Mayor Hazel McCallion to receive honorary degree

The University of Toronto will honour Mayor Hazel McCallion, Mississauga's longest serving Mayor, on Monday, June 7, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. with an honorary doctor of laws in recognition of her remarkable contributions to public life.

Hazel McCallion was first elected Mayor of Mississauga in November 1978, and has served as Mayor for more than 32 years. During that time, she has led the transformation of the suburbs and small towns on the outskirts of Toronto into Mississauga, Canada's 6th largest city. Under the Mayor's guidance, Mississauga has been praised for its strong economy, thriving multiculturalism, and excellent recreational, cultural, and educational facilities. Her achievements have brought the Mayor and her city international acclaim and she is past chair the World Health Organization's Symposiums on Healthy Cities.

At the age of 89, Hazel McCallion continues to inspire and motivate. She is a tireless supporter of World Vision through her Hazel's Hope charity for children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Members of the media are invited to attend the convocation ceremony, but seating is very limited and advance confirmation of attendance is required. Please RSVP to U of T media relations at 416-978-0100 no later than 3 p.m. on Friday, June 4.

WHAT: Mayor of Mississauga Hazel McCallion to receive honorary degree at spring convocation.
WHEN: Monday, June 7, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. Media need to RSVP in advance and should arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. to ensure seating.
WHERE: University of Toronto, Convocation Hall, 31 King's College Circle.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact media relations at 416-978-0100