The Honourable Janet Austin receives honorary doctorate from RRU
The Honourable Janet Austin, the 30th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, will receive an Honorary Doctorate from Royal Roads University at the Spring 2025 Convocation ceremonies in June.
The university is recognizing Austin for her remarkable leadership and service to the people of BC. During her tenure as Lieutenant Governor, Austin championed reconciliation, promoted diversity and inclusion, and strengthened democratic engagement through public programs and partnerships. She also supported the arts, community organizations, and human rights initiatives, helping guide the province through periods of significant challenge.
“Janet Austin is a beacon of hope and inspiration for all British Columbians,” says Philip Steenkamp, president and vice-chancellor of Royal Roads University. “We were fortunate to have seven years of her courageous leadership in the role of Lieutenant Governor, and I know she will continue to be a strong advocate for the health and well-being of our communities.”
“Her achievements in championing reconciliation, democracy, and social justice have left an indelible mark on our province,” he says. “We celebrate her contributions and are proud to recognize her with this distinguished honour.”
As Lieutenant Governor, Austin’s achievements are considerable. She was proud to grant royal assent for the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and used her office to raise the profile of Indigenous art, culture and language revitalization.
During her term, Austin also worked actively to uphold Canadian democracy and encourage participation in civil society. She led the Lieutenant Governor’s British Columbia Journalism Fellowship, which supports local journalists to pursue in-depth reporting on an issue of major concern. She also organized opportunities for people to come together in conversations about democracy, gender and racial inequality, and in celebration of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
The Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, is the university’s highest honour awarded to people of merit who reflect Royal Roads University's vision and values and have achieved a significant record of success and community service.