WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg today announced it will award four honorary degrees at its 2013 Spring Convocation to prominent Canadians who have contributed to the betterment of our community.
“The University of Winnipeg is proud to recognize four outstanding Canadians who come from diverse backgrounds, yet have contributed immensely to our communities through a shared commitment to philanthropy, education and volunteerism,” expressed Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, UWinnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor.
Ken Dryden – Honorary Doctor of Letters
Thursday, June 6 at 9:30 a.m.
Renowned politician, author, sports broadcaster, philanthropist and former hockey star, Ken Dryden will be honoured for his ardent support of concussion education and prevention, as well as educational access for youth in care — exemplified by the Ken Dryden Scholarships. The Former Minister of Social Development and Member of Parliament is an Officer of the Order of Canada, and a celebrated hockey legend. Dryden won five Stanley Cup titles as a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens in the 1970s, which, along with his all-star and 1972 Summit Series appearances, helped secure his place in the Hockey Hall of Fame. He has authored books on several topics, including the game of hockey, educational system reform and the future of Canada. Dryden is an inspiring leader and visionary who remains committed to improving community.
Rick Frost – Honorary Doctor of Laws
Thursday, June 6 at 2:30 p.m.
As the Chief Executive Officer of the Winnipeg Foundation, Frost is renowned for his accomplishments and dedicated service to Manitoba. During his tenure, Frost has grown the Foundation’s assets from $150 million to $440 million. He is also a driving force behind the Nourishing Potential Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation, which aims to endow $5 million to support the food budgets of youth-serving agencies. Frost has made his mark as an active volunteer and philanthropist who has helped strengthen the sustainability of countless charities and organizations across the province. He served as Chief Commissioner at the City of Winnipeg and continues to display a strong sense of community — serving on several prominent regional, national and international boards. Frost strives to address social inequities and is dedicated to creating opportunities for new Canadians and the Aboriginal community.
Ajit Kaur Deol receiving Honorary Doctor of Laws
Ajit Kaur Deol – Honorary Doctor of Laws
Friday, June 7 at 9:30 a.m.
Deol, a retired teacher and principal who came to Canada from India in 1967, has committed herself to issues in education, social services and multiculturalism throughout her career. She is a model Canadian citizen, a pillar of support for her Indo-Canadian community, a facilitator of intercultural understanding and an officer in the Order of Manitoba. Deol has served on several prominent boards, including the Manitoba Human Rights commission and the Canadian Multiculturalism Council, promoting intercultural tolerance and understanding. She is a strong advocate for education and has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of her students — especially the marginalized and disenfranchised — through better policies and governance.
George Heshka will receive an Honorary Doctor of Letters
George Heshka – Honorary Doctor of Letters
Friday, June 7 at 9:30 a.m.
Heshka is a visionary principal who has transformed Sisler, the largest high school in Manitoba. Under Heshka’s 25 years of leadership, Sisler, located in Winnipeg’s north end, has become an innovative institute with award-winning programs. In recent years, Sisler was acclaimed as one of the ten best schools in Canada and the best all-round high school by Maclean’s Magazine. Heshka is also a recent recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his commitment to education and community excellence. Thanks to Heshka’s commitment and vision, Sisler is renowned for providing quality education and creating generations of leaders.
Graduate and undergraduate degrees will be conferred at UWinnipeg’s Spring Convocation at the Duckworth Centre on Thursday, June 6, 9:30 a.m. (Arts); 2:30 p.m. (Science, Business and Economics); Friday, June 7, 9:30 a.m. (Education, Theology, Marriage and Family Therapy).
Detailed information about Spring Convocation 2013 is available at: http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/convocation-index
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