Recognizing excellence: Nominate a worthy individual for one of the University of Calgary’s highest honours

At the heart of every vibrant community are the individuals who go above and beyond: people who foster growth, innovation and connection. The University of Calgary invites you to celebrate these remarkable people by nominating them for the Order of the University of Calgary (OTUC) or an honorary degree. These prestigious awards honour those whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the university and the broader community.

"The Order of the University of Calgary and honorary degrees are meaningful ways to acknowledge these trailblazers whose dedication and achievements inspire us all,” says UCalgary Chancellor Jon Cornish. “Through these awards, we not only honour their remarkable efforts, but also strengthen the bond between the university and our community.” 

As chancellor, Cornish presides over all degree-conferring ceremonies, including the presentation of honorary degrees and the OTUC. Recipients are celebrated at UCalgary’s spring and fall convocation ceremonies, where their achievements are formally recognized in front of the university community.

Nominate a deserving candidate today

Do you know someone who is inspiring and deserving of recognition? Nominate them for an OTUC or an honorary degree to ensure their achievements are celebrated at a future convocation. Candidates are selected in August and September for the fall convocation in November, and in December and January for spring convocation in June. Timely candidate submissions are essential for a successful nomination.  

"Recognizing the incredible individuals who inspire and uplift our community is at the heart of what we do at the University of Calgary," says Cornish. "Through the Order of the University of Calgary and honorary degrees, we celebrate those who 'start something' — whether it's fostering innovation, driving social change or building bridges within our community. By nominating someone deserving, you are helping to highlight the spirit of initiative and excellence that defines our university."

Nominations can be made online at the Order of the University of Calgary website or the UCalgary Honorary Degree website. 

Honour distinguished service with the Order of the University of Calgary 

The OTUC is awarded to individuals who have made exemplary and distinguished service contributions to the University of Calgary. This award is open to anyone who is part of the UCalgary community, including faculty, staff, students, volunteers and anyone whose impactful work has positively influenced the university. 

Whether through promoting the university, nurturing relationships within the community, fostering collaboration or driving excellence, recipients of the OTUC embody the values and spirit of the University of Calgary.

Celebrate achievements with honorary degrees

Honorary degrees recognize individuals whose extraordinary achievements and service extend beyond the university. These degrees are the highest honour bestowed by the UCalgary, and recipients are individuals who have achieved notable, lasting impacts through their work. 

They come from diverse backgrounds — artists, musicians, athletes and political scientists, among others — and their contributions reflect the demographic diversity and values of the university. These distinguished individuals address the graduating class at convocation ceremonies, imparting their wisdom and inspiring the next generation of leaders.