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Clara Hughes awarded Loyola Medal

Olympian joins ranks of hockey greats, astronauts and philanthropists to capture Concordia’s top honour
March 31, 2014
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By Scott McCulloch


Six-time Olympic cycling and speed-skating medallist Clara Hughes has added another medal to her collection — the Loyola Medal.

Clara Hughes Clara Hughes | Photo: Joseph Dresdner

Hughes is the 20th recipient of the prestigious accolade, conceived at Loyola College in 1961 to pay tribute to outstanding Canadians.

Hughes said she was honoured and humbled to accept the award.

The ceremony was organized by Advancement and Alumni Relations to recognize Hughes for her public service and nationwide drive to end the stigma associated with mental illness.

Hughes, who is on a cross-Canada bike tour for Bell’s Let’s Talk mental health campaign, invoked her late father’s advice to channel her personal successes and help others.

“From the bottom of my heart this means the world to me,” Hughes said. “It would have meant the world to my dad.”

Donal Ryan, Clara Hughes, Bram Freedman and Alan Shepard Donal Ryan, Clara Hughes, Bram Freedman and Alan Shepard | Photo: Joseph Dresdner

Concordia President Alan Shepard lauded Hughes’ efforts as an Olympian and humanitarian.

“Bringing mental healthcare out of the shadows and into the sun, where people can get treated without stigma, is a huge challenge for our time,” Shepard said.

More than 160 guests took part in the ceremony, held on March 27 at Concordia’s Loyola Jesuit Hall and Conference Centre.

 

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