Key Influencer Profile - Ron Orr

First elected in 2015 as the Wildrose MLA for Lacombe – Ponoka, Minister Ron Orr was re-elected in 2019 under the United Conservative banner to represent his constituents once again. As part of Premier Kenney’s July cabinet shuffle, Orr was promoted as the Minister of Culture. Orr has publicly stated his excitement to begin in this role, saying “I am very pleased to do this ministry and to serve the people of Alberta. I think it’s the one ministry I’m suited for based on my past experience and skill set.” The Culture portfolio will be a challenge as Alberta reopens, now that entertainers, artists, and other organizations under culture finally are able to engage with the public in-person once again.

Prior to politics, Orr owned and operated a general contracting business. He also served as a Baptist pastor for several churches as an ordained Minister with Canadian Baptist of Western Canada. He holds a master’s degree in Theology from Taylor’s University along with a journeyman carpenter’s ticket and Registered Housing Professional Certificate.  You would be absolutely correct to now call Mr. Orr a minister squared!

Orr is no stranger to the concept of volunteerism either. He served on the governance board of various charities, including the Gull Lake Centre and Calgary’s Mustard Seed Society. For 7 years, Orr was a volunteer emergency responder on a highly active Search and Rescue team as well as a Communications Officer for an Alberta Municipal Emergency Management Community. When not working hard for his community, Orr enjoys time well spent with his wife, 3 children, and 8 grand children. He enjoys his hobbies of reading about history and political biography, wilderness adventure especially by canoe, and woodworking.