Divinity graduates 22 students, honours dedicated volunteer

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Twenty-two McMaster students will be awarded degrees from Divinity College this evening at the College's Spring Convocation in Convocation Hall.

Nine master of divinity, two master of religious education, seven master of theological studies, and one doctor of ministry degrees will be awarded. Two students will receive a diploma in ministry and a third student will receive a certificate of Christian studies.

Also this evening, an honorary Doctor of Laws degree will be presented to John Irwin, a well-known name in Canadian publishing and a leader and volunteer within the Christian community since the 1980s.

Born in Toronto, Irwin studied philosophy and history at University College, University of Toronto. Upon graduation, he embarked on a teaching career, but soon left that profession to launch a book publishing company. In 1988, he sold Irwin Publishing to Stoddart Publishing, which continues to operate the business as a publisher of educational books.

Irwin is being recognized for his extensive involvement in providing leadership to several Christian organizations. He has served on the board of trustees of McMaster Divinity College since 1985 and chaired the board from 1988 to 1999. He has also been active on the boards of Canadian Feed the Children, the Mustard Seed Mission and the Pioneer Clubs of Canada. He currently serves as general director of Scripture Union in Canada.

(Editor's note: Theo Angelov, who was also to receive an honorary degree, is unable to attend Convocation.)