Honorary degree citation - Maurice Frederick Strong*

By: Henry F. Hall, November 1967

Mr. Chancellor:

On behalf of the University Council and by authority of the Board of Governors, I have the honour to present to you Maurice Frederick Strong, Director General of the External Aid Office of Canada and President of the National Council of the Young Men's Christian Associations of Canada.

Mr. Strong was born and educated in Manitoba. Although still a young man, he has had a remarkable and diversified career. Business success in early life enabled him to travel widely. Accompanied by his wife, who fortunately shares his interests, he took a two year trip around the world during which he developed an abiding and practical interest in world problems. On his return to Canada he became identified with many efforts (notably the World Service Program of the YMCA) on behalf of developing nations. In these efforts, Mr. Strong's leadership and personal contributions of time and substance have been outstanding.

From 1962 to 1966, Mr. Strong lived in Montreal where he was Executive Vice President and then President of the Power Corporation of Canada. During this time he continued to serve many good causes including our own University. It is typical of his spirit, however, that he resigned all business positions a year ago to serve his country and the world as Director General of External Aid.

Mr. Chancellor, I can certify, together with all those who know him well, that Maurice Strong is one whose education and whose service are eminently worthy of this recognition.

Mr. Chancellor, it is with pride and pleasure that I present to you Maurice Frederick Strong, distinguished Canadian, dedicated humanitarian and citizen of the world that you may confer on him the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.

*Deceased