I presided over my first Memorial University convocation last week and I was delighted it took place in Labrador.
A few days ago, Memorial awarded honorary degrees to two Inuit Elders, G. Jean Crane and Nellie May Winters. Honorary degrees are academic awards given by universities to recognize individuals’ exceptional contributions to society or lifetime achievement in their field.
These two extraordinary women are deserving of this honour. Both have contributed significantly to their communities, their culture and their heritage.
Elder Crane is an accomplished artist known for representing Labrador’s animals and landscapes in a variety of media, as well as a healer who blends her training as a nursing assistant with her traditional knowledge of the healing capacities of the land.
The first convocation at Memorial was in 1950. This year, more than 70 years later, Memorial held a convocation ceremony in Labrador for the first time.
Elder Winters is recognized as a generational artistic talent for her mastery of traditional Inuit art forms. She encourages audiences to consider the importance and beauty of home and Inuit culture, the injustices of relocation and residential schools and our responsibilities toward the land.
This is a historic moment for Memorial University and Newfoundland and Labrador. Convocation is one of the most important events at a university — a day of celebration, pride and ceremony. The first convocation at Memorial was in 1950. This year, more than 70 years later, Memorial held a convocation ceremony in Labrador for the first time.
It is also significant that these two women, in particular, are receiving honorary degrees. It is important to recognize that knowledge comes in many forms. Elders are advocates, educators, knowledge keepers, and often artists, writers and leaders. These two women embody all these characteristics.
I am thrilled that we made history. I grew up in this magnificent part of our province. The Labrador culture and people have contributed so much and I am proud to be part of honouring these two accomplished individuals in this amazing place.
Vianne Timmons,
President, Memorial University of Newfoundland
