The Barb Mikulin Award was created in Alberta to honour a dedicated member of the CLXT profession. Barb was an active member in the ACCLXT and a contributing member to her community. She tirelessly volunteered for everything and was a shining example to all who knew her. She contributed countless hours to the growth of the CLXT profession in Alberta, expected great things and wanted to ensure that the profession achieved them. Barb was the definition of professionalism, and above all else, put her patients first, and treated all people – coworkers, employees, friends – with the utmost respect.

This award recognizes a CSCLXT member who demonstrates these qualities in a Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologist. The recipient will be announced at the end of CLXT Week. The Nominee for this award will:

• Be a Class A Voting Member in good standing with the CSCLXT
• Be an active participant in a provincial or national society or regulatory body by offering her/his time and efforts
• Be someone who actively serves as a volunteer in their work and/or community
• Be someone who helps promote the CLXT profession
• Be a mentor or advocate for the profession

We are pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Barb Mikulin Award is:

Norma Cranston

Below are the nominators thoughts on Norma:

Norma has dedicated 45 years to the CLXT profession, serving the community of Ponoka through her work at both the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, and the Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury. I can think of no better person deserving of this award than Norma.

Norma’s work ethic is unmatched- she has worked full-time for most of her 45 years as a CLXT, and many more before working in Medical Records. Although she officially retired in 2023, Norma continues to support her team though many staffing challenges by working casual shifts, sometimes up to 3 or 4 days a week! She is rarely seen sitting down! Her commitment to patient care goes far beyond technical skill. Whether it’s offering a warm blanket, shoulder to cry on, a friendly chat or political debate, Norma’s compassion and empathy make her patient care second to none.

When Norma is not at work, she is deeply involved in the community. She has volunteered for many groups over the years, but most recently she has been volunteering with Ponoka FCSS, Ponoka Anglican Church group, JJ Collett Natural Area Foundation, many of hours decorating for the Ponoka & District Health Foundation’s Festival of Trees, and is always willing to fill a shift at fundraising casinos for any group that will ask. She is always willing to help.

Norma is a passionate advocate for the CLXT profession. Norma has enjoyed mentoring CLXT students for many years. Though she often will say she is not the best teacher, we all know this is not true; the patience and the compassion she shows our students have helped mold many of the CLXTs that are working through the province today.

Norma has maintained a lifelong passion for learning, attending as many conferences and webinars as she is able to that related to both her profession and personal wellness. She is always excited for opportunities to expand her knowledge as well as maintaining strong connections with others in her profession over the years. She is always grateful for a chance to reconnect with old friends and colleagues.

Norma consistently provides a face to the profession in Ponoka- bringing warmth, professionalism and integrity to every interaction. She is well known and loved in our community, and many people still ask daily if she is working. Her dedication to helping others and promoting the CLXT profession makes her a truly deserving recipient of the the Barb Mikulin Award.

Congratulations Norma