Dr. Alice Carr: Winner of the 2025 Emerging Researcher of the Year Award
Awards Criteria 2026
The Hummingbird Awards Gala 2026 is an opportunity to honour those who have made a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by diabetes.
Whether through groundbreaking research, selfless advocacy, or compassionate care, these nominees represent the heart & soul of our community.
Dr. Raymond Rajotte Lifetime Achievement Award
Honouring Dr. Raymond Rajotte
Dr. Raymond Rajotte has dedicated his life to advancing diabetes research, putting Alberta at the forefront of groundbreaking biomedical discoveries. He is internationally acclaimed for making history as the pioneer of the first successful pancreatic islet cell transplant, a breakthrough procedure that enabled people with type 1 diabetes to produce insulin again without daily injections.
Dr. Rajotte’s extraordinary legacy – from spearheading the Edmonton Protocol to mentoring future scientists – exemplifies the spirit of lifelong commitment that this award celebrates. His achievements continue to inspire the diabetes community in Alberta and around the world.
About the Award…
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual who has devoted many years (often a lifetime) to improving the lives of people affected by diabetes.
This is the highest honour at the Hummingbird Awards Gala, celebrating sustained excellence, leadership, and impact in diabetes research, care, education or advocacy over decades. Nominees in this category are role models who have made landmark contributions to the diabetes community.
Dr. James Shapiro receives the 2026 Dr. Raymond Rajotte Lifetime Achievement Award.
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Nominees should have 25+ years of active involvement in the diabetes field (e.g. research, clinical care, program development, advocacy, or leadership). They may be at a late stage of their career or retired, with a legacy of contributions.
Achievements should demonstrate a significant lasting impact – e.g. pioneering research, founding important programs or organizations, influencing policy or standards of care, or mentoring the next generation in diabetes work.
The individual’s work should have broadly benefited the Alberta diabetes community (and often beyond). While their influence can be global, we especially honour contributions that have touched lives in Alberta.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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Can be made by anyone familiar with the nominee’s career. A letter of support is required and should clearly outline the nominee’s long-term impact, leadership, and legacy. Multiple endorsements are welcome.
The Awards Committee will evaluate all complete nomination packages and will look for demonstrated excellence over time within the nomination submitted. Assessment will be based solely on the materials provided, including the nomination form and required letter of support.
This award isn’t just about one achievement, but a career of achievements that have advanced the cause of diabetes prevention, treatment, or awareness in an exceptional way.
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Lifetime Achievement Award 2024
Dr. Raymond Rajotte
Learn more about Dr. Rajotte work HERE
Lifetime Achievement Award 2025
Dr. James Shapiro
In 1993, a young surgeon and scientist came to Edmonton to do a transplantation fellowship and graduate work under the supervision of Dr. Kneteman and Dr. Rajotte.
In 2000, with Dr. Shapiro as clinical director, the islet transplant team achieved what once was thought impossible…enabling people with type 1 diabetes to live insulin-free after islet transplantation.
This breakthrough became known as the Edmonton Protocol, and virtually overnight, our city became a beacon of hope in the global search for a diabetes cure, while being funded by / part of Alberta Diabetes Foundation.
Dr. Shapiro’s work transformed the way brittle diabetes is treated. The protocol the islet transplant team developed has now been used around the world, helping more than 2,500 patients — including many right here in Alberta — gain better health, freedom from injections, and an improved quality of life.
But James didn’t stop there. Over the past 25 years, he has continued to push the boundaries. As head of Edmonton’s Clinical Islet Transplant Program (the largest of its kind worldwide) he has refined and advanced the procedure, making it safer and more effective.
Today, Dr. Shapiro is leading pioneering efforts to take islet transplantation to the next level. His work with Stem cell–derived insulin-producing cells could open the door for thousands more to benefit…without the limitations of donor shortages or life-long anti-rejection drugs.
Researcher of the Year Award
This award celebrates a leading researcher who has made outstanding contributions to diabetes research in recent years. It honours an individual whose scientific work has significantly advanced understanding, treatment, or prevention of diabetes.
Whether their focus is cure-oriented, prevention, technology, or improving care, the Researcher of the Year is someone whose work stands out for its impact and excellence.
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Open to established researchers in the field of diabetes. Nominees typically have more than five years of research experience and have developed a strong track record of results.
Nominees must be currently conducting research in Alberta (e.g. at a university, hospital, or research institute in Alberta). Their work can have national or global reach, but they should be a part of Alberta’s research community.
Research Excellence: The nominee should have made significant research contributions – for example, groundbreaking findings, high-impact publications, development of a novel treatment approach, or leadership of important clinical trials or studies. Quality and innovation of research are key.
Impact on Diabetes Outcomes: Consider how the researcher’s work has moved the dial on diabetes care or knowledge. Is their research bringing us closer to a cure, better management, or improved quality of life for those with diabetes? The most deserving nominees will have work that shows clear potential to improve lives.
Leadership and Collaboration: Additional consideration is given if the researcher has demonstrated leadership and collaboration in the scientific or diabetes community. Mentoring students, collaborating across disciplines, or contributing to building research capacity in Alberta can strengthen a nomination.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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Typically submitted by peers or institutions familiar with the nominee’s work (such as colleagues, department heads, or collaborators).
At least one letter of support from a fellow researcher or expert in the field is required and should detail the nominee’s contributions and their significance.
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Researcher of the Year Award 2024
Dr. Jean Buteau
Over the past years, Dr. Jean Buteau's lab identified and characterized the gene Lyn, which regulates beta-cell mass, and collaborated with industry partners to develop tolimidone, a drug that activates Lyn and shows promise as a new class of medication for type 1 diabetes.
His persistence led to Health Canada’s approval of a local clinical trial at the Alberta Diabetes Institute, keeping the scientific and economic benefits in Edmonton.
Alongside these translational achievements, Dr. Buteau secured over $200,000 in research funding, mentored award-winning students, and advanced his academic contributions through teaching and international collaboration.
His work exemplifies the power of combining discovery research, institutional support, and donor funding to drive innovative treatments and inspire hope for a future free of diabetes.
Researcher of the Year Award 2025
Dr. Nidheesh Dadheech
Dr. Dadheech ia at the forefront of one of the most promising areas in diabetes science — stem cell–based therapies.
He currently serves as the Senior Cell Therapy and Process Development Lead at the University of Alberta’s Human iPSC-Islet Program.
Over the past eight years, he’s played a key role in building a program focused on developing personalized treatments for diabetes. His work centres on creating insulin-producing cells from a person’s own blood…a breakthrough that could eliminate the need for donor transplants or lifelong medications.
In addition to leading this research, he plays a vital role in shaping strategy, securing funding, and building global partnerships. He is involved in everything from hands-on lab work to world-class innovation.
But what truly sets him apart is his leadership. He’s known as a generous mentor, a thoughtful teacher, and a collaborative force in the lab…someone who lifts everyone around him.
We are proud to recognize his outstanding contributions to the future of diabetes care.
Emerging Researcher of the Year Award
This award highlights a rising star in diabetes research – an early-career investigator who is already making remarkable contributions. It is meant to encourage and recognize researchers who are in the initial stages of their independent career but are showing exceptional promise through innovation, passion, and impactful results.
Today’s emerging researcher could be tomorrow’s leading scientist!
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Open to researchers in the first 5 years of their research career (post-training). This generally means nominees who have recently begun working as an independent researcher or principal investigator within approximately the last five years. They might be postdoctoral fellows, new faculty, or other early-career scientists.
Nominees must be currently based in Alberta conducting diabetes-related research. We want to celebrate young professionals contributing to Alberta’s vibrant research community.
Research Accomplishments: The nominee should have notable early achievements, such as important findings, published papers, or development of a novel research project. We understand they are early in their careers, so the focus is on quality and potential of their work rather than quantity. What have they discovered or created that is exciting or innovative?
Innovation and Potential: We especially look for creativity and potential for future impact. Is the nominee exploring a bold new idea? Have they introduced a new technique or perspective in diabetes research? The awardee is someone likely to become a future leader in the field.
Career Commitment: Nominees should demonstrate commitment to a career in diabetes research. Passion, dedication, and a clear intention to continue pursuing important questions in diabetes are important qualitative factors.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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To ensure recognition by the research community, nominations for this category must be made by a senior researcher or mentor who is familiar with the nominee’s work and is based in Alberta (e.g. a supervisor, department lead, or established scientist in the field).
The nominator must provide a letter outlining the nominee’s qualifications, accomplishments to date, and why they stand out as an emerging talent. Additional support letters are welcome.
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Emerging Researcher of the Year Award 2024
Jasmine Maghera
Jasmine Maghera is a PhD student in the Department of Pharmacology at the Alberta Diabetes Institute.
Her outstanding research spans diverse areas, including islet stem cells, insulin pump looping, and developing beta cells from stem cells.
Jasmine’s contributions extend beyond research: she mentors undergraduate students, organizes laboratory tours for the diabetes community, and advocates tirelessly for individuals living with diabetes.
Her efforts have been recognized with Canada’s most prestigious award, the Vanier Scholarship, highlighting her dedication and excellence in her field.
Emerging Researcher of the Year Award 2025
Dr. Alice Carr
Dr. Carr earned her PhD at the University of Exeter Medical School and is now a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Alberta Diabetes Institute, right here at the University of Alberta.
Her research focuses on type 1 diabetes and how we can better understand, track, and treat it. She brings together data from different fields and teams, using it in innovative ways to answer some of the toughest questions in diabetes care.
One focus of her work is helping clinical trials run smarter and faster so that new treatments can reach people living with diabetes sooner. She’s also worked closely with Alberta’s islet transplant team, looking not just at clinical outcomes but also how treatments affect a patient’s freedom, flexibility, and quality of life.
In short, she is a connector…of data, of teams, and of ideas. And she’s doing it all with one goal in mind: to improve life for people with type 1 diabetes.
Outstanding Philanthropist Award
This award honours exceptional generosity and community spirit in the fight against diabetes. It is given to an individual, family, group, or organization that has made a significant philanthropic contribution – through donations, fundraising, or other financial support – towards diabetes research, care, or education.
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Donors and Fundraisers: Nominees can be individual philanthropists, families, companies, fundraising event teams, or any group that has provided outstanding financial support to the diabetes cause. This could include major monetary donations, long-term fundraising commitments, or innovative campaigns that raised substantial funds or awareness.
Impact of Giving: The nomination should highlight how the nominee’s generosity has made a meaningful difference in advancing the mission to prevent, treat, or cure diabetes. We are looking for contributions that have directly benefited the diabetes community—whether by funding research, supporting educational initiatives, increasing access to care, or strengthening community engagement (e.g., organizing local fundraisers, helping connect people to resources, or raising awareness through community events).
Commitment: Preference may be given to those who have demonstrated sustained commitment over time (e.g. annual contributions, multi-year fundraising efforts) or who have gone above and beyond in their efforts (for instance, a family organizing large charity events yearly, or a company rallying its employees to raise funds on an ongoing basis). However, a one-time extraordinary contribution can also be recognized.
Inspiration to Others: A hallmark of this award is that the recipient often sets an example for others. Have they helped to build a culture of giving in their community or network? Did their effort mobilize others to donate or get involved? The most outstanding philanthropists not only give themselves, but also encourage and spark generosity in others.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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Can be submitted by anyone aware of the nominee’s philanthropic work (including self-nomination, in the case of an organization highlighting its charitable initiatives).
Supporting documents or testimonials from beneficiaries, community members, or partner organizations can be very helpful to demonstrate the scope of the nominee’s contributions (e.g. letters from a research lab expressing gratitude for funding, news articles about a fundraising event’s success, etc.).
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Outstanding Philanthropist Award 2024
Rock’n August
Rock’n August is a much-loved week-long event in St. Albert, Alberta, that brings together classic car enthusiasts, music lovers, and community members. Since its inception in 1996, Rock’n August has raised over $1.8 million for diabetes research, with all funds supporting local research projects that make a difference in our community.
Outstanding Philanthropist Award 2025
Jules Germain & Sharon Stefanyk
Their story began from a personal place of love and determination. When their daughter (who is now a grown woman and a new mother herself ) was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes…they were called to take action.
That calling became the annual golf tournament they’ve now led for an incredible 20 years, in support of the Alberta Diabetes Foundation. Year after year, they have poured their hearts into every detail: the venue, the food, the prizes, the silent auction, the outreach.
And thanks to their dedication, the tournament has grown steadily, raising a record $41,500 in 2025 alone.
But their impact goes beyond fundraising. Through this event, they’ve brought new people into the diabetes community, raised awareness, and inspired others to get involved.
They are not only successful fundraisers, but also exceptional collaborators and community builders. They’ve engaged local sponsors, built strong volunteer teams, and turned the tournament into a cherished tradition.
Perhaps most importantly, they do all of this with a professionalism, warmth, and generosity of spirit that represents the very best of what ADF stands for.
They are reliable ambassadors, vocal leaders, and shining examples of how one idea…born out of love for a child…can grow into something extraordinary.
Jules Germain & Sharon Stefanyk: Winners of the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropist Award
Diabetes Impact Award
The Diabetes Impact Award is given to an individual or group whose work has made a significant impact on the diabetes community. This is a broad category intended to recognize those making a difference in ways that may not fit neatly into “research” or “philanthropy” alone – for example, outstanding advocates, educators, healthcare providers, program leaders, or innovative community initiatives.
The emphasis is on the impact – how the nominee’s actions have tangibly improved life for people with diabetes or advanced the cause.
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Change-makers in the Community: Nominees can come from any walk of life.
Examples include: diabetes educators or healthcare professionals who have gone above and beyond in patient care; advocates who lead awareness campaigns or fight for policy changes; program coordinators who run support groups or camps for people with diabetes; an organization implementing an innovative diabetes prevention program; or a grassroots community project improving the lives of those with diabetes.
If it positively impacts people with diabetes, it fits this award.
Measured by Impact: The key criterion is outcome and reach. Nominators should describe specifically what difference the nominee has made.
Did they improve access to care for a certain population? Have they educated a large number of people? Did they create a resource that many families rely on?
We want to see evidence of meaningful benefits – whether quantitative (e.g. number of people reached, funds raised for a cause, improvement in health metrics) and/or qualitative (testimonials of changed lives, a lasting change in community attitudes, etc.).
Innovation and Creativity: While not required, we highly value innovative approaches. A nominee who found a new, better way to address a diabetes-related challenge (such as a novel education tool, a unique community event, a new support mechanism via social media, etc.) would be a strong contender. Creativity in solving problems or meeting needs in the diabetes community is a plus.
Breadth vs. Depth: Impact may be broad in scope or deep in effect. For example, a nominee might have led a province-wide initiative that provided moderate benefits to a large number of people, or they may have made a profound difference in the lives of a smaller group—such as through a youth mentorship program with life-changing outcomes.
Both types of impact are equally valued, and the committee will assess each nomination within its appropriate context and scale.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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Open to anyone! Community members, colleagues, or beneficiaries can nominate.
Please include examples or evidence of the impact – e.g. “Under Jane’s leadership, the support group grew from 5 to 50 members in two years, and members report improved A1C levels and confidence in managing diabetes,” or “This charity run organized by XYZ Team raised $100,000 for diabetes research and engaged over 1,000 participants.”
Any supporting letters from those touched by the nominee’s work can strongly illustrate the nominee’s influence.
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Diabetes Impact Award 2024
Jasmine Maghera
Jasmine Maghera's impact goes far beyond her research. As someone living with Type 1 diabetes, she has been a force of change in the community. She has been a leader in the diabetes community, through her work with 'I Challenge Diabetes' and 'Kids'n'us'.
Through these organizations she works in community education, with a notable focus on helping children to learn about managing and living with diabetes. Jasmine's commitment to the T1D community is inspiring
Diabetes Impact Award 2025
Dr. Robin Lucciantonio
Dr. Robin Lucciantonio is a registered dietitian and diabetes educator who meets people where they are: with deep compassion, practical support, and trusted clinical knowledge.
Her patients describe her as someone who listens without judgment, celebrates their wins, and helps them overcome even the toughest challenges.
But her work goes far beyond one-on-one care. While working full time, she is also earning her master’s degree and contributing to diabetes research, always staying at the forefront of new tools and approaches. She bridges the gap between research and everyday life, bringing new ideas directly into patient care.
Through countless initiatives and everyday acts of care, she has improved access to care and outcomes for so many individuals. She creates a safe, respectful environment where people feel seen and supported.
Her commitment to evidence-based practice, combined with her personal connection to those she serves, means that her work has both deep and meaningful impact. People are not only healthier because of her…they’re also more confident and empowered to live full lives with diabetes.
Heroes in Diabetes Award
ThiS award is a heartfelt tribute to the courage and perseverance of those living with diabetes. It recognizes an individual (or family) who embodies strength, resilience, and a positive spirit in the face of the challenges posed by diabetes.
The Heroes in Diabetes Award celebrates personal journeys – whether it’s someone managing type 1 or type 2 diabetes who has overcome obstacles or a family that works together to support a loved one with diabetes.
These are the inspirational stories that remind us what true heroism is: resilience, hope, and helping others along the way.
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Deadline for submissions: May 31, 2026
Individuals with Diabetes: Nominee should be someone living with diabetes (of any type) who has shown remarkable courage, determination, or generosity of spirit. There is no restriction on age – heroes can be young or old.
For example, it could be a teenager with type 1 diabetes who excels in sports or academics while managing their condition, or an adult who has lived with diabetes for decades and continues to thrive and give back to others.
Families and Caregivers: We also welcome nominations for families or primary caregivers who, as a unit, demonstrate strength and love in supporting someone with diabetes.
Diabetes is often a “family journey,” and this award can honour those collective efforts (for instance, parents advocating for their child with type 1, or siblings who started a diabetes awareness initiative in support of a family member).
In such cases at least one member of the family would be living with diabetes, and the story of how the family works together would be highlighted.
Inspiration and Attitude: The nominee should inspire others through their attitude and actions.
Do they face diabetes with optimism and determination that lifts those around them? Have they turned their personal challenge into a way to help others – for example, by mentoring newly diagnosed individuals, speaking out about life with diabetes, or simply by being a positive role model in the community?
We are looking for stories that move people and provide hope.
Achievements or Contributions: While this award is about personal courage, we also consider any contributions to the community the hero has made. This could be small or big – from organizing a local diabetes meetup to raising awareness on social media, or even just achieving a personal milestone that breaks stereotypes (like climbing a mountain or running a marathon while managing diabetes).
These accomplishments help show how the nominee has not been defined or limited by their condition.
Please refer to the corresponding rubric for detailed judging criteria to help guide the preparation of your nomination and ensure it aligns with what the Awards Committee will be evaluating.
Download rubric HERE
For more information or questions reach out to
Brandy Burns | Administrative Coordinator
P: (780) 492.6537
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Can be made by anyone touched by the nominee’s story – family members, friends, healthcare providers, teachers, or community members.
The nomination should share the story of the nominee: their background with diabetes, the challenges they’ve faced, and what makes their response to those challenges special. It’s often powerful to include a quote or perspective from the nominee themselves or those close to them, to really paint the picture of why they are a hero.
Support letters or even short anecdotes from others (e.g. “I was afraid when my son was diagnosed, but seeing how John manages his diabetes with such determination gave our family hope…”) can make the nomination very compelling.
Please Note: Submissions that are incomplete will not be considered and will be returned for completion.
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Heroes in Diabetes Award 2024
Jasmine Maghera
Jasmine Maghera is a beacon of kindness and knowledge. Deeply committed to the fight against diabetes, she balances her demanding PhD studies with tireless advocacy and volunteer work.
Jasmine’s passion shines through her efforts to support newly diagnosed children and their families, help others manage their diabetes, and advocate for mental health. Her selflessness and determination, even in the face of her own challenges, make her an inspiration to everyone in the diabetes community.
Heroes in Diabetes Award 2025
Laurie Kanerva
Laurie Kanerva is a devoted mother of two children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
From the moment of her daughter’s diagnosis in 2000, She became the steady presence behind every dose, every late-night low, every school event or sports activity.
Whether she was measuring insulin for a packed lunch, showing up at a birthday party to count carbs for cake, or empowering her daughter to manage competitive diving with independence, she made sure her daughter never had to miss out on the joys of childhood, no matter the challenge. She empowered her with the tools and confidence to manage diabetes independently.
When her son was diagnosed a few years later, she began the journey all over again…recognizing that his needs were different, and giving him space and support in equal measure.
Throughout it all, she brought a deep sense of calm, resourcefulness, and love. She never let her children feel like diabetes defined them and she helped them grow into capable, confident adults.
What makes her story so powerful is the way she carried this responsibility with strength and humility. She didn’t just manage the day-to-day challenges, she instilled a healthy perspective, one that shaped her children’s relationship to their condition and their sense of self.
Her devotion and compassion have made all the difference…not only to her family, but to every parent who sees what’s possible when love is paired with resilience.