Bob Steadward

Bob Steadward studied at the University of Alberta, initially planning on a dental career, but eventually graduated with a degree in physical education. He later earned a masters degree and a PhD in phys ed from the University of Oregon. He returned to the University of Alberta in 1970 as a professor, specializing in exercise physiology, anatomy, and athletic injuries, and eventually published over 150 peer-reviewed articles, mostly on sport for disabled athletes.

In 1971 Steadward founded and was President of the Alberta Wheelchair Sports Association. He was founder, President, and chair of the Canadian Sports Fund for the Physically Disabled from 1979-89. Steadward first served on the Canadian Paralympic Committee in 1974 and was President from 1986-91.

Bob Steadward helped found the International Paralympic Committee in 1989 and served as its first President from then until 2001. In 2000 he was co-opted onto the International Olympic Committee (IOC), serving until 2003.

Steadward received numerous honors and awards for his work with disabled sport. He was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1999. In 2001, he received an honorary doctor of law degree from Leuven University in Belgium, while in 2002 he received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal. Steadward was named as Edmontonian of the Century in 2004 and as Albertan of the Century in 2005.