Choosing worthy recipients for honorary degrees can be a tricky business. At Mount Allison University, for example, there's controversy over the university's choice to honor bookseller Heather Reisman. And last week at the University of Tennessee, protesters picketed graduation ceremonies when former vice-president and Tennessee native Al Gore delivered his speech. (His views on climate change apparently aren't embraced by everyone.)
This spring during convocation ceremonies at Dalhousie University, a diverse group of eight people will be honored, including a beloved author, judge, entrepreneurs and two Nobel Prize winners. (SEE: Honour roll)
Going forward, the university's senate is inviting members of the Dalhousie community to consider and nominate worthy candidates.
"We're interested in broadening the criteria for the honorary degrees and welcome input from a wide variety of perspectives," says Lloyd Fraser, chair of senate.
The awards are intended to recognize individuals with any combination of extraordinary achievements, service to society and contributions to the university. The honorary degree recipients provide distinction to the convocation ceremony and inspiration for the student body.
Who do you think should be recognized with an honorary degree?
You can provide your suggestions here, or for information on nomination guidelines, contact the Honorary Degree Committee: senate@dal.ca, or 902-494-3715, or www.senate.dal.ca.