Turpel-Lafond Returns Honorary Doctorate

Royal Roads University has accepted the return of the Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree previously awarded to Dr. Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond.

Royal Roads initiated a review process following public concerns raised over the degree awarded to Turpel-Lafond in 2016.

The University contacted Turpel-Lafond during the review process, which also included consultation with Indigenous and academic colleagues as well as engagement of the University’s Advisory Committee on Honours and Awards. Turpel-Lafond responded by voluntarily relinquishing the degree, and the Royal Roads Board of Governors has accordingly cancelled the degree.

The University acknowledges the harm caused to Indigenous people and communities by controversies such as these, and the need to be more proactive in developing policies and processes to support Indigenous students, faculty, and staff.