Earlier this month, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) celebrated the outstanding accomplishments and contributions of award-winning writer and Indigenous rights advocate Doug Cuthand, as well as business and community leader Greg Smith. 

“We are delighted to have this opportunity to express our gratitude and to bestow on them the University of Saskatchewan’s highest honour during our Fall Convocation celebrations at Merlis Belsher Place,” said USask President and Vice-Chancellor Peter Stoicheff.   

Here is a closer look at the speeches given by USask’s most recent honorary degree recipients:

(Honorary Doctor of Laws)

A journalist, producer, and community leader, Doug Cuthand has been building relationships among diverse cultures in Canada and placing First Nations issues on the public agenda for more than 50 years. Known for his award-winning weekly column in local post-media newspapers, Cuthand was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws at Fall Convocation ceremonies, where he shared some valuable advice with those graduating.  

“I encourage all of you to get out of your comfort zone, meet other people. Like my grandfather said, you can learn a lot from other tribes,” said Cuthand. “Get out there and meet the real people in the communities where you go.” 

During his speech, Cuthand stressed the importance of family, a good education, and that the lesson for today’s graduates is one that is a life-long journey. 

“My advice is to work hard, play hard, don't take life or yourself too seriously, and enjoy the trip. Stay healthy and never stop learning.” 

Click here to read the transcript from Doug Cuthand's acceptance speech.

(Honorary Doctor of Laws)

From volunteer service to business excellence to exceptional educational leadership, Greg Smith has long been engaged in his home community of Swift Current and with USask. Currently a member of the Dean’s Circle in the Edwards School of Business, where he graduated from in 1979, Smith has given back to USask in many ways, including serving on the university’s Board of Governors for more than a decade. 

Having been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws at Fall Convocation ceremonies, Smith shared a deep appreciation for the role USask plays in shaping the province of Saskatchewan as well as his own path through life. 

“I assumed when I left the University of Saskatchewan that my time in post-secondary education was complete. In reality, what I believed to be the end was simply the beginning,” said Smith. 

During his acceptance speech, Smith had some inspiring words for the graduates of the Class of 2024. 

“Opportunity is not reserved for a select few. Each of you will encounter pivotal moments in your life, some expected, others completely unexpected, where you’ll be faced with an opportunity and a decision. These moments will shape the course of your life.” 

Click here to read the transcript from Greg Smith's acceptance speech.

Click here to learn more about the honorary degree recipients who were celebrated at the 2024 USask Fall Convocation ceremonies. 

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