Traditionally, the University of Guelph presents its University Professor Emeriti and Faculty Awards during convocation ceremonies. With COVID-19 restrictions in place and the inability to gather for convocation, a special online ceremony was held to present these awards – the highest honours bestowed by the University of Guelph.
University Professor Emeriti designations are made on the recommendation of the Senate to those who demonstrate sustained, outstanding scholarship that is internationally recognized.
The John Bell Award recognizes outstanding contributions to education at the University of Guelph.
The Medal of Merit is awarded to a retired U of G professor whose outstanding contributions to teaching, University operations or other areas have substantially improved the academic life and character of the University.
Congratulations to this year’s recipients.
2020 U of G Faculty Medal Recipients and University Professor Emeriti
Dr. John Dawson – College of Biological Science 
John Bell Award
Dr. John Dawson has earned well-deserved recognition as a passionate and innovative instructor, a mentor to students and colleagues at all career stages, and a nationally respected leader in the scholarship of teaching and learning.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. John Dawson, recipient of the John Bell Award.
Dr. Kenneth Dorter – College of Arts
Medal of Merit
Commitment to philosophical acumen and to lifelong learning have made Dr. Kenneth Dorter an inspiring teacher and a dedicated contributor to academic life at U of G. His teaching and research have been integral to the success of the Department of Philosophy.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Kenneth Dorter, recipient of the Medal of Merit.
Dr. Anthony Clarke – College of Biological Science 
University Professor Emeritus
A prominent and highly respected member of the U of G community for more than 30 years, Dr. Anthony Clarke is a world-recognized expert in the biochemistry of bacterial cell walls. His productive research program has been part of an international effort to combat the rising public health threat of microbial antibiotic resistance.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Anthony Clarke, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Serge Desmarais – College of Social and Applied Human Sciences
University Professor Emeritus
An applied social psychologist and respected university administrator, Dr. Serge Desmarais is renowned for excellence in teaching, research and service. Dr. Desmarais has used knowledge and research acumen in fields including gender norms, social justice and entitlement to address pressing societal problems.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Serge Desmarais, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. George Harauz – College of Biological Science
University Professor Emeritus
Dr. George Harauz has established an enviable reputation as an outstanding researcher, educator and mentor during more than three decades in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. He is internationally recognized as a leader in studies of the structure and dynamics of basic proteins that are altered in people with multiple sclerosis.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. George Harauz, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Stephen Marshall – Ontario Agricultural College
University Professor Emeritus
A leading world expert in entomology and fly systematics, Dr. Stephen Marshall has demonstrated commitment to research and teaching during his decades-long career. As a mentor and instructor, he trained many top entomologists now pursuing biodiversity careers.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Stephen Marshall, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Éva Nagy – Ontario Veterinary College
University Professor Emerita
A leader in veterinary virology, Dr. Éva Nagy has made outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine in Canada and internationally through teaching, research and service.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Éva Nagy, University Professor Emerita.
Dr. Linda Parker – College of Social and Applied Human Sciences
University Professor Emerita
Dr. Linda Parker is a respected educator and researcher who has made strong and sustained contributions to teaching and scholarship over the past 15 years in the Department of Psychology and is a leader in studies of cannabinoid effects on the brain,
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Linda Parker, University Professor Emerita.
Dr. Steven Rothstein – College of Biological Science
University Professor Emeritus
Dr. Steven Rothstein has led a rich and distinguished career as one of the most prominent plant biologists in Canada and a respected global leader in the field. Dr. Rothstein harnessed scientific and business acumen to establish a cross-disciplinary master of biotechnology program that now serves as a career-building experience for graduates.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Steven Rothstein, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Elizabeth Stone – Ontario Veterinary College
University Professor Emerita
As dean of the Ontario Veterinary College and an internationally recognized leader in veterinary education, Dr. Elizabeth Stone pursued a progressive vision to further strengthen the college’s reputation as a world leader in veterinary education, research and service. Dr. Stone led the development of numerous high-profile initiatives for the college between 2005 and 2015.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Elizabeth Stone, University Professor Emerita.
Dr. Clarence Swanton – Ontario Agricultural College
University Professor Emeritus
Among the world’s most highly respected weed scientists, Dr. Clarence Swanton has been an active researcher and teacher at the University of Guelph for more than 30 years. He played an integral role in attaining $77 million in federal funding for the University’s Food from Thought research project intended to find sustainable ways to feed a growing world.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Clarence Swanton, University Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Patricia Turner – Ontario Veterinary College
University Professor Emerita
Dr. Patricia Turner has made outstanding scholarly and professional contributions to laboratory veterinary science in Canada and abroad. She has committed herself to the advancement of animal health and welfare through teaching, research and service.
Watch a reading of the full citation for Dr. Patricia Turner, University Professor Emerita.
The full 2020 University Professor Emeriti and Faculty Awards ceremony can be viewed online.