The University of Saskatchewan is recognizing four Canadians next month for their accomplishments and philanthropy. During USask Spring Convocation ceremonies the university will award an Honorary Doctor of Letters to Jim Cuddy, the Juno Award winning member of the Canadian band Blue Rodeo. Cuddy is described as an active environmentalist and philanthropist, dedicated to community service. Dr. Vera Pezer will receive the Honorary Doctor of Laws. Pezer began a 35-year career in student counselling at USask in 1966, while also completing her third USask degree (PhD in sports psychology) in 1977. Pezer worked as a counsellor, part-time instructor, assistant professor, and interim assistant dean in the College of Arts and Science in 1978 and 1981 and was appointed associate vice-president of student affairs and services in 1991 until retirement in 2001. Pezer went on to serve as USask’s 13th chancellor from 2007 to 2013.

Olivia and Greg Yuel will also be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws. Both are graduates of the University of Saskatchewan and have donated millions of dollars to charities and community projects, supporting education, healthcare, athletics, the arts and social programs. Among their major contributions are support for the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, the Yuel Family Gallery at the Remai Modern, Rick Hansen Foundation, Wanuskewin Artist in Residence program, the YWCA, Friendship Inn, Salvation Army, Mosaic Stadium, Gordie Howe Sports Complex, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, and USask’s Edwards School of Business, College of Medicine, and the Huskies program.