February 22, 2012

One of Medicine Hat College’s respected, retired instructors, Roy Wilson, has been announced as the 2012 honorary applied baccalaureate degree recipient.

Wilson will formally receive the honour as part of convocation ceremonies on June 1. The 30-year veteran instructor and author will be the eighth recipient of the honour, following in the footsteps of Dr. Richard and Deborah Northcott, Bob Porter, John Moldon, Ken Sauer, Jim Horsman, Randy Eresman, and Terry Brekko. 

From 1973 until 2003, Wilson served the college as an instructor of Canadian history and teacher education, program coordinator, department chair, transfer program liaison, and visiting professor. He taught over 5000 students in his tenure, guiding many of them into careers as educators.

“He touched many lives during his time at the college, and it has not gone unnoticed” said Ralph Weeks, president of MHC. “After his retirement he has continued on in his quest to serve, and we are happy to recognize him for his dedication to education.”

Wilson also serves as a public school trustee for Medicine Hat School District No. 76, a position he has held since 1980. In addition, he is serving his second term as senator in the University of Alberta Senate.

“He has worked tirelessly to promote education in our city, region and province,” Weeks added. “He exemplifies the qualities we look for in an honorary degree recipient.”

Wilson said he is deeply moved to be recognized with the award.

“I appreciate that the college has recognized my commitment to the community,” he said. “It has been my steadfast belief that one must give back to those whose lives overlap our own.”

The June 1 convocation is open to the public and will be celebrated in two separate ceremonies. In addition, convocation will be streamed live online. More information on the honorary degree and ceremony can be found online at here.