Convocation season kicks off at McMaster

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former president of Liberia, was presented with an honorary doctor of laws degree and delivered the convocation address to graduates in McMaster's faculty of humanities as well as arts and science program during their convocation held at FirstOntario Concert Hall.

Sirleaf was Africa's first elected female head of state, serving two terms as president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018. She led the country through reconciliation and recovery following a decade-long civil war and was a co-recipient of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to further women's rights.

Sirleaf spent considerable time in government in the African country, often clashing with the leadership. In the early 1980s, she was imprisoned twice during Samuel Doe's time as leader. Following a 1985 national election, she was arrested and began a 10-year prison sentence.

She was twice exiled from the country for her own safety, yet continued to return in an effort to help the people and stabilize the often chaotic political situation.

McMaster University's spring convocations continue throughout the week, with thousands of graduates being honoured for competing their studies during a difficult, pandemic-restricted time.

Barry Gray is a Hamilton-based photojournalist at The Spectator. Reach him via email: bgray@thespec.com