Minister Fletcher is an alumni of University of Manitoba, obtaining a degree in Geological Engineering in 1995. After becoming a quadriplegic after an unfortunate accident, he resumed his studies and pursued an MBA back at the University of Manitoba. It was during this time when he was democratically elected for two terms as President of the University of Manitoba Students' Union (UMSU) from 1999 until 2001, bringing in significant and substantial reforms. During this time he obtained a Master's in Business Administration (MBA). He also served two terms on the University of Manitoba Board of Governors and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA).

In 2004, Steven Fletcher was elected to the House of Commons becoming the first C4 quadriplegic in the world to be elected to a national legislature. Steven Fletcher was first elected to the House of Commons in 2004 and re-elected in 2006. He served as the Official Opposition Critic for Health and was a member of the Standing Committee on Health. Mr. Fletcher was twice elected the President of the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba and has played a leading role in many community organizations.

In 2008 Fletcher was appointed as Minister of State for Democratic Reform and in this capacity is responsible for improving accountability in government, ranging from election finances to the electoral system and Senate reform, continuing a trend he started right here at the University of Manitoba.

His efforts on behalf of Hepatitis C victims, and the leadership of Prime Minister Harper and Health Minister Clement, led to the announcement that all Hepatitis C victims will receive the financial compensation that is so long over due. Fletcher also championed the need for the full implementation and funding of the Cancer Control, Mental Health and Heart Disease Strategies which led to a commitment to fully fund and implement the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control. In recognition of his hard work, Fletcher is a recipient of the National Cancer Leadership Forum’s (NCLF) inaugural Award for Outstanding Individual Leadership and the Courage and Leadership Award from the Canadian Cancer Society.

Fletcher has also been inducted into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame, he has received the King Clancy Award and he is also the recipient of her Majesty's Golden Jubilee Medal for his contributions to Canada. Fletcher is also a recipient of the Champions of Mental Health award for his work in raising awareness for Mental Health.

Fletcher refuses to let his disability define him, but says it has helped him realize what is truly important. “I have learned in no uncertain terms the importance of family, community, and a social and political system that helps, not hinders, individuals," he says. “We are much stronger when we take the focus off of what people can’t do, and realize that we all have great potential."

We look forward to what will surely be an engaging conversation with Minister Fletcher. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to embrace this opportunity and we hope to see you there.