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Recommend candidates for an honorary doctorate

You can make an impact on the university by nominating someone outstanding for an honorary degree.

The Honorary Degrees Committee wants your recommendations of individuals who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Made an outstanding intellectual and/or scholarly contribution in their chosen field of academic eminence;
  • Provided outstanding service and/or contributions to greater society through non-academic achievements and/or public service; or
  • Made major contributions in areas relevant to the mission of the university and/or to Durham Region/Northumberland County.

The Committee encourages nominations that reflect the diversity of Canadian society.

How to nominate an honorary degree candidate:

  • Create a one-page PDF document that includes the name of your nominee and their contact information (if you have it).
  • Add your contact information as their nominator.
  • Include the reasons they fit with the university’s honorary degree criteria along with appropriate background information such as:
    • Basic personal information.
    • Summary of nominee’s achievements.
    • Other appropriate supporting documentation.

Honorary degree process:

  • In the Fall of 2025, the Committee will hold its first meeting to consider nominees for 2026 honorary degrees.
  • Please submit your nomination by Friday, August 29 if you would like your nominee considered at the Committee’s Fall meeting.
  • Nominations submitted after August 29 will be added to the pool of nominees and will be considered at a subsequent Committee meeting.
  • The Committee will recommend to the President a list of candidates for consideration.
  • The President will select recipients from the list and invite them to accept the honorary degree.
  • Whenever possible, names of honorary degree recipients are reported to Academic Council before being announced to the media.

Note: You will only hear back from the Committee if your nominee is selected to receive an honorary degree or if they would like further information on the candidate. In addition, please do not let your nominee know they have been nominated; only the President will contact the selected candidates.

If you have questions, or would like further information about the selection process, contact Nicola Crow, University Secretary, Office of the President.