Dr. Cheryl Jayne Misak (BA '83)

Philosopher, scholar, and administrator, Cheryl Jayne Misak, is internationally renowned for her academic excellence. She graduated from the University of Lethbridge with great distinction in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy and, in 1984, completed her master's at Columbia University.

As the University of Lethbridge's first Rhodes scholar, she attended the University of Oxford and completed her doctorate in 1988, before beginning her career with the University of Toronto in 1990 as a professor of philosophy. Endowed with natural leadership qualities, she has since held many administrative positions and brings a wealth of experience, expertise and wisdom to her current position as the University of Toronto's vice-president and provost.

Misak has been interested in the philosophy of Charles Sanders Peirce since her first year at the University of Lethbridge and has written and edited numerous articles and books that focus largely on his theory of truth. She is internationally recognized for her thought provoking, clear and challenging philosophical arguments and has been invited to speak at institutions and conferences all over the world.

Over the last few years, Misak has also been researching medical ethics. Her papers, published in the Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Chest and Critical Care, have notably impacted the profession.

Throughout her career, she has received many honours for her professional and academic accomplishments, including the Alberta Centennial Medal (2005), and was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2001).

The University of Lethbridge Alumni Association is proud to recognize Cheryl Jayne Misak as the 2009 Distinguished Alumna of the Year for her outstanding academic and professional achievements.