In recognition of his accomplishments as one of the most successful competitive snowboarders in history, and for his service to the community, the University of Regina confers an Honorary Doctor of Laws honoris causa (LLD) to snowboarder Mark McMorris. The Saskatchewan snowboarder is one of the sport’s most decorated athletes, holding three Olympic medals, 22 X Games medals, and four US Open Championship wins.
“Honestly, I never thought I would receive anything like this,” says McMorris. “Being recognized with an honorary degree from the University of Regina is a huge honour.”
“Mark McMorris has reached unprecedented heights in the sport of snowboarding, made even more amazing considering his roots are firmly planted in Saskatchewan, which could be considered topographically challenging for the sport,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jeff Keshen. “For his outstanding athletic accomplishments and service to community, the University of Regina is proud to award McMorris an Honorary Doctor of Laws.”
McMorris is also a trailblazer on social media, and he lets his personality shine through, attracting fans and brand partners alike. He was named the most socially engaged Olympian at Sochi 2014 by SportsBusiness Journal and has partnered with many top brands in the snowboarding and lifestyle space over the years.
McMorris strives to inspire others and build his legacy. In 2012, he and his brother Craig, a professional snowboarder and broadcast commentator, launched the McMorris Foundation to help Canadian children in need participate in sports. As a kid, McMorris says, he played every sport under the sun, and is thankful for his background in other sports as it helped shape his snowboarding career.
“When I started making a living off snowboarding it was a no-brainer to create a foundation and try to give back, and give kids a similar opportunity to what I had growing up.”
The McMorris Foundation has raised more than $350,000 and helped to provide over 3,500 Canadian kids with athletic opportunities.