Canadian Olympic chief Tricia Smith is Dr now

Conferring Honoria Causa degrees upon eminent people in recognition of their exceptional work has been a tradition  with most of the top universities and academia. In continuation of this programme, yesterday University of Western Ontario chose the President of the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) and Olympian Tricia Smith  for honorary Doctor of Laws degree.  At the Spring 2023 Convocation of the University, the honorary degree was conferred upon her in recognition of her immense volunteer contributions to sport and society. The four-time Olympian, Olympic silver medallist, seven-time World Championship medallist and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, also addressed graduates as part of the Convocation Ceremony.

David Shoemaker, CEO and Secretary General of the Canadian Olympic Committee, lauded the decision of the University of Western Ontario, saying  “Tricia is a leader both in our country and around the globe and a respected and thoughtful voice in international sport. She is known for her integrity and commitment to values-based sport that places athletes at the centre of the system and for her boundless contributions to sport in Canada and internationally.

“As a four-time Olympian, IOC Member, Vice-President of World Rowing, member of the Panam Sports Executive Committee, and representative of the Americas on the ANOC Executive Council, her impact on the world of sport is felt every day. On behalf of the COC and the Olympic movement in Canada, congratulations Tricia and thank you for all your hard work, ”  David Shoemaker said.