Assiniboine College will award an Honorary Diploma in Automotive Trades to Doug Murray, CEO of Murray Auto Group, recognizing not only his leadership in Canada's automotive industry but also his enduring commitment to building stronger communities across western Canada.
A third-generation business owner, Murray has helped grow Murray Auto Group into one of the country's most respected dealership networks, spanning more than 30 locations across western Canada. While his business accomplishments are significant, it is his approach to the team around him and his dedication to giving back that are a hallmark of his legacy in the Westman area.
"It was an honour to hear that I would be receiving the honorary diploma," said Murray. "It made me feel thankful to be recognized by Assiniboine. I've always tried to be a good member of the community, and it felt good to receive the call."
Assiniboine College President Mark Frison shared that Murray's influence extends far beyond the automotive sector.
"Doug Murray exemplifies what it means to build both a successful enterprise and a strong community," said Frison. "His leadership has created opportunities for countless employees, while his generosity and compassion have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He represents the values we strive to instil in our graduates."
Murray's leadership philosophy and his approach to business and philanthropy is grounded in relationships and sharing the success principles that have guided the steady growth of the family-owned organization, now in its 100th year of continuous operation.
"You look after the customer, and you look after your staff," he said. "Your business is only as strong as the team that you have working with you."
That same philosophy extends into his community work. The Murray family has been a driving force behind initiatives such as the "A Sense of Home" campaign, which led to the creation of Murray House, a residence that provides a safe, welcoming place for individuals and families travelling to Brandon for cancer care.
"We really like contributing to things that make people's lives better," he said. "When you hear from people who are going through a difficult time, and you know that something like Murray House has made their experience a little easier, that means a lot. It's about helping people feel supported when they need it most."
He added that supporting people through challenging times is a responsibility he takes seriously.
"There's a common theme with the causes we support; we want to help people who are facing challenges," he said. "If you can step in and make even a difference during those times, it matters in a big way. We're in a position where we can help, and that's always something that has been important to me."
Frison noted that Murray's commitment to community care is a defining part of his lasting impact.
"Doug's contributions to community and to supporting people remind our students that success is not just measured in business growth, but in how you lift others up along the way," he said. "His example shows the powerful impact of giving back."
His honorary diploma also reflects a proud family tradition in a way. Murray's mother, Mildred "Millie" Murray, was awarded an Assiniboine honorary diploma in 2015, in recognition of her own contributions to business and community.
"It's kind of cool to be recognized alongside my mother with this," Murray said. "I went to her ceremony, so I was familiar with what it meant, and that is what makes this day even more special."
As he prepares to address graduates, Murray plans to share practical lessons shaped by decades of experience, lessons rooted in discipline, consistency and personal growth.
"My advice to the graduates is this--you create habits all the time, so it is important to want to create good ones," he said. "Things like getting to work early, staying organized, being healthy, and always trying to improve."
Murray will receive his Honorary Diploma as part of the afternoon graduation ceremony for Assiniboine College. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. on June 12th at Assiniboine Credit Union Place.
