Mark McMorris to receive an honorary degree June 14, at the U of R’s Spring 2023 Convocation
In recognition of his accomplishments as one of the most successful competitive snowboarders in history, and for his service to the community, the University of Regina will confer an Honorary Doctor of Laws honoris causa (LLD) to snowboarder Mark McMorris.
“Honestly, I never thought I would receive anything like this,” says McMorris. “Being recognized with an honorary degree from the University of Regina is a huge honour.”
The Saskatchewan snowboarder is one of the sport’s most decorated athletes, holding three Olympic medals, 22 X Games medals and four US Open Championship wins.
“Mark McMorris has reached unprecedented heights in the sport of snowboarding, which is even more amazing considering his roots are firmly planted in Saskatchewan, which could be considered topographically challenging for the sport,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jeff Keshen. “For his outstanding athletic accomplishments and service to community, the University of Regina is proud to award McMorris an honorary doctor of laws.”
McMorris strives to inspire others and build his legacy. In 2012 he and his brother Craig, a professional snowboarder and broadcast commentator, launched the McMorris Foundation to help Canadian children in need participate in sports. As a kid, McMorris says, he played every sport under the sun, and he is thankful for his background in other sports because it helped shape his snowboarding career.
“When I started making a living off snowboarding it was a no-brainer to create a foundation and try to give back, and give kids a similar opportunity to what I had growing up.”
The McMorris Foundation has raised over $350,000 and helped to provide over 3,500 Canadian kids with athletic opportunities.
McMorris is also a trailblazer on social media, and he lets his personality shine through, attracting fans and brand partners alike. He was named the most socially engaged Olympian at Sochi 2014 by SportsBusiness Journal and has partnered with many top brands in the snowboarding and lifestyle space over the years.
There will be a media availability for McMorris at 1 p.m. on June 14, prior to the convocation ceremony. Media can confirm details via the contact noted.
Media are also welcome to attend the Spring 2023 Convocation ceremonies which will be held daily at 2 p.m. on June 14, 15, and 16 in the main gymnasium in the Centre for Kinesiology & Health Studies.
A live stream of the ceremonies will be available on the University of Regina’s Facebook page, as will a recording of the proceedings, so students, family and friends unable to attend in person, can watch and celebrate online.
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Set in the heart of the Canadian prairies we are a comprehensive, mid-sized university where the opportunities are as limitless as the horizon. Our campuses are on Treaty 4 and 6 - the territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Michif/Métis nation. It is our responsibility to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities to build a more inclusive future for all. Our three federated colleges, 10 faculties, 25 academic departments, and 18 research centres foster innovative research with practical and theoretical applications. We are committed to cultivating the potential of our 16,700 students and supporting their health and well-being. We take learning beyond the classroom through work and volunteer experiences to develop career-ready graduates.
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