REGINA — During National Volunteer Week, Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre recognized 14 individuals from across Saskatchewan for their acts of volunteerism. From Regina, Karen Howard and Dr. Renatta Varma were invited to a special ceremony at Government House to receive the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal.
"The 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal recipients are an impressive group of people," Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre said. "They have worked generously and tirelessly in support of arts and culture, sports and recreation, youth and seniors, veterans and the military, and those living with disabilities and chronic illness. I am thrilled to acknowledge these remarkable individuals who have contributed in countless ways to our province."
Karen Howard
Howard has dedicated decades of volunteer service to developing figure skating in Saskatchewan and across Canada, and just recently returned from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy. As an International Judge, she mentors skaters at every level—from beginners to international competitors—and provides ongoing support by monitoring programs, evaluating elements, and guiding coaches. She is equally committed to strengthening the officiating community, frequently moderating clinics, delivering update seminars, and mentoring new judges. Known for her professionalism and generosity, she makes herself available after every competition to answer questions from skaters, coaches, and officials. Her steadfast volunteer efforts and global-level expertise have made her an invaluable ambassador for her sport and the province.
Dr. Renatta Varma
Dr. Renatta Varma has dedicated decades to volunteer service that spans cultural, civic, artistic, and humanitarian sectors across Saskatchewan. A longtime CNIB board member and former Chair, she led the Guide Dogs with Purpose Gala, raising more than $600,000 to fund six guide dogs and support tens of thousands of people with vision loss. Her volunteer leadership extends to the Regina International Film Festival, Cultural Connections Regina, the RCMP Heritage Centre, the Hindu Samaj of Southern Saskatchewan, and youth athletics boards. She also contributes hands-on support, fundraising, governance, and personal financial gifts. She is a previous recipient of the YWCA Women of Distinction Award, the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal and has been recently appointed an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the 10th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA. Her service embodies generosity, inclusion, and the Saskatchewan spirit.
Karen Howard
Karen Howard has dedicated decades of volunteer service to developing figure skating in Saskatchewan and across Canada, and just recently returned from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. As an International Judge, she mentors skaters at every level — from beginners to international competitors — and provides ongoing support by monitoring programs, evaluating elements, and guiding coaches. She is equally committed to strengthening the officiating community, frequently moderating clinics, delivering update seminars, and mentoring new judges. Known for her professionalism and generosity, she makes herself available after every competition to answer questions from skaters, coaches, and officials. Her steadfast volunteer efforts and global-level expertise have made her an invaluable ambassador for her sport and the province.
The Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal was established in 1995 to recognize the extraordinary work of volunteers across the province. Since its creation, the medal has been awarded to 286 deserving individuals.
