The University of Lethbridge is privileged to recognize Canadian icon and three-time Paralympic gold medalist Rick Hansen with an honorary degree at the 2018 Spring Convocation ceremonies.

Hansen, known as the Man in Motion for undertaking an epic two-year 40,000 km journey around the world in his wheelchair, is the founder and CEO of the Rick Hansen Foundation, an organization committed to creating a world without barriers for people with disabilities.

“We are thrilled that Mr. Hansen has accepted our offer of an honorary degree and look forward to welcoming him to campus,” says U of L Chancellor Janice Varzari. “His commitment to removing barriers and enhancing engagement for physically disabled people speaks to the value of inclusiveness that we champion here at the U of L. He is richly deserving of this honour.”

The U of L will present Hansen with a doctor of laws, honoris causa, at the 2018 Spring Convocation II Ceremony at 2:30 p.m. on May 31, 2018 in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gymnasium.

Rick Hansen

An iconic Canadian who turned personal tragedy into a lifelong commitment to better the lives of people with disabilities, Rick Hansen has been at the forefront of the disability rights movement for more than 30 years.

Hansen is best known as the Man in Motion for his 1985 tour to raise awareness for people with disabilities. Over the course of 26 months, Hansen and his wheelchair covered 40,000 kilometres through 34 countries on four continents, raising $26 million in support of the physically disabled.

The Rick Hansen Foundation has raised more than $359 million to assist in awareness, removing barriers and funding research for the cure and care of people with spinal cord injuries.