AURORA COLLEGE
Joseph Handley to receive Symons Medal in October 14 ceremony

The Chair of Aurora College's Board of Governors, Joseph Handley, will be honoured on October 14 with the prestigious Symon's Medal at a ceremony in Charlottetown, PEI. Handley, who was Premier of the Northwest Territories 2003-2007, will be joined in this honour with three other former premiers - Christy Clark of British Columbia, Dr. Philippe Couillard of Quebec and Frank McKenna of New Brunswick.

The Symons Medal, presented by the Confederation Centre of the Arts, recognizes individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to Canadian life. The annual medal presentation and associated lecture by medalists offer a national platform for eminent Canadians to discuss the nation's current state and prospects using themes related to their professional pursuits. Traditionally, the medal is presented to one person; in celebration of the award's twentieth anniversary and the 160^th anniversary of the Charlottetown Accord, the four 2024 recipients will each give a short lecture and then join a panel discussion.

Handley began his professional life as an educator in both elementary and post-secondary settings and worked in education administration before being appointed Deputy Minister of Education in the NWT. He then took on other leadership positions within the GNWT before being elected MLA for Weledeh in 1999 and assuming the role of premier in 2003. Since his retirement from territorial politics, Handley has served on numerous public boards and agencies. He has previously received the Queen Elizabeth Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals and an Aboriginal Achievement Award, among other honours.

Past recipients of the Symons medal include Senator Murray Sinclair, His Majesty King Charles III, Governors General Mary Simon and David Johnston, former Chief Justice of Canada Beverley McLachlin, as well as numerous prime ministers, premiers and other well-known Canadians.

Quotes:

 "Being chosen as a recipient of the Symons Medal is an example of the high esteem in which Joseph Handley is held both within and outside of the NWT. Aurora College is grateful that he has chosen to bring his wealth of experience and knowledge to our Board of Governors and his position as Chair. "

Dr. Angela James, President, Aurora College