Canadian music icon Alanis Morissette was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Ottawa during its Faculty of Arts spring convocation on June 6, 2025. Though currently on tour in Norway, the Ottawa-raised singer addressed graduates in a heartfelt pre-recorded message, sharing reflections on her hometown roots and offering graduates insights on individuality, emotional intelligence, and leadership.
Describing Ottawans as possessing “fortitude, emotional intelligence, dialogicality,” Morissette expressed pride in her upbringing and praised the new generation of graduates for their potential to shape the future. “Let the inquiry continue,” she encouraged, urging students to embrace their uniqueness and innate curiosity.
Known for chart-topping hits like “Ironic” and “You Oughta Know,” Morissette has garnered seven Grammy Awards and 15 Junos. Her landmark 1995 album Jagged Little Pill celebrates its 30th anniversary this week, having sold over 33 million copies globally.
The University of Ottawa also honored Chief Justice Michael H. Tulloch and Olympian Abby Hoffman at this year’s convocation. Morissette, who continues to champion wellness and women’s empowerment, will launch a limited Las Vegas residency this fall.
Swifteradio.com
