1971 Fredericton Convocation

Harrison, James Merritt

Doctor of Science (D.Sc.)

Orator: Condon, Thomas J.

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L to R: Sir Max Aitken, James Merritt Harrison
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Source: PR(5); Photo by Stone's Studio

Citation:

CONVOCATION, OCTOBER, 1971
JAMES MERRITT HARRISON
to be Doctor of Science

Dr. Harrison's interests have long centered on the earth sciences even before that term became fashionable. As chemist, as guiding spirit and Director of the Geological Survey of Canada, and since 1964, as Assistant Deputy Minister of Energy, Mines, and Resources, his interests and activities have converged on this important sector of human life and scientific inquiry.

He holds degrees from Manitoba and Queen's, and has received honourary degrees from both alma maters as well as from Calgary and McMaster. Besides an affinity for air, water, and earth, Dr. Harrison seems to have an affinity for presidencies. He was first President of the International Union of Geological Sciences, President of the International Council of Scientific Unions, President of the Geological Association of Canada, and President of the Royal Society of Canada, to mention some. He has been honoured abroad as well as at home -- by Columbia University, the National Academy of Sciences in the United States, and by the Geological Society of London. Last year he received the Outstanding Achievement Award of the Public Service of Canada.

The University of New Brunswick takes great pleasure in conferring its degree upon this dedicated public servant and distinguished mediator between science research and science policy. At a time when it has never been more necessary to establish the proper relationship between human and scientific priorities, Canada is fortunate that it can draw upon the experience and wisdom of Dr. Harrison.

From: Honoris Causa - UA Case 70, Box 1

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