This Friday, Saint Paul University will proudly present the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, with the doctorate honoris causa.
The doctorate honoris causa — commonly known as an honorary doctorate — is the highest honour a university can bestow. It is granted to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the University, to their profession or to society.
Madame Dumont is being recognised for her longstanding career and leadership within the education sector, championing the vitality of la Francophonie in Ontario, and dedication to building connections between communities.
“Throughout her career and in her actions, the Honourable Edith Dumont has embodied the values of our institution – empowerment through education, celebrating diversity, and commitment to community service,” shared Louis Patrick Leroux, Rector of Saint Paul University. “Through her work in education and her commitment to la Francophonie, she is an inspirational example for our students and we are delighted to be presenting Her Honour with our highest distinction and to welcome her as a member of the university community.”
“This honorary distinction conferred by Saint Paul University is a great honour. It attests to the fundamental importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge in the service of the common good, as well as the vital role of community engagement in advancing the Francophonie, here in Ontario and around the world. I receive it with gratitude, while paying tribute to all those who work each day to build a more just, humane, and united society,” shared Madame Dumont.
The Honourable Edith Dumont will be presented with the honorary doctorate as part of the University’s convocation ceremony on June 19.
A Champion of Education, Women’s Leadership and la Francophonie
The Honourable Edith Dumont has built a long and distinguished career defined by a commitment to education, community relationships, and the Franco-Ontarian community.
For more than 30 years, Madame Dumont worked for the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO). Beginning as a special education teacher, she progressed in her career and was appointed Director of Education and Secretary-Treasurer, becoming the first woman to hold this leadership position.
Through her leadership within the CEPEO, Madame Dumont was instrumental in creating more resilient and caring school communities. She launched initiatives in educational leadership and fostered relationships with international institutions to innovate in the areas of mental health, early childhood education, management and physical activity.
In 2023, Madame Dumont was appointed the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, becoming the first Franco-Ontarian to hold the office. In this role, she continues to champion the people of Ontario, to celebrate Franco-Ontarian culture and to build relationships with communities nationally and abroad.
About Saint Paul University
Founded in 1848, Saint Paul University is an institution steeped in tradition with values focused on creating a more just and humane future. With programs specialized in human and social sciences, the University seeks to drive positive social change and empower communities through research and innovation.
For all media inquiries, please contact:
Pascale Guillotte
Associate Director, Strategic Communications
Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
(437) 616-0681
pascale.guillotte@ontario.ca
Julie Bourassa
Communications Officer
Saint Paul University
613-236-1393, ext. 2310
jbourassa@ustpaul.ca
