Wednesday, June 12, 2024 | 10 a.m.
Faculties & programs
- Law
- Social Sciences
- Geography
- Graduate Studies
- Continuing Studies
- Diploma in Business Administration (Last names Aa-Ano)
- Diploma in Public Relations
- Certificate in Ecological Restoration
- Certificate in Population Health Data Analysis
- Certificate in Adult & Continuing Education
- Certificate in Business Administration
- Certificate in Environmental & Occupational Health
- Certificate in General Studies
- Certificate in Restoration of Natural Systems
Order of proceedings
- Pre-ceremony music
- Performer: McKenna Sheeley-Jennings, School of Music
- Processional
- Drummers: Rob Morris and William Sam, Tsartlip First Nation
- Welcome
- Councillor Alicia Thomas and Councillor Anastasia Thomas, Esquimalt First Nation
- Opening remarks
- Chancellor Marion Buller
- Conferring of Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD)
- Eloise Spitzer
- Orator
- Dr. Rebecca Johnson, Faculty of Law
- Conferring of degrees
- Performer: Matthew Stott, School of Music
- Student awards
- Congratulations from the Alumni Association
- Paul Morgan, BA ‘04
- Closing remarks
- Chancellor Marion Buller
- O Canada
- Performer: Bella Kershaw, School of Music
Honorary degree recipient
Eloise Spitzer, Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD)
Eloise Spitzer's remarkable ability to connect with people has left an enduring impact through her roles as a mentor, educator and public servant, encouraging deep community engagement and social justice. These qualities are at the heart of her transformative work.
Breaking barriers throughout her career, Spitzer has made history as the first woman to hold the position of Cabinet Secretary, Deputy Minister in the Premier's office in both Yukon and BC, providing advice to Executive Councils and managing communications during constitutional change. She successfully litigated Canada's first charter case, was a founding mother of LEAF and the first student at Maliiganik Tukisiiniakvik (Legal Aid) in Nunavut.
Believing in the transformative power of education, Spitzer contributed significantly to UVic's Akitsitaq Law Program in Nunavut. As co-op coordinator she notably increased Indigenous law student participation.
Spitzer has served in diverse ways including Legal Aid, private practice, public interest litigation, legal education, public service, development corporations and charitable boards. No matter where she serves, she has shown, it is possible to never lose sight of the needs and voices of those most vulnerable in society. In everything she does, she embodies her belief in creating a more equitable and compassionate society.