Scott Oake will receive an Honorary Doctorate at The University of Winnipeg’s 127th Convocation on Friday, October 17.
Oake is a celebrated Canadian sports journalist whose career spans five decades. A fixture on Hockey Night in Canada, he has covered 14 Olympic Games and earned a Gemini Award for excellence in broadcasting. He is a Member of the Order of Canada, the Order of Manitoba, and the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame.
While his contributions to Canadian sport are widely recognized, Oake’s most profound impact lies in his advocacy for addiction recovery. The rise in addiction has gripped Canada over the last decade, devastating far too many, including Oake.
Following the tragic loss of his son Bruce to addiction, Oake and his late wife Anne channeled their grief into action, founding the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre. This non-profit facility provides long-term treatment to individuals seeking recovery. His unwavering will addresses the needs of persons struggling with addiction who lack access to treatment—offering not just care, but dignity and hope.
Oake’s vision and determination helped overcome countless obstacles—from acquiring land and engaging the community to raising funds and reducing stigma. His work helped reframe addiction as a treatable disease, opening the door for compassionate, accessible recovery services in Winnipeg.
Following Anne’s passing, Oake once again turned personal loss into purpose. Plans are now under way for the Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre, which will serve women and their children—furthering a legacy of love and healing.
Oake’s dedication is personal, tireless, and deeply rooted in love for his community.
The University of Winnipeg is proud to bestow an Honorary Doctor of Laws on Scott Oake for his broadcasting, advocacy, and unwavering compassion that has changed lives.
