Frances Wright to receive honorary degree

The honorary degree, the Doctor of Laws, is the University of Calgary’s highest academic honour bestowed on individuals whose notable achievements and community service merit recognition. The recipient for Monday, Nov. 10 is:

Frances Wright – Afternoon convocation for the faculties of: Arts, Graduate Studies, Social Work and Werklund School of Education

Frances Wright is an accomplished entrepreneur, influential visionary and passionate community leader. An alumna of the University of Calgary (BA'68), she is committed to strengthening communities in Calgary and abroad.

As founder of the Famous 5 Foundation, Wright was instrumental in bringing long overdue recognition to these five democratic champions who succeeded in having women legally recognized as persons and, therefore eligible for appointment to the Senate. In 2004, Wright received the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case for her outstanding contribution to equality for women and girls in Canada. 

Wright is also the founder and current CEO of the Canadian Centre for Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse (cc4ms). With the goal of creating a world-class treatment centre in Calgary, she is dedicated to improving the lives of adult male survivors of childhood sexual abuse through treatment, education, advocacy and research.

Wright’s commitment to community goes beyond borders and every November she co-chairs an annual fundraiser for Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan.

In 2003, Wright received a Rotary Integrity Award and the following year was recognized by the Women’s Executive Network as one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women. She treasures her Queen’s Jubilee and Alberta Centennial Medals which are shared with family, friends and her husband, Richard Pootmans.

Wright’s life work showcases her passion for equality and Canada plus her determination to bring a voice to those not often heard. She is a role model and inspiration to many.