M.Ed., LLD (Hon) former president, ParticipACTION, was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan in 1940 and raised in Saskatoon. Kisby graduated from the University of Saskatchewan's College of Physical Education in 1963 and later earned a master's degree in community leadership and development in the United States. His professional career began at the Montreal and National YMCA before joining the newly launched ParticipACTION in 1972. Kisby became president in 1978, and remained in that position until retirement in 2001. With the re-launch of ParticipACTION in 2006, he continued to contribute to this unique Canadian movement as an advisor. Kisby was a leader in health promotion, physical fitness and social marketing. He received numerous awards, including the R. Tait McKenzie Honour Award (CAHPERD); Government of Canada 125 medal; University of Saskatchewan honourary Doctor of Laws degree; World Sport For All Award and Sport For All Pioneer Award. He was named as one of the 100 most influential graduates from the University of Saskatchewan and the Russ Kisby Physical Activity and Health Promotion Laboratory was recently opened at the U of S College of Kinesiology. Kisby died in Saskatoon in 2007.