Tom Jackson was awarded the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at the 2:00 p.m. ceremony on Wednesday, June 14, “in recognition of his award-winning work as actor, musician, philanthropist and university chancellor.’’
Recording artist to some, celebrated actor and author to others, he is extraordinarily passionate about creating change.
A bass-baritone voice for food banks, the disenfranchised, the traumatized and now an Ambassador for the Canadian Red Cross, he is Canada’s go-to “minstrel with a mission” and Renaissance man.
Jackson is known for organizing the Huron Carole, a touring Christmas-themed production which raises funds for Canadian food banks. He has been honoured with numerous accolades, including Officer of the Order of Canada, Juno and Gemini Humanitarian Awards and nine honorary degrees.
He served as chancellor of Trent University from 2009 to 2013 and is a proud bearer of the 2014 Governor General’s Performing Arts Award. Jackson is most content marching into boardrooms or shelters ready to dispense a
hug and mobilize others.