Prince George, B.C.-  Each year,  the University of Northern B.C. names two recipients of honourary degrees to be presented during convocation.  This year,   one of the University’s founders will be honoured.

Prince George lawyer, Roy J, Stewart QC,  will  receive an Honourary Doctor of Law Degree from the University.   Stewart is not the first of the founders or champions  of UNBC to be honoured in this way, yet,  he  is both surprised  and humbled ” It’s overwhelming  really, when you think about it” says Stewart ” I deeply appreciate it, and it’s probably the most significant event I’ve ever experienced  from the point of view of things I’ve done and any acknowledgement that’s been given.”

“This is simply the highest  and best way the  University can acknowledge and honour someone who has been able to achieve something of merit” says Stewart “and they have decided my efforts including my leadership  in terms of the University’s creation (should be recognized).”

He served as the final President of the Interior University Society from 1989 to 1992 in a role that was instrumental in leading to the establishment of UNBC.

Stewart served as chair of the UNBC Foundation from 1992 to 1995 and developed a fundraising campaign entitled North to the Future. The endowment effort permitted the new University to attract world-class scholars and the best students – enhancing UNBC’s credibility right from the start.

Stewart will receive his honorary degree at the College of Arts, Social and Health Sciences ceremony on May 26 at 9:30 a.m.

The other honourary degree will be  awarded to forensic anthropology expert Fredy Peccerelli .   He is the executive director and founding member of the Forensic Anthropology Foundation of Guatemala (FAFG) and served as an Adjunct Professor in both UNBC’s Geography Program and Anthropology Departments in 2012-13.

Peccerelli  leads the development of a Multidisciplinary Human Identification System that applies victim investigation, forensic archeology, forensic anthropology and forensic genetics to uncover the identity of victims of mass crimes, and the truth behind their disappearances.

Peccerelli will receive his honorary degree at the College of Science and Management ceremony on May 26 at 2:30 p.m.