Three Honorary Degrees Named
Nipissing University to honour three inspiring Canadians with honorary degrees at 2025 convocation ceremonies
Nipissing University will present honorary degrees to three remarkable individuals during its 2025 Convocation ceremonies: Olympic athlete Jennifer Jones, educator and advocate Janine Lafrenière and award-winning musician William Prince.
Honorary degrees, the University’s highest distinction, are presented to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their fields and to society.
“We are deeply honoured to recognize Jennifer Jones, Janine Lafrenière and William Prince for their leadership, creativity, and commitment to making a difference,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor. “Their array of achievements reflect the values we hold as an institution and will inspire our graduates as they prepare to make their own impact on the world.”
- Jennifer Jones is one of Canada’s most decorated athletes, with six national titles, two world championships, and an Olympic gold medal earned during a historic undefeated run in 2014. Widely recognized as the greatest female skip in Canadian history, she has also built a successful career as a lawyer, motivational speaker, broadcaster, and community advocate. Her contributions on and off the ice have earned her numerous accolades. She will receive the Doctor of Education (honoris causa) from the Schulich School of Education on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
- Janine Lafrenière has dedicated her career to supporting survivors and ending gender-based violence. A former front-line worker turned community leader, she has expanded critical services and built cross-sector partnerships to strengthen local responses to intimate partner violence. She will receive a Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) during the Faculty of Education and Professional Studies convocation on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
- William Prince, a JUNO Award-winning singer-songwriter from Peguis First Nation, has captivated audiences across Canada and beyond with his soulful storytelling, rich voice, and thoughtful reflections on identity, love, and resilience. His work bridges cultures and builds understanding through music. He will receive the Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) from the Faculty of Arts and Science on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
To read the full biographies of each recipient, visit nipissingu.ca/about/convocation/honorary-degrees
Nipissing University’s Convocation ceremonies will take place June 10 – 12, 2025 and will see over 1000 students cross the stage. Each honorary degree recipient will address graduating students as part of the celebration of academic achievement, perseverance, and community.
For more information about Convocation, visit nipissingu.ca/convocation. To watch the ceremonies remotely, access the livestream at http://live.nipissingu.ca/NULive.html
