Celebrating 2024 scholarship and honorary degree recipients
St John's College hosts 156th Annual Convocation on November 3rd
The first Sunday of November is always a special time for the St John’s College community. It’s a time when we bestow honorary degrees in recognition of those who have made significant contribution to both St John’s community and the country. It is also when we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates as well as our scholarship and bursary recipients.
For the 2024 convocation on November 3, SJC is proud to recognize Rt Rev. Helen Kennedy, Dr. Evelyn Forget, and Mr. Jim Ripley. Each of these individuals has had a significant impact on our community, whether as students, on the Council, or in our chapel.
Dr. Evelyn Forget – Honorary Doctor of Canon Law (honoris causa)
The Professor of Economics and Community Health Sciences is grateful for the recognition of the research she has conducted throughout her UM career. As a researcher examining the health and social implications of poverty and inequality, and as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and an Officer of the Order of Canada, Dr. Forget is being recognized for her efforts and petitions to the Federal Government in favor of Guaranteed Basic Income for all Canadians.
In talking with her about what this recognition means, she notes how significant SJC has been in her career.
“It’s always nice for people to recognize the work that you are doing. I’m also very conscious that the work we do as researchers is very collaborative and being recognized for my work and for having worked with many St John’s fellows is special.”
Evelyn would like to thank SJC Chancellor, Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft for his support throughout the years on many projects. More generally, she is grateful for the colleagues and students she’s had the pleasure of working with.
Rt. Rev. Helen Kennedy – Honorary Doctor of Divinity (jure Dignitatis)
From UM student to former Council member, Helen Kennedy, Bishop of Qu’Appelle, has made her impact on the College in many ways.
As a Council member who participated in St John’s residence renewal and is committed to the well-being, support, and theological education of young people in managing ministries at the diocesan level, Helen is honoured to receive this recognition.
“I’m very flattered and grateful for the College. This honour is more than just an award to me; a College is a place of learning, and it’s helped me become the Bishop I am today.”
In her work to become a Bishop, Helen expresses her thanks to former Bishop of Rupert’s Land Don Phillips, former SJC Warden Chris Trott, and her husband for their constant support throughout the years, which helped get her where she is today.
Mr. Jim Ripley – Honorary Fellowship
The highly respected lawyer with TDS is being honoured for his more than 25 years of service to the College on Council, and his many contributions to the College.
The College graduate from 1976 was an exceptional Council member, offering critical guidance on many issues. His contributions allowed Mr. Ripley to make a difference in the College community to what it is today.
In catching up with Jim to hear his excitement for November 3, he thanks a few people for helping him get involved.
“I want to thank Bernie Beare for asking me to be involved. He’s a wonderful person.“
“Thank you to St John’s for this award and recognition, and the people currently involved in the College for designating me as an honorary fellow.”
In addition to these honorary guests who will be recognized on Sunday, November 3, we also recognize St John’s College student members who will receive various scholarships and bursaries supported by our SJC alumni and community.
These scholarships and bursary recipients include UM students from faculties across campus, including science, art, and engineering. As part of the College membership, these scholarships are one of many opportunities available to students on campus.
On behalf of St John’s College, congratulations to all the 2024 recipients!