The Public Service Week Planning Committee is thrilled to launch the 2026 Public Service Week Calendar of Events. Our theme this year is Building Public Service for Today and Tomorrow!
2026 Employee Recognition Awards
Departmental Emoji Challenge
Healthy Habits Bingo Card
Networking Panel: Youth and Those New to Government
Public Service in Colors
2026 Public Service Week Premier's Message
As we celebrate Public Service Week, I want to thank public servants across Prince Edward Island for the work you do every day to support Islanders.
This year’s theme, Building Public Service for Today and Tomorrow, reflects the important work happening across government to serve Islanders today while continuing to strengthen our public service for the future.
Across every department and every role, your professionalism, dedication, and care help keep our province moving forward.
Thank you for everything you do for Islanders.
Hon. Rob Lantz
Premier of Prince Edward Island
Message from the Prince Edward Island Union of Public Sector Employees
This National Public Service Week, we proudly recognize and thank our members and all public service workers across Prince Edward Island. Your dedication, professionalism, and hard work help deliver the services Islanders rely on every day. The public service is the foundation of effective government, strong communities, and a robust economy. UPSE is proud to stand with you, advocate for you, and celebrate your contributions. Thank you for all that you do.
Karen Jackson
UPSE President
We are excited to announce the 2026 Public Service Week calendar of events. This year’s theme, Building Public Service for Today and Tomorrow, reflects PEI’s commitment to strong, responsive, and forward-looking public service. It recognizes the dedicated work being done today to serve islanders with integrity and professionalism, while also investing in the people, skills and innovation needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
As we kick off another exciting Public Service Week, we invite you to join in the fun and refreshing activities designed to celebrate you!
MONDAY, JUNE 15:
Time: 8:00 am Click here to watch Premier Lantz’s video message to all Civil Service employees.
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Healthy Habits Bingo Card – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Public Service in Colors – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Join us in celebrating Public Service Week with a colorful and imaginative picture decorating contest! This is your chance to express your creativity and show your unique style. There are no limits to your creativity (no AI please). Use any materials or methods you like, including (but not limited to): markers, paint, crayons, colored pencils, glitter, sequins, stickers, sand or textured materials, natural elements like crushed leaves, petals or twigs.
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Ensure your artwork is clearly visible (flat) and take a picture. Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Hint: The more creative you are, the more chances you have to win!
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Departmental Emoji Challenge – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Whether you're new to the team or have been a government employee for a while, kick off your day with a fun activity! Connect each set of emojis with the corresponding government department. Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Time: 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Event: Long Term Service Awards Luncheon
Venue: Rodd Royalty, 14 Capital Drive, Charlottetown (invite only event)
Employees celebrating 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 years of service, as of December 31, 2025, have been invited to attend this luncheon with the Hon. Premier Rob Lantz to recognize and celebrate their dedication to public service.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – get out for a walk for a great stress release!!!!
TUESDAY, JUNE 16:
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Event: Career Planning
Venue: Virtual via Teams (click on link below or copy and paste into your web browser): https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/26928971017282?p=ug3gixws4fvwo3uEPh
Facilitator: Monic Vokey, Recruitment Consultant
This course is designed to help discover your career interests and identify paths toward new or different professional opportunities. What are the essential elements that make your work meaningful and satisfying?
Through guided reflection and practical exercises, participants will assess their current situation by identifying potential barriers to career growth and exploring strategies to overcome them. The course introduces career pathing techniques to support long-term planning, while also helping individuals define their ideal workplace conditions. A key component includes skills assessment training, enabling participants to better understand their work style, strengths, and preference profiles.
In the workplace, learnings from this course can be directly applied to ongoing career development. Participants will be encouraged to make career planning a regular, annual practice, stay informed about evolving job and industry trends, and actively explore new education and training opportunities. By the end of the course, each participant will develop a personalized action plan to guide their career growth and decision-making.
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Event: Youth and New Professionals Network Panel
Venue: The Carriage House, Beaconsfield, 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown (in person)
Are you new to the Government of PEI or supporting employees who are new to government? We welcome you to attend a panel discussion titled "Preparing for Tomorrow's Public Service: Perspectives from Early and Mid-Career Employees New to Government".
This panel brings together four employees at different career stages who are new to the PEI government to share perspectives on supporting tomorrow’s workforce through positive change and evolving workplaces. Attendees will gain practical insights and inspiration through a dynamic and interactive conversation. No registration is necessary.
Come grab a coffee, listen to fellow colleagues talk about their experience, and celebrate during Public Service Week! Feel free to join for a portion if your schedule does not allow you to attend the full event. There is no virtual or recorded option offered at this time.
Any questions can be directed to Alex MacDonald-Ogunleye at asmacdonald@gov.pe.ca
or Maigan Hawke at mhawke@gov.pe.ca
The Youth and New Professionals Network is for employees who identify as young, young at heart, early in their public service careers, or mid-career professionals that are new to Government of PEI.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – If it’s raining, walk indoors – we have lots of stairs!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17:
Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Event: Tunes and Treats
Venue: Provincial Administration Buildings (PAB) Courtyard – behind Shaw Building North (105 Rochford St.) Shaw Building South (90 Rochford St.) and beside Sullivan Building (16 Fitzroy St.) and Jones Building (11 Kent Street).
Refreshment: ADL Ice cream (lactose free & gluten free option)
Join us in the PAB Courtyard before, after, or during your lunch break for a cool treat while you enjoy some live acoustic music by Stephen Szwarc.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – great way to work a screen break into your day!!!
THURSDAY, JUNE 18:
Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Event: BBQ and Celebration of Public Service and Cultural Diversity
Venue: Provincial Administration Buildings (PAB) Courtyard – behind Shaw Building North (105 Rochford St.) Shaw Building South (90 Rochford St.) and beside Sullivan Building (16 Fitzroy St.) and Jones Building (11 Kent Street).
Please note in the event of rain, this event will be held on Friday, June 19 at the same time.
Special Guests:
Mi’kmaq Elder and Knowledge Keeper: Elder Thirly Levi is from Abegweit First Nation. She is a circle keeper, pipe carrier, and sweat lodge keeper. Elder Thirly is a traditional Elder, storyteller and knowledge keeper. Elder Thirly is a member of Elsipogtog First Nation and resides in Scotchfort.
Xclusiv Crew: Xclusiv Crew is a black-owned dance company based in Charlottetown, PE. The company was founded by Joe Dames in 2010 and has grown tremendously over the past decade. The company is now under the creative direction of both Joe and his wife, Dawn Dames. Since leaving the Bahamas together, Joe and Dawn have cemented themselves as vital members of the PEI dance community. They both write, direct, and choreograph together on the island; their recent highlights are Street Fusion, Island Vibe, and Island Steps with the Charlottetown Festival and the 2023 Canada Games Opening Ceremony.
UPEI Chinese Student Scholars Association: The University of Prince Edward Island Chinese Student Scholars Association will be performing Tai chi and a Chinese dance. The University of Prince Edward Island Chinese Students and Scholars Association (UPEI CSSA) works to promote Chinese culture, support multiculturalism, and strengthen community connections across PEI. Through cultural performances, student engagement, and community events, the organization is committed to sharing Chinese heritage and fostering cultural understanding and inclusion.
HavenWood Dancers: HavenWood Dancers of the Haven Wood Art Studio are members of the award-winning dance company troupe, Haven Wood Dancers, under the direction of Michelle Banks. They have performed and competed on and off the Island at numerous events and once captured the highest mark for group dance at an event in Halifax. They will be performing a variety of styles of dance including Scottish and Irish dancing and novelty dance.
Salsa Con Victoria Latino Dance Group: Salsa Con Victoria is a Latin dance organization in Charlottetown, PEI founded in 2025 with the goal of spreading the joy of Cuban and Latin dance across PEI through classes, events, performances and community-building experiences. Salsa Con Victoria has performed at events such as the DiverseCity festival (2025), the PEI Fashion show and Whisperwoodpalooza (both in May 2026). The group consists of many different nationalities all united through Latin dance and culture.
Therapy Dog Landon and Handler Michelle: A Therapy Dog is shared by a group of people, providing love and affection through touch.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – invite a colleague to join you!!!
FRIDAY, JUNE 19:
Time: 10:00 am – 10:45 am
Event: Sleep Hygiene, Sleep Support and Other Helpful Sleep Information
Venue: Virtual via Teams (click on link below or copy and paste into web browser): https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/272796721671034?p=C9KhxA7ksCjBgFS2SH
Facilitator: Robert Stavert, Employee Assistance Program Manager
This virtual session is designed for employees who may benefit from learning about how to improve their sleep. The session will explore various sleep hygiene practices, up-to-date sleep research, and various sleep support approaches relevant to sleep challenges.
Activity: Last Day to submit your Healthy Habits Bingo Card, Public Service in Colors, and Departmental Emoji Challenge via email psw@gov.pe.ca for a chance to WIN prizes!
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – great way to boost your energy!!!
Happy Public Service Week!
2026 PSW Planning Committee
We are excited to announce the 2026 Public Service Week calendar of events. This year’s theme, Building Public Service for Today and Tomorrow, reflects PEI’s commitment to strong, responsive, and forward-looking public service. It recognizes the dedicated work being done today to serve islanders with integrity and professionalism, while also investing in the people, skills and innovation needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
As we kick off another exciting Public Service Week, we invite you to join in the fun and refreshing activities designed to celebrate you!
MONDAY, JUNE 15:
Time: 8:00 am Click here for Premier Lantz’s message via video to all Civil Service employees.
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Healthy Habits Bingo Card – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Public Service in Colors – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Join us in celebrating Public Service Week with a colorful and imaginative picture decorating contest! This is your chance to express your creativity and show your unique style. There are no limits to your creativity (no AI please). Use any materials or methods you like, including (but not limited to): markers, paint, crayons, colored pencils, glitter, sequins, stickers, sand or textured materials, natural elements like crushed leaves, petals or twigs.
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Ensure your artwork is clearly visible (flat) and take a picture. Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Hint: The more creative you are, the more chances you have to win!
Time: 8:00 am
Duration: June 15 to June 19 at 4:00 pm
Event: Departmental Emoji Challenge – participate at a time that works for you and your workday!
Venue: Your Work Location
Participation Instructions: Whether you're new to the team or have been a government employee for a while, kick off your day with a fun activity! Connect each set of emojis with the corresponding government department. Submissions will be accepted via email psw@gov.pe.ca until end of workday Friday, June 19 for a chance to WIN great prizes!
Time: 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Event: Long Term Service Awards Luncheon
Venue: Rodd Royalty, 14 Capital Drive, Charlottetown (invite only event)
Employees celebrating 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 years of service have been invited to attend this luncheon with the Hon. Premier Rob Lantz to recognize and celebrate their dedication to public service.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – get out for a walk for a great stress release!
TUESDAY, JUNE 16:
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Event: Career Planning
Venue: Virtual via Teams (click on link below or copy and paste into web browser): https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/26928971017282?p=ug3gixws4fvwo3uEPh
Facilitator: Monic Vokey, Recruitment Consultant
This course is designed to help discover your career interests and identify paths toward new or different professional opportunities. What are the essential elements that make your work meaningful and satisfying?
Through guided reflection and practical exercises, participants will assess their current situation by identifying potential barriers to career growth and exploring strategies to overcome them. The course introduces career pathing techniques to support long-term planning, while also helping individuals define their ideal workplace conditions. A key component includes skills assessment training, enabling participants to better understand their work style, strengths, and preference profiles.
In the workplace, learnings from this course can be directly applied to ongoing career development. Participants will be encouraged to make career planning a regular, annual practice, stay informed about evolving job and industry trends, and actively explore new education and training opportunities. By the end of the course, each participant will develop a personalized action plan to guide their career growth and decision-making.
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Event: Youth and New Professionals Network Panel
Venue: The Carriage House, Beaconsfield, 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown (in person)
Are you new to the Government of PEI or supporting employees who are new to government? We welcome you to attend a panel discussion titled "Preparing for Tomorrow's Public Service: Perspectives from Early and Mid-Career Employees New to Government".
This panel brings together four employees at different career stages who are new to the PEI government to share perspectives on supporting tomorrow’s workforce through positive change and evolving workplaces. Attendees will gain practical insights and inspiration through a dynamic and interactive conversation. No registration is necessary.
Come grab a coffee, listen to fellow colleagues talk about their experience, and celebrate during Public Service Week! Feel free to join for a portion if your schedule does not allow you to attend the full event. There is no virtual or recorded option offered at this time.
Any questions can be directed to Alex MacDonald-Ogunleye at asmacdonald@gov.pe.ca or Maigan Hawke at mhawke@gov.pe.ca.
The Youth and New Professionals Network is for employees who identify as young, young at heart, early in their public service careers, or mid-career professionals that are new to Government of PEI.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – If it’s raining, walk indoors – we have lots of stairs!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17:
Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Event: Cool Treats and K9 Meets
Venue: Grassy area East Side of Access PEI, 120 Heather Moyse Dr., Summerside (Building between Access PEI and the Marina)
Refreshment: ADL Ice Cream (lactose free & gluten free options)
Come cool off with a treat and meet Lucy the Facility Dog, and her handler, Cpl. Jennifer Driscoll, from Summerside Police Services!
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – great way to work a screen break into your day!!!
THURSDAY, JUNE 18:
Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Event: Public Service Appreciation BBQ
Venue: Rear of Holman Building, 250 Water St., Summerside (Farmer’s Market entrance). Wheelchair accessibility through the Southwest entrance.
Please note in the event of rain, this event will proceed.
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – invite a colleague to join you!!!
FRIDAY, JUNE 19:
Time: 10:00 am – 10:45 am
Event: Sleep Hygiene, Sleep Support, and Other Helpful Sleep Information
Venue: Virtual via Teams (click on link below or copy and paste into web browser): https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/272796721671034?p=C9KhxA7ksCjBgFS2SH
Facilitator: Robert Stavert, Employee Assistance Program Manager
This virtual session is designed for employees who may benefit from learning about how to improve their sleep. The session will explore various sleep hygiene practices, up-to-date sleep research, and various sleep support approaches relevant to sleep challenges.
Activity: Last Day to submit your Healthy Habits Bingo Card, Public Service in Colors, and Departmental Emoji Challenge via email to psw@gov.pe.ca for a chance to WIN prizes!
Activity: 15 – Minute Wellness Walk – great way to boost your energy!!!
Happy Public Service Week!
2026 PSW Planning Committee