Dickinson receives OC honorary degree

Entrepreneur, Olds College partner and former Dragons' Den participant Arlene Dickinson is the 2017 Olds College honorary degree recipient.

College president Tom Thompson made that announcement during the institution's annual gala at the Ralph Klein Centre this past Friday (March 24).

Thompson noted the Calgary resident is also honorary chair of the college's Beyond capital campaign.

"Simply stated, I cannot think of anyone more deserving for our wonderful college's highest recognition," he said.

"Arlene's contribution to young, inspiring entrepreneurs is beyond compare. She is a wonderful champion of Olds College and we have developed a strong partnership with her through District Ventures and our Beyond campaign."

Unfortunately, Dickinson was unable to be at the gala, due to a speaking engagement in Toronto. But she sent a video expressing her thanks for the honour.

"I feel really privileged and blessed to be able to be a partner with Olds College and to have – as an Albertan – watched the expansion and advancement of the college over the last number of decades," she said.

"I know that my father, who was a big believer in education and who was a professor himself and had a doctor's degree, would be really honoured on my behalf and he would tell me that now I needed actually go to school and actually earn that degree. Dad, this one's for you," she added, sparking applause.

Thompson said the college plans on conferring the degree upon Dickinson during graduation ceremonies in June.

During the evening, Olds College chair Bob Clark noted this year is Thompson's last as president.

He said Thompson embodied the evening's theme: Inspire, Innovate, Ignite.