The Honourable Janet Austin, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

The Honourable Janet Austin has devoted her career to advancing inclusion, social justice, and civic engagement in British Columbia. During her seven years as the province’s 30th Lieutenant Governor, she championed Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, promoted equity and diversity, and encouraged participation in democratic and civil society institutions.

Prior to this role, Austin spent 15 years as CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, expanding its reach and positioning the organization as a leading voice on gender equality and social justice. Throughout her career, she has served numerous boards and community organizations, always guided by collaboration and respect. Since leaving office, she continues to support initiatives focused on climate action, democratic renewal, and constructive dialogue across differences, exemplifying principled and compassionate public leadership.

The degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, will be conferred on The Honourable Janet Austin on Thursday, June 11 at the 9:45 a.m. ceremony.

Dr. Austin's Citation
Dr. Austin's honorary degree video (YouTube)

Gordon Ball, Doctor of Science, honoris causa

Gordon Ball has spent over five decades making foundational contributions to experimental subatomic physics. His cutting-edge work in high-precision superallowed Fermi beta decay half-life and branching ratio measurements at TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator centre, has provided some of the most stringent tests of the Standard Model, impacting the direction of the field worldwide.

Ball has also been a leader in building Canada’s scientific infrastructure, developing advanced instrumentation, and mentoring students and researchers who continue to shape the field. His collaborative approach and rigorous methodology have strengthened both national and international physics communities. Published extensively in top-tier journals and recognized with prestigious awards, Ball exemplifies scientific integrity, innovation, and curiosity. His work continues to inspire future generations and strengthen Canada’s role in global scientific discovery.

The degree of Doctor of Science, honoris causa, will be conferred on Gordon Ball on Monday, June 8 at the 2:30 p.m. ceremony.

Dr. Ball's citation
Dr. Ball's honorary degree video (YouTube)

Ryan Beedie, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

A builder in the broadest sense, business leader and philanthropist Ryan Beedie has helped transform Canada’s real estate landscape while demonstrating how business can be a powerful force for social good. As President of Beedie, one of the country’s largest real estate development companies, he has grown the organization into a national leader across the industrial, residential, and investment sectors — all while maintaining a deep and sustained commitment to community.

Guided by his Built for Good social responsibility promise, Beedie is dedicated to strengthening the communities in which he builds through extensive support for hospitals, universities, community organizations, and education through his innovative Luminaries scholarship program. By pairing entrepreneurial ambition with a deep social commitment, Beedie has built more than buildings — he has helped create opportunity, foster belonging, and generate lasting community impact.

The degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, will be conferred on Ryan Beedie on Tuesday, June 9 at the 9:45 a.m. ceremony.

Dr. Beedie's citation
Dr. Beedie's honorary degree video (YouTube)

Gloria Gutman, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

A pioneering scholar and advocate, Gloria Gutman has transformed how aging is understood, studied, and supported in Canada and around the world. Over more than four decades at Simon Fraser University (SFU), she played a foundational role in establishing gerontology as a rigorous, interdisciplinary field, founding both the Gerontology Research Centre and the Department of Gerontology at SFU.

Gutman’s research and advocacy have addressed critical issues including elder abuse, dementia, ageism, gender inequality, and access to inclusive health care, with a lasting influence on public policy and professional practice. Equally impactful has been her ability to build community—mentoring generations of students, convening global conversations, and strengthening connections between research and real-world change. Her legacy is one of compassion, intellectual courage, and enduring commitment to aging with dignity.

The degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, will be conferred on Gloria Gutman on Friday, June 12 at the 9:45 a.m. ceremony.

Dr. Gutman's citation
Dr. Gutman's honorary degree video (YouTube)

David Turpin, Doctor of Science, honoris causa

A distinguished academic, university administrator, and biological scientist, David Turpin has shaped Canadian higher education through scholarship, service, and institutional stewardship. One of Canada’s most experienced university presidents, having led both the University of Alberta and the University of Victoria, he oversaw academic innovation, research excellence, and institutional growth while fostering inclusive and collaborative communities. Turpin’s career reflects a deep commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and institutional stewardship, bridging disciplines and institutions to advance knowledge and research. His dedication, vision, and service have strengthened Canadian higher education and inspired future generations of scholars, researchers, and leaders. Turpin continues to contribute to education and science through his leadership as Chair of the Pacific Marine Science Alliance (PMSA) and in advisory roles with Academics without Borders and Ocean Networks Canada.

The degree of Doctor of Science, honoris causa, will be conferred on David Turpin on Friday, June 12 at the 2:30 p.m. ceremony.

Dr. Turpin's citation
Dr. Turpin's honorary degree video (YouTube)