Honorary Degree Committee

The mandate of the Board of Governors Honorary Degrees Committee is to oversee the nomination of candidates for honorary degrees and to advise the Board of Governors on the awarding and revocation of honorary degrees.

An honorary degree is generally considered that one of the most prestigious honors any university can bestow upon an individual; a degree which is conferred honoris causa (for the sake of honor). This type of degree is meant to recognize an individual’s exceptional achievement or distinction in a field or activity consonant with the mission of the institution. In regard to honorary degrees bestowed by Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts), the focus includes art, craft and design with possible (when appropriate) expansion into the broader fields of creativity and innovation.

Honorary degrees provide an opportunity for the institution to publicly honour exceptional and unique individuals of national and international stature whose accomplishments support the ideals of AUArts and can serve as an example for our students, alumni, community and society. 

The deadline to submit nominations for May 2024 convocation has passed. However, we are still accepting nominations to be considered for future years. 

Honorary Degree Procedure

The AUArts Honorary Degree Committee oversees selection of recipients.

View Honorary Degree Procedure

Honorary Degree Nominations

Recognize an individual’s exceptional achievement.

Submit a Nomination

Honorary Degree Committee Terms of Reference

Expectations and accountabilities for the Honorary Degree Committee.

View Terms of Reference