Convocation is about to take on a whole new meaning for Dr. Axel Meisen, Memorial’s seventh president and vice-chancellor who stepped down last year.

Instead of helping confer degrees to graduating students and delivering his annual report during ceremonies this fall, Dr. Meisen will be receiving an honorary degree next month from the University of Waterloo.

Dr. Meisen, one of Memorial’s leading past presidents, will be honoured by the university on Oct. 25 at a ceremony in Ontario.

He stepped down from Memorial in December 2007 to take up a new position with the Alberta Research Council.

Waterloo calls Dr. Meisen “one of Canada's best engineering educators. In his pioneering research on fine aerosol-type particles, Meisen contributed to a better understanding of the capture of these particles from air. His work has resulted in the improvement of air quality.”

He will be awarded a doctor of engineering degree from the university as well as give a convocation address.

Earlier this year, Dr. Meisen was named a member of the Order of Canada by Governor General Michaëlle Jean. The Order of Canada is the highest civilian honour in Canada.

Currently he is chair of foresight with the Alberta Research Council.