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Sheldon Kennedy receives Olds College honorary degree

Sheldon Kennedy has been honoured by Olds College for his contributions to the well-being of Canadians.
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“If I have influenced good leadership through my advocacy efforts, then I accept this award as honouring that collaborative work,” says Sheldon Kennedy of his honorary degree (Photo courtesy of Olds College)

Sheldon Kennedy has been honoured by Olds College for his contributions to the well-being of Canadians.

The former NHLer, who pivoted to advocacy after going public as a victim of sexual abuse by his coach, was awarded the 2020 honorary degree for his contributions to the prevention of bullying and child abuse.

Kennedy co-founded the Calgary & Area Child Advocacy Centre (formerly known as the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre), which provides services to children and their families to assess, treat and seek justice for abused children.

He also co-founded Respect Group, an organization that provides training to companies, sport organizations and schools.

“Sheldon has shown tremendous support of Olds College through the Respect Group organization,” said Olds College president Stuart Cullum.

“His passion for creating safe, respectful environments for people to feel empowered reflects the values that we hold at Olds College.

Kennedy was recently awarded the Order of Hockey by Hockey Canada for his advocacy efforts, as well as the WHL Governor General Award.

He was also inducted in Canada’s Sport Hall of Fame and is currently serving on an independent advisory panel that is looking into abuse and bullying across the Canadian Hockey League.

“To me, this award represents the fact that leaders and proactive organizations, like Olds College, are ready and willing to make positive change,” said Kennedy.

“If I have influenced good leadership through my advocacy efforts, then I accept this award as honouring that collaborative work.”



Byron Hackett

About the Author: Byron Hackett

Byron has been the sports reporter at the advocate since December of 2016. He likes to spend his time in cold hockey arenas accompanied by luke warm, watered down coffee.
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