Simon Fraser University will confer honorary degrees on six distinguished Canadians during its spring (June 15-18) and fall (Oct. 7-8) convocation ceremonies.

The four spring recipients are:

Beverley Busson, retired RCMP commissioner who in 1974 was among the first group of women to graduate from the RCMP academy and went on to become B.C.’s first female commanding officer in 2000 and Canada’s first female top Mountie in 2006.

Alexandra Morton, B.C. biologist and activist whose work linking sea lice infestation in wild salmon to fish farming in the Broughton Archipelago has drawn international attention and challenged both the salmon farm industry and the government officials who regulate it.

Gordon Gibson, Vancouver political columnist, author and former Liberal politician who served as assistant to Prime Minister Trudeau from 1968-1972, ran in three federal elections, was elected to the provincial legislature twice and served as B.C. Liberal Party leader.

Julio Montaner, Argentine-Canadian physician, director of the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Canada's largest HIV/AIDS research, treatment and education facility, president of the International AIDS Society and one of the world’s leading AIDS specialists.

The two fall recipients are:

Pat Carney, former federal senator, MP and minister responsible for the Canada-U.S. free trade negotiations in the Mulroney government, has been a strong voice for B.C., a role model for female politicians and an advocate for aboriginal women’s rights.

George A. Cohon, founder of McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada Limited/McDonald’s Russia and founder of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Canada/Russia, a charity dedicated to helping children with serious illnesses or disabilities and their families lead happier, healthier lives.

*Photos available upon request.

Correction: March 24, 2010
The original information about Pat Carney has been revised.

Six to receive honorary SFU degrees