Michelle and Rick Soenen
It is our pleasure to recognize Michelle and Rick Soenen as the 2024 recipient of the Magis Award for Influence and Leadership. The Soenens are an accomplished couple whose personal and professional lives are defined by their deep commitment to education, philanthropy, and community service. With diverse academic backgrounds and decades of professional experience, they have made lasting contributions to their fields while raising a family grounded in shared values of faith, generosity, and community involvement.
Michelle Soenen
Michelle Soenen earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from the University of Manitoba, with a focus on accounting and electives in philosophy. Her passion for philosophical thought reflects her belief in the importance of a well-rounded education, which she views as essential for personal growth. Michelle, who has a lifelong commitment to learning, has expressed a desire to return to university one day to further her arts studies or philosophy studies.
Michelle has built a notable career in accounting and education, earning her Chartered Accountant (Chartered Professional Accountant) designation in 1993. She has worked extensively with CPA Canada, serving as a Team Leader for the UFE and CFE certification exam and contributing to the development of future accounting professionals. In the field of education, she has mentored team members in technical skills, leadership, and professional and ethical development. Michelle’s career exemplifies her blend of precision and philosophical thought, combining her business acumen with a deep understanding of ethics and financial reporting.
Michelle also volunteers as a board member and treasurer for St. Paul’s College Foundation and Dashir Community Projects International. Along with Rick, she has also been instrumental in establishing and administering a family giving fund. To instill values of giving and community support in their family, they engage their children in researching and making decisions on charitable activities that the fund will support.
Rick Soenen
Rick Soenen pursued a Bachelor of Arts in History and Economics at the University of Manitoba before completing a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting. His early academic choices reflected his interest in receiving a broad education, but a passion for business led to a successful career in finance. His leadership experience in finance spans over 35 years, with his ability to navigate and manage complex financial environments while fostering talent and teamwork and mentoring future business leaders.
Rick earned his Chartered Accountant (Chartered Professional Accountant) designation in 1991 and spent his early years with Deloitte, but left Deloitte to join a North American-based business process outsourcer for 10 years, where he held various senior finance roles, including Chief Financial Officer. In 2005 Rick returned to Deloitte where he served as a partner for 14 years. During his second tenure with Deloitte Rick was responsible for leading the Private Company practice in Winnipeg and was responsible for Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies program for the Manitoba region. Most recently, Rick served as the Chief Financial Officer of Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd. for the past five years, where he played a vital role in the company’s strategic growth and direction and the eventual sale of the Company to Alberta Investment Management Corporation.
Rick is also active in the community and St. Paul’s College. He has served previously on the Board of Governors and currently as a member of the Residence Committee. Rick is passionate about maintaining the spiritual and social values of institutions like St. Paul’s, recognizing their role in shaping academic success and personal development. Reflecting his passion for sports, Rick also spent 15 years coaching minor hockey, baseball, and ringette.
Shared Values and Legacy
Together, Michelle and Rick emphasize the importance of community, family, and philanthropy. They have instilled these values in their four children, involving them in the family’s charitable efforts through their family giving fund and teaching them the importance of giving back. The Soenens are strong believers in the power of education, not only as a path to career success but as a means of fostering thoughtful, well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. Their commitment to charitable giving and social justice is deeply rooted in their Catholic faith and their desire to live according to God's teachings on how we should treat others and care for humanity.
Michelle and Rick also share a deep appreciation for the role that places like St. Paul’s College play in fostering community and helping students navigate the complexities of modern life. The Soenens emphasize the importance of student residency at St. Paul’s College for fostering both community and spiritual growth. Rick highlights how, in an increasingly complicated and isolating world, the college provides a space for students to feel a sense of belonging while nurturing spiritual clarity. Michelle values the comfortable atmosphere that allows students to openly discuss their faith without fear of judgment, promoting meaningful conversations about religion. Both recognize the challenges students face today, from increased competition to the isolating effects of technology, and they are committed to supporting environments that promote spiritual grounding and connection within a supportive environment.
Michelle and Rick have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to bettering their community and nurturing the next generation of leaders through education, professional mentorship, or philanthropic efforts.
