Gloria Mehlmann to receive an honorary degree at the U of R’s Spring 2023 Convocation on June 15
The University of Regina will confer an Honorary Doctor of Letters honoris causa (DLitt) to Gloria Mehlmann in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the humanities and literature.
Mehlmann taught at four schools in the Regina Public Schools system from 1962 to 1983, and was later seconded to serve as the director of Research and Development with the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, now First Nations University of Canada.
As the director of Aboriginal Education for the provincial Department of Education from 1994 to 2004, she oversaw the integration of Indigenous perspectives and content into the K-12 curriculum.
She also served as a member and chair of the Regina Public Library board and was the provincial library trustees association representative to the University of Regina Senate.
Her book, Gifted to Learn, is a memoir of her teaching career that was published in 2008, because, “every day provided a treasure trove of learning opportunities.” She then turned to creative writing, publishing a collection of stories titled Adam’s Tree, which is based on growing up on Cowessess First Nation and seeing the firsthand impacts of Indian Act policies and residential schooling.
In 2005 Mehlmann received the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in recognition of her contributions to education, libraries, and community development. She describes the award as an incredible honour, as is receiving an honorary degree. “I’m not sure what I will say to the graduates at the ceremony, but it will be about my love of learning, and it will be from my heart.”
“For her significant contributions to Saskatchewan’s education system, as well as for her accomplishments as an author, the University of Regina is proud to award Gloria Mehlmann an honorary doctor of letters,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jeff Keshen.
Mehlmann will be available to speak with media at 1 p.m. on June 15, prior to the convocation ceremony. Arrangements can be made via the contact noted.
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