Fiercely independent folk-rocker Ani DiFranco has received an honorary degree from the University of Winnipeg.
The honor was bestowed last Friday at the University’s Convocation Hall. DiFranco received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters which is given to those who have made “a significant contribution to the Arts and Humanities.”
Lloyd Axworth, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Winnipeg said “DiFranco has long been an advocate for social justice and environmental sustainability, and she lives those values as both a performer and entrepreneur.
“Ani is a strong example of courage, tenacity and compassion — characteristics that our university holds in high esteem. We are pleased to welcome Ani to our university community and we are grateful to our partner, the Winnipeg Folk Festival, for its significant role in facilitating our ability to bestow this honor.”
The same day, DiFranco was given the Winnipeg Folk Festival Artistic Achievement Award for 2013. The award recognizes outstanding artistic achievement by folk musicians.
Her award follows previous winners Loreena McKennitt, Bruce Cockburn, Odetta, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Richard Thompson, Billy Bragg, Leon Redbone, Oscar Brand and Sarah Harmer.
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