Thunder Bay, Ont. – Lakehead University will recognize the accomplishments of its graduating students during the convocation ceremonies at its Thunder Bay campus on May 28 and 29.
During the 2026 convocation ceremonies in Thunder Bay and Orillia, Lakehead University will not only honor its graduates but also pay tribute to distinguished Canadians and community leaders who have made lasting contributions in education, Indigenous knowledge, public service, arts and culture, advocacy, and community development.
“Crossing the convocation stage signifies not just the conclusion of a chapter-it represents a transformation,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddall. “During their time at Lakehead, our graduates have developed their knowledge, confidence, and resilience. The entire university community is honoured to celebrate their achievements and to be a part of their journey. Congratulations to the class of 2026!”
Along with celebrating the class of 2026, Lakehead will award honorary degrees to three remarkable individuals and bestow two individuals with the title of Fellow of the University for their impactful work in education, Indigenous knowledge, public service, arts and culture, and community leadership.
Theresa Redsky Fiddler, Dr. Gary Polonsky, and William (Bill) Heibein will each receive honorary degrees. Kevin Cleghorn and Brian Mc Kinnon will be honored as Fellows of the University.
“The Lakehead community is proud to recognize the work and dedication of this year’s honorary degree recipients and fellows,” said Dr. Siddall. “Each has made meaningful contributions to their communities and professions, and their stories will inspire our graduates as they move forward into the future.”
Honorary Degree Recipients
Theresa Redsky Fiddler
Doctor of Humane Letters
Theresa Fiddler, also known as Teri Redsky Fiddler, is a respected Knowledge Keeper, Traditional Practitioner, and community leader from Treaty #3 territory. Raised in Big Grassy River First Nation and Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, she has devoted her life to supporting Indigenous communities through leadership, teachings, and traditional knowledge.
After raising five children with her late husband Josias Fiddler, Teri Redsky Fiddler returned to complete her education as an adult learner. She graduated high school alongside two of her sons before earning a diploma in Social Service Work. She later served for 14 years as a Band Councillor for Sandy Lake First Nation.
Today, Teri Redsky Fiddler continues sharing teachings with provincial and national organizations while serving as a Knowledge Keeper for the Assembly of First Nations; Chiefs of Ontario; Nishnawbe Aski Nation; she also serves as Traditional Practitioner Consultant for Sandy Lake First Nation.
The degree of Doctor of Humane Letters will be conferred on Thursday May 28 at 9 a. m.
Dr. Gary Polonsky
Doctor of Education
Dr. Gary Polonsky is one of Canada’s most influential post-secondary leaders with over 40 years spent across colleges and universities in five provinces. A native of Thunder Bay he played a key role in expanding access to education while advancing applied research along with strengthening partnerships between institutions & communities.
He served as President at Durham College from 1988 until 2006 before becoming founding president for what would become Ontario Tech University in 2001 while concurrently remaining President at Durham College – an impressive feat within Canadian higher education.
Gary has contributed greatly towards public service & community leadership including serving Chair on Board behind development efforts surrounding Thunder Bay Community Auditorium..His numerous honors include national leadership awards along with two Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medals..
The degree Doctor Education shall be conferred upon him Thursday May twenty-eight during afternoon session starting promptly at two o’clock p. m..
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