Richard Johnston receives Honorary Degree

More than 3,000 spectators gathered at Mejiro University in Japan to watch Malaspina University-College President Richard Johnston receive an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Education earlier this month.

"Effective leadership is a rare skill and those who have worked with President Johnston have enjoyed the benefit of his guidance and his leadership," said Mejiro University President Koki Sato during his opening remarks, April 3. "He has helped Mejiro University put programs in place that have brought great success to our students, to faculty members and to our university as a whole."

The association between Malaspina and Mejiro University dates back to 1989 when the two institutions first worked together to establish international education programs which would span the Pacific Rim and bring the people of Canada and Japan closer together.

According to President Sato, Johnston’s guidance has aided Mejiro in meeting their goals. "Our success on the international stage has been due in large part, to President Johnston’s skills as an educator. His efforts have engendered a greater world view amongst the students and faculties of both countries."

"I am extremely honoured that Mejiro University has recognized me, and Malaspina, in this way." said Johnston. "Our two institutions mirror one another in terms of our commitment to student success and commitment to international development. The student experience at both Malaspina and Mejiro has been enriched as a result of the partnership that exists between our two organizations. I believe the diversity and cultural opportunities that are brought to our campuses by our international students add to the quality of life on campus and contribute greatly to the entire educational experience had by both domestic and international students."

Johnston also holds an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Kwantlen University College in Surrey, British Columbia, and an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Hanseo in Korea.