The Senate Sub-Committee on Honorary Degrees & Ceremonials encourages members of the York University community to submit nominations for honorary degrees.
The awarding of honorary degrees is an important feature of convocation at York University. By recognizing individuals whose achievements represent the values York cherishes, whose benefactions have strengthened the community and the institution, and whose public lives are deemed worthy of emulation, the act of awarding honorary degrees enriches convocation for our graduands and guests.
A candidate for an honorary degree must meet one or more of the following general criteria:
- has eminence in their field;
- has demonstrated service to humankind, Canada, Ontario, York University or a particular community in a significant manner;
- has provided a significant benefaction to the University; and/or
- is someone whose public contributions to society are worthy of emulation.
To nominate a candidate, complete a nomination form and submit it along with two letters of support. The material is treated as confidential and should not be disclosed to the nominee.
Detailed guidelines on nomination requirements, process and answers to frequently asked questions can be found on the sub-committee website. Questions about the requirements or process can be directed to James Pratt at jpratt@yorku.ca or Elaine MacRae at emacrae@yorku.ca. For reference, a list of honorary degree recipients is also available on the website.
Completed nomination packages can be submitted electronically to jpratt@yorku.ca or emacrae@yorku.ca.