Citizen staff
Marcel Gagnon, Lheidli T'enneh elder and artist, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws during the virtual 2021 convocation at the University of Northern BC on June 25 at 9:30 a.m. during the College of Arts, Social & Health Sciences ceremony.
Gagnon, a member of the Beaver Clan, is a tireless advocate for those who endure the symptoms of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum, as he does.
Gagnon has worked for almost 20 years as an addictions counselor with men in corrections.
As an elder he shares his knowledge of his culture and was instrumental in bringing the Indigenous Court System to Prince George.
“It’s a great honour to be selected to receive this honorary doctorate, Gagnon said. "I accept and share this honour in the name of my dear mother Margaret Gagnon.”
Marcel has released four studio albums, two that got Juno nods and he has also developed and performed autobiographical play called The Drum is Calling You Home.
Gagnon has been UNBC's Elder in Residence since 2018 where he often shares his talent with students, faculty and staff.
Gagnon who lives off the grid north of Prince George is currently writing his memoir.
