The Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations honored two University of Alberta faculty members during a special ceremony Sept. 18 in Edmonton.

Claude Couture, a professor of social sciences and Canadian studies at Campus Saint-Jean, a Francophone component of the U of A, and Diane Conrad, an associate professor of drama and theatre education, each received this year’s CAFA Dis­tinguished Academic Award.

The annual awards recognize academic staff members who through their research and/or other scholarly, creative or professional involvement have made exceptional contributions to the community-at-large.

Couture, described as “CSJ’s most visible scholar” received the award in recognition of his 20-year contribution in developing the public profile of the university’s Canadian Studies program.

Conrad, who won her award in the early career category, was recognized for her academic research and innovative work on the poten­tial of popular theatre to transform the lives of “at risk” youth. Conrad arrived at the University of Alberta in 2004.

“The recipients are being honoured by their peers,” said CAFA president Linda Bonneville in announcing the awards. “I’m delighted that we are able to recognize in this way the extraordinary contributions our colleagues make to the wider community beyond the aca­demy. The work of Dr. Claude Couture and Dr. Diane Conrad is exemplary in this respect and worthy of celebration.”