The medal recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society and honours outstanding achievements.

A certain number of individuals received the medal by virtue of their office, such as provincial and federal elected members, judges, aboriginal leaders, and community and municipal leaders.

Other recipients were selected based on the recommendation of governmental and non-governmental organizations and Members of the Legislative Assembly.

The medal displays the provincial motto under a wreath of western red lilies, surmounted by the St. Edward's Crown.

The provincial shield of arms is on the reverse of the medal, which is suspended from a gold-colored ribbon with two narrow diagonal green stripes.