Lakehead University will celebrate the achievements of 730 graduates at its Orillia campus convocation ceremony on June 5, 2025.
"Crossing the convocation stage signifies not just the conclusion of a chapter it represents a transformation," stated 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 2025!"
This year's ceremony will also recognize the leadership, contributions, and community impact of four local residents with the conferral of one honorary degree and three distinguished awards: Ligaya Byrch will receive this year's honorary degree, Chief Ted Williams will be awarded the title of Fellow of the University, and Barbara Jones and Anne Hilliard will be presented with this year's Civitas Award.
"The Lakehead community is excited to celebrate the incredible work and local contributions of this year's honourees," said Dr. Siddall. "This year's recipients have all had a tremendous impact on Lakehead Orillia, our city, and our region in various ways. I'm pleased that we're celebrating their commitment and outstanding leadership in a way that is not only meaningful but establishes their lasting legacy with Lakehead University."
Ligaya Byrch
Doctor of Humane Letters
With a track record of service and success in supporting LGBTQ+ communities across Ontario, Ligaya Byrch started her work as a volunteer in the community of Windsor and on campus at the University of Windsor. This activism grew in popularity and recognition as she created her award-winning spoken-word show, LesBiQ Airwaves on CJAM Radio. She was involved in developing the needs assessment and collection of information required to write a proposal, which led to the funding of primary health care for transgender individuals living in Simcoe Muskoka. Located in Orillia, this clinic serves over 3,000 people and is the only one of its kind between Toronto and Sudbury. Ligaya's work has spanned the fields of healthcare, non-profit community health, public health, family health teams, community health centres, and hospitals.
Chief Ted Williams
Fellow of the University
Chief Ted Williams is a proud member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation and a respected leader and entrepreneur with over 40 years of service to his community. Known both for his iconic chainsaw bear carvings and his role as the current Chief of Rama First Nation, he was instrumental in the successful development of Casino Rama a $200 million project completed in just 18 months. His diverse background includes work as a real estate agent, membership on the Ontario Parole Board, and over 13 years as a consultant and speaker specializing in leadership, strategic planning, and personal development. Above all, Chief Ted takes the greatest pride in his family: his wife of 46 years and their two accomplished children.
Anne Hilliard and Barbara Jones
Civitas Award
Anne Hilliard
Anne Hilliard and Barb Jones are both prominent members of the vibrant seniors' community in Orillia, and keen advocates of lifelong learning. In 2018, they were instrumental to establishing Third Age Learning Lakehead (TALL), a program that has now hosted more than 100 lectures in the Orillia community, providing seniors with opportunities to learn and connect. The first series, "The 60s: The decade that changed the world?" was followed by others, including those addressing climate change, fake news, aging in place, music, and - most recently - artificial intelligence. Both Anne and Barb retired from exceptional careers in education, and their passion for lifelong learning, Lakehead, and the community is incredible.
Barbara Jones
For more information, visit lakeheadu.ca/convocation.
