Deanne's Speech Upon Receiving an Honourary Doctorate from Mount Saint Vincent University

Deanne, you are right our moms would be so proud. What you bring to this world, and how humble you are…so glad you found your passion and followed it.

What a truly amazing, thoughtful and inspirational speech Deanne. You are truly a unique and special lady. I never met you, but have to say that you inspire me so much! Congratulations on your doctorate. What an amazing honour.

Dr. Deanne Fitzpatrick, Congratulations to you. Seems like such an inconsequential word at this moment. I’ve just finished listening and watching your address to the 2022 Saint Mary’s graduates upon your receipt of this honour. From your introduction to the end of your words I have had tears in my eyes. You are an amazing human; thank you to the individuals who brought forward your nomination and to the St. Mary’s Senate for their support of your nomination. I am struck with the weight of your recognition and everything it speaks to so many communities/individuals in society. Then your words to the graduates; so heartfelt and so wise, so HUMAN!! My heart is full and I am humbled to even had the opportunity to know of you and have met you. Your artistry and then all the other dimensions of your engagement with us all speak to your humanity and deep insights to being human. Thank you to the team for posting this and sharing it with our community. I will be sharing it with many.

Your address to the graduates was so …….. no words to describe it. I felt so included in it. I only heard your voice, nothing else around me. You lifted up every single person in that auditorium. We were all affected by your words. I am so glad that I am part of your world. Thank you so much Deanne and congratulations!

Congratulations! Please continue to be the special person you are!