Veteran broadcaster and journalist Max Keeping was awarded the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony on Wednesday, June 10, “in recognition of an outstanding contribution to the fields of journalism and communications and the Ottawa-Carleton community.”
Max Keeping has been a journalist for more than 50 years, including 36 years at CTV Ottawa, where he has become known in the community for his unfailing support of a variety of charities and social causes.
As a result of his belief in giving back to the community and putting children first, Mr. Keeping makes more than 200 personal appearances annually and has helped raise more than $100 million for charity. Among his many honours, Mr. Keeping has been named to the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario.
The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) has named a new wing after him in recognition of his continued support for the hospital and its patients. He is also a member of the Canadian Association of Broadcasting’s Hall of Fame. He has assisted with children’s charities across the Ottawa region, including the Children’s Wish Foundation and the Max Keeping Foundation, which helps children and their families meet emotional, physical, mental and emergency needs.
Mr. Keeping has also worked with organizations that benefit cancer research, the United Way and the Ottawa Alzheimer’s Society. Mr. Keeping is currently vice-president of news and public affairs at CTV Ottawa, and anchors its flagship 6 p.m. newscast. He was born in Grand Bank, Newfoundland.