Two Honorary Degrees Bestowed at 60th Convocation Ceremonies

At its 2024 Convocation Ceremonies, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) awarded Honorary Degrees to both Dr. George Littlechild and Sheldon Kennedy for providing meaningful impact provincially, nationally and globally.

Dr. Littlechild, a graduate of RDP’s Art and Design Diploma program, conveys messages through art that showcase the beauty, pride and strength of Indigenous Peoples. His vivid use of colour represents Indigenous being, history and two spiritedness, focusing on cultural, social and political injustices. 

Through his advocacy, creativity and leadership, Dr. Littlechild encourages individuals to embrace their authenticity while respecting others, contributing to a more inclusive society. His expressive art has become a pathway toward Healing, Truth and Reconciliation. 

Dr. Littlechild has received numerous honours and awards. This recognition includes a REVEAL Indigenous Art Award which recognizes Indigenous artists who have shown leadership in their home communities and worldwide.

As an instructor at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Dr. Littlechild has inspired students to tell stories through a variety of creative mediums by sharing his knowledge, skills and experiences. 

Dr. Littlechild’s artwork has been featured in over 200 solo and group exhibitions and 40 public collections worldwide, including at Red Deer Polytechnic. 

In September 2023, RDP’s public employees, Students' Association and Alumni Association purchased Dr. Littlechild’s art entitled 4 Star Art Warrior and gifted it to the Polytechnic’s Permanent Art Collection. The painting is proudly displayed inside the main entrance of Red Deer Polytechnic as a reminder to students, staff and visitors of the ongoing journey toward Truth and Reconciliation. 

While Sheldon Kennedy is known as a talented, former professional hockey player, his contributions to advance social priorities off the ice have made a significant impact to communities across Alberta and Canada.

Since retiring from hockey, Mr. Kennedy has been a steadfast advocate for the health and well-being of youth. He has participated in many events and initiatives that support children. Mr. Kennedy has helped to raise millions of dollars for abuse prevention programs and resources to support children and their families who are victims of maltreatment. 

He has received numerous honours and awards, including the Scotiabank Humanitarian Award, Alberta Order of Excellence and Order of Canada. 

As co-owner of Respect Group Inc., Mr. Kennedy has helped to empower individuals to recognize and prevent bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination through interactive, online training courses. More than 2.4 million individuals, including Red Deer Polytechnic employees and student-athletes, have taken courses offered by Respect Group Inc.

Mr. Kennedy was a catalyst in the vision of a child advocacy centre in central Alberta, which evolved into the world-class Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence. This state-of-the-art facility located on the Polytechnic’s main campus houses several strategic partners, including the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, Alberta Health Services and Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre. 

While this innovative facility provides a range of important services and resources for youth and their families under one roof, it also creates a variety of educational and applied research opportunities for many individuals, including RDP students and employees. 

Red Deer Polytechnic was very proud to acknowledge Dr. Littlechild and Mr. Kennedy at its historic 60th Convocation Ceremonies, which were attended by more than 800 of RDP’s 1,853 graduates on June 7.  

The Polytechnic’s tradition of granting Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Degrees began in 2014, recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to social, cultural or economic development. 

Dr. Littlechild and Mr. Kennedy join an esteemed group of 11 additional individuals who been awarded Honorary Degrees at Red Deer Polytechnic.

View our recap of the day