International honours for alumni

Alumnus Kenneth Meadwell // Photo: L. Wong

Kenneth Meadwell [BA(Hons.)/78; PhD/86]  was named Knight in the Order of Academic Palms of the Republic of France (Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques de la République française) by decree of the Prime Minister of France. The Order of Academic Palms is an order of chivalry originally created by Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France, in 1808 in order to honour eminent members of the University. It is the oldest civic decoration in France, and the second oldest award, next to the Legion of Honour. He was named Knight in recognition of his exceptional and longstanding contribution to the promotion of French language, literature and culture. Dr. Meadwell retired from the University of Winnipeg last year; he was a Professor of French Studies.

Alumnus Derek Gray accepting his award

Derek Gray (MSc/65; PhD/68), his wife Adeline Bilenky (MSW/67) were in Stockholm, Sweden in September 2013 in order for Gray to receive the prestigious Marcus Wallenberg Prize for research relevant to the forestry industry. He received the honour from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden.  Dr. Gray is currently Professor Emeritus in the department of chemistry at McGill University.