WINNIPEG, MB – The Honorable Reverend Bill Blaikie, MP, PC is an outspoken social justice advocate, a proud graduate of The University of Winnipeg in Philosophy and Religious Studies (BA ’73) and the longest-serving present Member of Parliament. The university will honor Blaikie for his achievements as an exceptional parliamentarian and outstanding public voice on the environment, globalization and human rights with an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity at a special convocation ceremony, Sept. 14, 2007.
Blaikie (Elmwood-Transcona) is known as the “dean” of the House of Commons, with a career spanning 28 years, culminating with his current position as Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons. As the first New Democrat to hold this auspicious position, his election was a sign of the universally high regard in which he is held by all parties.
Blaikie announced last winter that he will not seek re-election in the next federal election and has been appointed Adjunct Professor in Theology and Politics at The University of Winnipeg once his parliamentary obligations are completed.
“Bill Blaikie is one of the most respected parliamentarians in Canada,” said Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, President & Vice Chancellor of The University of Winnipeg. “We are proud to have him as one of our alumni and soon-to-be faculty member, working towards the further development of the University’s Centre for Theology and Progressive Public Policy.”
After eight prime ministers and nine elections, Blaikie has participated in some of Parliament’s most important decisions concerning the Canada Health Act, Reform of the House of Commons and the signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
“While serving so completely in Parliament, Bill has also honoured the responsibilities of his ordination in faithful service to the United Church of Canada both locally and nationally,” said James Christie, Dean of Theology at The University of Winnipeg. “Bill’s connection to The University of Winnipeg is firmly rooted within the theological and political traditions of United College. Bill represents the best of the traditions of the United Church of Canada: a committed clergyman, a great advocate of social justice and a tireless defender of the abiding role of theology in public discourse.”
Bill Blaikie is one of nine people who will receive University of Winnipeg honorary degrees at a special convocation ceremony on Sept. 14, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. in Convocation Hall. He is the eighth individual to be named an honorary doctorate degree recipient. The others are David Bergen, Raymond McFeetors, Honourable Ruth Krindle, Harvey Thorleifson, Dianne Leggatt, John Roberts and Margaret Bloodworth. The University will announce the remaining recipient in the days leading up to its 40th Anniversary Homecoming Event, slated for Sept. 13-16. To register for Homecoming, please visit http://40th.uwinnipeg.ca
– 30 –
Located in the heart of downtown, The University of Winnipeg is a compact, diverse, multi-cultural academic community committed to access and excellence. Home to more than 9,200 full- and part-time students, UWinnipeg has been ranked by our graduates in the Top-10 of all Canadian universities when asked about their “Entire Educational Experience” (MacLean’s Graduate Survey, June 2006). The Globe & Mail Report Card 2006 gives the University of Winnipeg an overall “A” grade in the areas of quality of education, teaching quality, class sizes, faculty-student interaction and the availability of faculty outside of classroom hours. Find out why. Visit www.uwinnipeg.ca.
The University of Winnipeg would like to welcome its newest affinity partner – The Clearsight Investment Program from Wellington West. The Clearsight Investment Program is a comprehensive investment and wealth management solution combining top advisors with best-in-class investment products for one clear price. Contact us today to learn more about what this program has to offer UWinnipeg alumni. Visit www.clearsight.ca/uwinnipeg/offer to receive a complimentary copy of the 2007 Canadian Investment Guide when you sign up for our free investment e-newsletter, The ViewPoint. (Please quote promotional code: 22PSE0907CIG)
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Ilana Simon, Communications Officer, University of Winnipeg
P: 204.786.9930, C: 204.782.3279, E: i.simon@uwinnipeg.ca
