Mount Saint Vincent University is pleased to announce that Alexa McDonough and Dr. Margaret Somerville are this year’s honorary degree recipients.
Their roles in humanitarian and social service, their focus on the progress of the status of women as well as their contribution to higher education and leadership has led the Mount to select these two women.
“Honouring the accomplishments of these two women during our Convocation ceremonies is truly a privilege for our University,” says Kathryn Laurin, Mount President and Vice-Chancellor.
“The inspiration and dedication they have shown in their own fields of expertise will encourage excellence of our graduates as they begin their journeys beyond the walls of the Mount.”
Ms. McDonough spent 28 years leading the New Democratic Party in Provincial and Federal roles. Among the many of her accomplishments, she was the first woman to lead a recognized political party in Canada. Ms. McDonough is known for her encouragement of diversity in the government in Atlantic Canada.
Dr. Somerville, the founding director of the McGill Center for Medicine, Ethics and Law, is committed to the public’s right to be a part of the decisions that guide our society. She is widely published and has spoken internationally on many difficult questions facing today’s society.
Dr. Somerville will address the graduates on Thursday, May 14 at 2 p.m. and receive her honorary degree at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony on Friday May 15. Ms. McDonough will address the graduates and be presented with her honorary degree at 2 p.m. during Fridays Convocation.
“It’s exciting to have our graduating students end their time with us with the words of two highly respected women-both of whom have contributed greatly to the betterment of our society through their work,” says president Laurin.
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For more information contact:
Akiko Lovett
t. 457-6439
c. 441-0505