There are four new doctors in Greater Sudbury – Dr. Ralph McIntosh, Dr. Judith Straughan, Dr. Mary-Liz Warwick and Dr. Daniel Xilon.
Huntington University proudly conferred the Honorary Doctorate of Sacred Letters (DSL hc) upon these four community leaders at a special convocation ceremony held at Science North’s Vale Cavern Oct. 23.
“On behalf of the Board of Regents, we are proud to celebrate these remarkable individuals whose lives embody the very spirit of Huntington University,” said Scott Darling, vice-chair, Board of Regents at Huntington. “Their dedication to education, culture, and community service enriches not only our university but the Greater Sudbury region as a whole.”
“Each of the four esteemed recipients exemplify the values of service, leadership, and community engagement that are at the heart of Huntington University,” said Huntington president Kevin McCormick.
“It was an honour to celebrate their achievements, in my role as President and Vice-Chancellor of Huntington University, and recognize the profound impact they have made on the lives of so many in Greater Sudbury and beyond.”
The evening brought together alumni, students, dignitaries, and community members in celebration of the exceptional contributions of the honorees to education, culture, social services, and volunteerism.
Xilon, executive director of the Sudbury Food Bank, whose career has been defined by compassion, advocacy, and leadership in addressing food insecurity, was presented with the Honorary Doctorate of Sacred Letters, the press release said.
“My work has always been about people helping people,” he added. “This honour is really a reflection of our community’s strength and generosity.”
Judith Straughan, a past student of Huntington, as well as a teacher, writer and cultural leader whose work has strengthened arts and education in Northern Ontario, was also honoured that evening.
“I would like to sincerely thank Dr. Kevin McCormick and the Huntington Board of Regents for this great honour,” she said. “Throughout my work with organizations, arts and otherwise, I am always part of a team. I always try to demonstrate what Huntington taught me as a student … show up, be ready, and give back with dedication.”
Also recognized for their accomplishments and contributions were Warwick, an educator, community leader, fundraiser, and dedicated volunteer with a legacy of service to Huntington University and the Sudbury community, as well as McIntosh, who is a well-respected educator, musician and lifelong champion of the arts in Greater Sudbury.
Visit huntingtonu.ca/about-hu/honorary-doctorates for biographies of each of the 2025 recipients.