Wednesday, February 16, 2022

An iconic Canadian musician who has championed charitable and social issues. A change-maker who paved the way for full marriage equality under Canadian law. An award-winning entrepreneur, author and human rights activist who founded the country’s first “urban contemporary” radio station. And renowned innovators in puppetry who have advanced human and animal rights around the world.

These leaders – singer-songwriter Jim Cuddy, retired judge, The Honourable Gloria Epstein (LLB 1977), the founder of FLOW 93.5 Denham Jolly and puppeteers Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler – are just five of the 11 eminent individuals who will receive honorary degrees from the University of Toronto this year and will address graduating students at convocation.

“This year’s honorary degree recipients represent excellence in a wide range of fields, and outstanding service to the university and society,” said U of T President Meric Gertler.

“Their remarkable careers and experiences serve as an inspiration to the Class of 2022 and to all members of the U of T community.”

Justice Epstein is recognized for her transformative impact on law and society as well as her outstanding service to U of T as a mentor and volunteer. Epstein helped pave the way for equal treatment of same-sex couples with her groundbreaking 1999 marriage equality decision while serving on the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.

See the full list of honorary degree recipients for 2022 at U of T News