Published May 02, 2025 • Last updated 12 hours ago • 2 minute readFrom left, Deantha Edmunds, Elie Haddad, Viola Robinson, and Catharine Farrow are receiving honorary degrees from Acadia University this month. When graduates of Acadia University cross the stage on May 15 and 16 in Wolfville, four honorary degrees will be given to people who have distinguished themselves in the arts, sciences, and public service.Dr. Elie Haddad (Doctor of Divinity), Viola Robinson (Doctor of Civil Laws), Dr. Catharine Farrow (Doctor of Science) and Deantha Edmunds (Doctor of Music) will be recognized by Acadia for their contributions.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle content“The 2025 honorary degree recipients represent the relentless optimism it takes to face injustices and know that they can make a difference,” Jeff Hennessy, Acadia’s president and vice-chancellor, said in a news release.“We are honoured to welcome them into the Acadia family alongside the future leaders from our class of 2025.”Haddad, the president of the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS) in Beirut, Lebanon, has significantly influenced theological education and church leadership in the Middle East.“Since returning to Lebanon in 2005 after 15 years in Canada, he has guided the seminary through curriculum redevelopment with reconciliation and contemporary issues at its heart,” a news release from Acadia reads.Robinson, a member of Wasoqopa’q First Nation, is a leader in Indigenous rights in Canada.Her career includes serving as president of the Native Council of Canada and as one of seven commissioners for the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. She has earned numerous honours, including the Order of Nova Scotia and Officer of the Order of Canada.Article contentFarrow is a professional geoscientist (APGO) and mining industry leader with more than 30 years’ experience.“Recognized as one of the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining and honoured with Acadia University’s Distinguished Alumni Award, Dr. Farrow’s accomplishments include founding and leadership roles at companies and universities across Canada,” the news release notes.Edmunds, Canada’s first Inuk professional classical singer, seeks to empower Indigenous people and share their stories. Her work has earned her a JUNO Award and recognition as a Member of the Order of Canada. She has three solo albums.“Acadia’s Class of 2025 has consistently shown a drive to make the world a better place. As we send them out into the world after their time at Acadia, I’m confident they will do so,” Hennessy said.“At convocation, they will be joined by like-minded leaders who have demonstrated what happens when that drive to create a better world is kept alive throughout a lifetime.”To watch a livestream of the baccalaureate and convocation ceremonies, visit Acadia’s Convocation website.Article content
Acadia University names four honorary degree recipients in 2025
