Honorary Doctorate,
Western University

Western University in London, Ontario is rated in the top 1% of universities in the world (Center for World University Rankings 2024). It has over 44,000 students from 128 countries and 362,000 alumni across 160 countries worldwide (first class graduated in 1881).

“The awarding of an honorary degree is an important symbol in the life of the University. An honorary degree recognizes exceptionally meritorious accomplishments, activity, and positive impact both in the academic arena and in broader areas of benefit to society, that reflect the values esteemed by a great university. Honorary degrees are conferred on those whose achievements are of such excellence that they inspire exemplary leadership to the graduates of the University.

In choosing recipients for this honour, the University is also guided by the principle that in honouring individuals for their contributions the University is also honouring itself by its association with people of such special merit.”

Stacey Allaster, BA’85, EMBA’00, was honoured at convocation for the Faculty of Health Sciences and Brescia University College on June 16 2014. Allaster, who is the Chairman and CEO of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), spoke to graduates about her journey to achieve what she calls her “dream job” as well as on the challenges for women in leadership.

“Our country is in trouble. For years, there has been a dearth of women in leadership positions across Canada. In the past few years, progress has been made, but it has stalled. Given we have more than enough qualified women to fill half these positions, the numbers do not make sense,” Allaster said.

“This must be solved by you – the men and women sitting in Alumni Hall working together. We can teach ourselves, we can teach our kids that it is acceptable for girls to be strong and confident, because they are equal.”