The Thursday morning Loyalist College Convocation ceremony honoured 422 graduates from the Schools of Health and Human Studies. The guest speaker was Judith Maxwell who is a Senior Fellow and Founding President of Canadian Policy Research Networks, known for her extensive experience as a participant in both public and private sector think tanks. She served as the Chair of the Economic Council of Canada from 1985 to 1992 and has worked as a consultant as Director of Policy Studies at the C.D. Howe Institute. She has established a national reputation as a leading thinker on Canada’s social and economic policy choices and has been one of the pioneers in deliberative dialogues that give citizens a voice in public policy discussion. Mrs. Maxwell is a member of the Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Ottawa. She is a Member of the Order of Canada.
In her address, Mrs. Maxwell encouraged the graduates to use their diploma, degree or certificate as the jumping off point to become agents for change in a country that needs innovators from all walks of life. “You probably don’t know today what your greatest talents will turn out to be. I’m sure you will discover your real strengths in coming years. And when you do, embrace the opportunities to help your community and your country get their act together. The economy and society will keep changing, and you can be on the leading edge, helping others to adapt.”
Mrs. Maxwell was presented with an honorary diploma by Mrs. Margaret Werkhoven, Chair of the Loyalist College Board of Governors, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to private and public policy research on social and economic issues, and her distinguished career as a leading thinker on Canada’s social and economic policy choices.
An honorary diploma was also presented to June Surgey in recognition of her long and distinguished service to Loyalist College. She has played a key role in the development of the Loyalist College Foundation as Chair of the Board of Directors. Her deep sense of commitment, active participation, and outstanding leadership have set an outstanding example for everyone.
Media Contact: Marilyn Warren, Communications, Loyalist College, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2332; e-mail: mwarren@loyalistc.on.ca