Watch CEO Carola Cunningham accept an honourary doctorate degree from MacEwan University on November 15, 2021.
From poetry to the oilsands: MacEwan University bestows honorary degrees
Carola Cunningham, Di Brandt, and Dave Tuccaro are the recipients this round
CBC News · Posted: Nov 15, 2021
A poet, a First Nations business owner and the CEO of an Indigenous-focused non-profit are among the latest to be honoured by MacEwan University, which bestowed three honorary doctorates this week.
Carola Cunningham, Di Brandt, and Dave Tuccaro are the recipients this round.
Cunningham is the CEO of Niginan Housing Ventures, a non-profit charity focused on Indigenous housing in Edmonton. She received her degree Monday.
Brandt is a poet, writer and professor who has worked mainly in Manitoba and has achieved widespread acclaim for her poetry and literature.
Tuccaro is from Mikisew Cree First Nation and founded the Northeastern Aboriginal Business Association. He operates six successful businesses, the core of which are based in the oilsands.
They both receive their degrees Tuesday.
'Love and kindness'
Cunningham, who is Metis from St. Albert, was emotional in her acceptance of the honorary degree on Monday.
"I just feel so humbled and really lifted up by my colleagues and peers and people around me in the city of Edmonton that recognize all the hard work that I've done," she said in an interview.
For decades, she has worked to improve the lives of some of the city's most vulnerable.
She was instrumental in the creation of Ambrose Place, a 42-unit permanent supportive housing program guided by an Indigenous worldview.
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