Since 1969 the University of St. Michael’s College has awarded honorary degrees as its highest honour, using its statutory authority as an independent university to bestow doctorates on individuals whose achievements embody or advance St. Michael’s mission, vision, and values as a Catholic institution of higher learning. This page explains and distinguishes these from other honours the University of St. Michael’s College continues to offer, including honorary fellowships, and places on the Legacy Wall in Brennan Hall.
- Honorary Degrees
Honorary Degrees are awarded to individuals who have achieved world-class excellence and exceptionality over their careers in one or more areas consonant with the Mission, Vision, and Values of USMC. Their esteem should be such that, by virtue of accepting an honorary degree, their presence at Convocation will bring honour and distinction to the University.Formal recommendations of honorary degree candidates are made by the USMC Senate’s Committee on Honorary Degrees and approved by the Senate. Honorary degrees are conferred at the University of St. Michael’s College Convocation in the fall.
Previous Honorary Degree Recipients
Recent Recipients
William John Bennett (D.Univ. 2025)
Alumnus W. John Bennett received an honorary Doctor of the University of St. Michael’s College degree at the inaugural Regis St. Michael’s Faculty of Theology convocation. A successful merchant banker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Bennett has contributed decades of leadership and service to the university, including roles in governance, fundraising, and the federation with Regis College. He has also supported academic initiatives such as the W.J. Bennett Family Chair. Recognized for his dedication and generosity, Bennett continues a family legacy of involvement with St. Michael’s. The honour reflects his significant impact on the institution and broader educational community.Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk (D.D. 2025)
The University of St. Michael’s College awarded Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in recognition of his leadership, commitment to theological education, and courageous ministry during the war in Ukraine. As head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Shevchuk has provided spiritual guidance, advocated for peace, and supported those affected by conflict. The university highlighted his dedication to human dignity, interreligious dialogue, and service to society. The degree was conferred in Toronto during a church synod. His life story reflects perseverance, having practiced faith secretly under Soviet persecution and later emerging as a global religious leader.Sr. Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ (D.D. 2024)
The University of St. Michael’s College named Sr. Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ, as a 2024 honorary degree recipient, recognizing her influential leadership in the Catholic Church and global theological dialogue. Appointed by Pope Francis in 2021 as undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, she became one of the highest-ranking women in the Vatican. Her work focuses on youth engagement and promoting synodality, encouraging inclusive participation in Church decision-making. She received a Doctor of Divinity at convocation. The honour reflects her commitment to faith, service, and reform, aligning with the university’s mission to advance leadership and the common good.Francis Anthony Comper (D.Univ. 2024)
Francis Anthony “Tony” Comper, a distinguished alumnus of the University of St. Michael’s College, was recognized with an honorary degree for his outstanding leadership, philanthropy, and service. A former CEO of BMO Financial Group, Comper has generously contributed his expertise and time to numerous organizations, including serving as vice-chair of St. Michael’s Hospital. He has also provided trusted counsel to university president David Sylvester. Reflecting his passion for medieval studies, Comper established the Comper Professorship in 2020, now held by Alison More, strengthening the college’s academic mission.Victor Dodig (D. Univ. 2024)
Victor Dodig, an alumnus of the University of St. Michael’s College, was honoured with an honorary degree in recognition of his leadership and commitment to community impact. As CEO of CIBC, Dodig is a prominent advocate for newcomers to Canada, championing inclusion and opportunity. During his time at St. Michael’s, he was an active student leader, athlete, and social convener—experiences that shaped his dedication to student life. Together with his wife Maureen, he has supported scholarships, experiential learning, and the Dodig Family Student Commons, helping ensure students can thrive academically, socially, spiritually, and financially.Archbishop Donald Bolen (D.D. 2023)
Archbishop Donald Bolen, a leading figure in the Canadian Catholic Church, was honoured by the University of St. Michael’s College for his commitment to ecumenism, interfaith dialogue, and reconciliation. As Archbishop of Regina, he has played a key role in advancing relationships between Christian denominations and fostering understanding with other faith traditions. He has also been a strong advocate for Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, promoting healing and justice within the Church and broader society. His leadership reflects a deep dedication to unity, dialogue, and social responsibility.Ann Hutchison (D.S. Litt. 2023)
Professor Ann Hutchison is recognized for her distinguished career in medieval studies and her longstanding contributions to the Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies. A respected scholar and educator, she has significantly advanced the study of medieval intellectual and cultural history through her teaching and research. Hutchison is also celebrated for her mentorship of generations of students, helping to shape future scholars in the field. Her work reflects a deep commitment to academic excellence and the preservation of medieval scholarship, aligning closely with the mission of the University of St. Michael’s College.James Carley (D.S. Litt. 2023)
Professor James Carley, a renowned expert in medieval manuscripts and book history, was honoured for his exceptional scholarly contributions and service to the Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies. His research has deepened understanding of medieval texts, libraries, and the transmission of knowledge across centuries. In addition to his academic achievements, Carley is widely respected for his dedication to teaching and mentorship. Together with his spouse, Ann Hutchison, he represents a remarkable partnership in scholarship. Their joint recognition highlights their lasting impact on medieval studies and academic life at the University of St. Michael’s College.
- Honorary Fellowships
Honorary Fellowships are awarded to individuals whose ongoing work and success aligns with the Mission, Vision, and/or values of USMC. An honorary fellowship draws the candidate into the St. Michael’s community for mutual enrichment, inspiration, and encouragement.
Formal recommendations of Honorary Fellows are made by the University Honours Nominations Committee and confirmed by the President. Honorary Fellowships are conferred by the Chancellor, often at the Baccalaureate Mass in the spring. Honorary Fellows are distinct from Fellows of the College, whose selection, opportunities and obligations are captured in a separate Charter.
Honorary Fellows of the University of St. Michael’s College
Recent Honorary Fellows
Mary Jo Leddy (honorary fellow, 2015)
Mary Jo Leddy (B.A.; B.Ed.; M.A.; Ph.D.) is a well-known author, activist, refugee advocate and Director of Romero House for Refugees in Toronto. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Regis College, University of Toronto, an international lecturer and frequent radio and TV commentator, and an active member of the
Ontario Sanctuary Coalition and PEN Canada. Leddy was the founding editor of Catholic New Times, an independent national Catholic newspaper.
Donald F. Finlay, CSB (honorary fellow, 2015)
Fr. Finlay is a retired Basilian priest. In his active years, he served as Librarian at USMC as well as Registrar, Mentor and Member of the College Community. He also served PIMS as Librarian. Now retired at Anglin House (95 St. Joseph Street), he is fondly remembered by many in the College for his dedication to the Mission of the College and for supporting the students of the College.
- Legacy Wall
Alumni, faculty, staff, or community members who have contributed to the building of the USMC community or brought the values of USMC to their work in the greater community, whether local or global. Nominees for the Legacy Wall in Brennan Hall may be living or deceased. Ceremonies for installations on Legacy Wall can occur at any appropriate time.Formal recommendations to be placed on the Legacy Wall are made by the University Honours Nominations Committee and confirmed by the President. Honorary Fellowships are often conferred by the Chancellor at the Baccalaureate Mass.
Nominations and Other Honours
Nominations for all University Honours are received by the University Honours Nomination committee via the University Honours Nomination Form and then passed to the appropriate deliberative body for adjudication.
The University Honours Nominations Committee’s authority is delegated it by the President of the University of St. Michael’s College, to whom it is accountable. The Committee is chaired by the Director of the President’s Office. The three principal duties of the Committee are:
1) to invite nominations from the USMC community;
2) to maintain a nominee pool; and
3) to recommend to the President individuals from the nominee pool principally for Honorary Doctorates, Honorary Fellowships, and Legacy Wall additions, and perhaps other honours such as the University of Toronto’s Arbor Award or the Order of Canada. (Nominees’ files are then passed to the respective deliberative body for each honour.)
Due to their access to the full pool of nominees, the University Honours Nomination Committee may recommend nominees for honours other than those indicated by their nominators.
To nominate an individual for a University Honour, please click here.
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