BU Morning Convocation to Confer Theoren “Theo” Fleury and Hon. Philip S. Lee with Honorary Doctorates

Brandon, MB – Brandon University (BU) will honour two individuals who have made significant contributions to society in their respective roles at this year’s morning Convocation ceremony to be held at 10:00 a.m. on May 29th at BU’s Healthy Living Centre.

Theoren “Theo” Fleury is an author, motivational speaker and former professional ice hockey player. Of Métis heritage, Mr. Fleury was born in Oxbow, Sask. and grew up in Russell, Man. He was drafted to the Calgary Flames in 1987, and throughout his NHL career played for the Colorado Avalanche, New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks, as well as with several European-based teams. In 2009, Mr. Fleury co-wrote and released his best-selling autobiography, Playing with Fire, in which he revealed that he had been the victim of sexual abuse during his youth. Since then, he has been a vocal advocate for victims of sexual abuse, and has encouraged countless other victims to seek help for the purpose of healing and overcoming trauma. In 2014, he released his second book, Conversations with a Rattlesnake, which deeply explores this theme of recovery from trauma and abuse. Mr. Fleury has received an honorary doctorate in Science from the University of Guelph-Humber, and is a recipient of the 2013 Humanitarian Award from the Canadian Psychological Association, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, Aboriginal Indspire Award and is an Honourary Chief. Brandon University will recognize Theo Fleury for his contributions combating child sexual abuse, and for his outstanding efforts to promote healing and recovery.

The Honourable Philip S. Lee was appointed as Manitoba’s first Chinese-Canadian Lieutenant Governor in 2009, and has been recognized for his tireless work on causes important to Manitoba’s Chinese-Canadian community. Since arriving in Manitoba in 1962 from Hong Kong, Mr. Lee has been active in the Chinese-Canadian community, and has lent his support to countless cultural organizations and initiatives including the City of Brandon’s Lieutenant Governor’s Winter Festival. Mr. Lee has been instrumental in supporting Manitoba’s post-secondary institutions, and has shown a demonstrated commitment to Brandon University. He has received numerous awards in recognition of his commitment to serving his community, and was inducted into the Order of Canada in 1999 and became the Chancellor and a member of the Order of Manitoba on taking office as Lieutenant Governor in 2009. Mr. Lee has also received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Manitoba in 2011. The Honourable Philip S. Lee will be honoured for his numerous contributions to Manitoba society and for his public service.

“Brandon University is proud to recognize the contributions of The Honourable Philip S. Lee and Theoren Fleury to Canada and Manitoba,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, BU President and Vice-Chancellor. “Both individuals have had outstanding accomplishments and reflect the wonderful mosaic woven through the diversity and creativity of Canadians. They inspire our students, faculty, and staff and the communities we serve – indeed – they inspire us all to strive to be at the top of our game and to reach for the highest position possible.”

The conferring of an honorary Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) at Brandon University bestows honour upon a deserving candidate who has made an outstanding contribution in one or more designated categories including the University, society, professional life, public service and the advancement of knowledge. Nominations are received from both the Brandon University and greater Westman communities.

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, and educates students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

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