Rich life adds up to honourary law degree

On June 3, Mary Simon received an honorary Doctor of Laws at Trent University’s 2005 Convocation Ceremonies in Peterborough, Ont.

During the 1990s, Simon served as chancellor of Trent University – one of her many achievements, which Shelagh Grant, a professor at Trent and author of Arctic Justice, mentioned in her dedication preceding the granting of the honorary degree.

Grant praised Simon’s many accomplishments and her ability to “translate purpose into action.”

“Leadership is an attribute sought by so many, yet attained by far too few,” Grant said. “The test of a true leader lies not in title or power, but in the ability to place the needs of others ahead of one’s own – and to convince others to do the same.”

During her long career, Simon, who is originally from Kangiqsualujjuaq, has served as president of Makivik Corporation and the Inuit Circumpolar Conference. Simon was responsible for the preparation and adoption of Canada’s “Comprehensive Arctic Policy” that provides a blueprint for the future management and development of an Arctic “compatible with Inuit values, priorities, and aspirations.” Simon spearheaded the creation of the Arctic Council and was Canada’s first Arctic ambassador and also ambassador to Denmark.

“Throughout her life, Mary May Simon selflessly assumed multiple leadership roles dedicated to advancing Inuit rights, northern health and education, sustainable development, and protection of the Arctic environment – not only in Canada, but throughout the Circumpolar world,” Grant said

Grant noted Simon is a woman who:

can bring opposing sides together in support of a common cause;
looks ahead to the challenges facing future generations of Inuit;
“dared to break through impregnable political barriers to accomplish the impossible, as she did in the negotiations leading to the creation of the Arctic Council;”
“today is still looking to the future,” as chair of the Arctic Children and Youth Foundation, governor of University of the Arctic, and a board member of the International Institute for Sustainable Development.