The University of Lethbridge Senate is collecting nominations for the Spring and Fall 2012 Honorary Degrees, and is appealing to southern Alberta community groups to nominate individuals who have made a local, regional or worldwide impact on society.

"Our honorary degrees act as a mirror. We're looking to show the face of the region, the nation and the international community by honoring the best of what people give to their fellow human beings," says Alex Hann, Chair of the Honorary Degree Search Committee.

"Our recipients are those people who work hard to make a difference, through involvement in the community and charitable organizations. These extraordinary individuals are a vital part of the convocation process, as they celebrate alongside our own graduands and show them what is possible for those who seek to make the world a better place."

The University will honour two individuals at the Fall Convocation ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 15. They are from vastly different walks of life, but share a common interest in helping people.

Dr. John Kloppenborg, who works on the origins of Gospel narratives in the New Testament, has fundamentally reshaped New Testament studies and the history of early Christianity. He will be honoured along with Lethbridge resident George Gemer, who survived World War II prisoner of war camps to become a skilled draftsman and internationally acclaimed track and field coach and official.

To be eligible for Spring and Fall 2012 Convocations, nominations must be received by Nov. 1, 2011 at the University Senate Office (A767), 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4.

To obtain a nomination form, please call the Senate Office at 403-329-2482.

The University of Lethbridge Senate selects recipients from nominations provided by members of the general public and the University community. The Senate is empowered to confer honorary degrees by the Universities Act of Alberta.

Additional information is available at the Senate website: http://www.uleth.ca/sen