Two Western Law alumni receive honorary degrees at spring convocation
June 12, 2026
Western University honoured two distinguished members of the Faculty of Law community at spring convocation, recognizing Richard McLaren and Kevin Sullivan for influential careers spanning law, business, sport, entrepreneurship and public service.
McLaren, a longtime Western Law professor and counsel with McKenzie Lake Lawyers LLP, and Sullivan (BA ’80, LLB ’83), president of KMS Capital Ltd., were among nine honorary degree recipients recognized during ceremonies held June 8 to 12, 2026, at Canada Life Place in London.
“Richard and Kevin exemplify what it means to lead with purpose,” said Western Law Dean Mohamed Khimji. “Their careers reflect a deep connection to this community and to the values we instill at Western Law. Their legacies of leadership will continue to inspire our students for generations to come.”
Richard McLaren, DCL
Richard McLaren, one of Canada’s leading authorities in sports law and arbitration, received an honorary Doctor of Civil Law degree.
A globally respected figure in international sport, McLaren is best known for leading a World Anti-Doping Agency investigation into Russia’s state-sponsored doping program connected to the Sochi Olympics. The investigation found that hundreds of athlete samples had been manipulated between 2011 and 2015, leading to significant sanctions against Russian sport and reshaping global anti-doping efforts. The investigation also helped form the foundation for the Academy Award-winning documentary Icarus.
McLaren’s career has taken him across baseball, tennis, boxing, weightlifting and hockey. He has served with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, acted as an arbitrator in National Hockey League disputes, helped establish Canada’s Sport Dispute Resolution Centre, and chaired anti-doping tribunals for several international sports organizations.
Despite his international reputation, McLaren said recognition from Western and the local community carried special meaning.
“Having the local people and the university recognize your contribution is really humbling and very gratifying,” he said following the ceremony.
In his convocation address, McLaren encouraged graduates to approach the rise of artificial intelligence with judgment, adaptability and a willingness to evolve.
“Adaptability is going to be the winner,” he said. “I think that’s going to be the compass of students’ lives.”
Kevin Sullivan, LLD
Kevin Sullivan, recognized for his leadership in Canadian capital markets and his longstanding commitment to Western University and entrepreneurship, received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
A Western graduate with both a BA and LLB, Sullivan co-founded GMP Securities LP and served as president and CEO of GMP Capital from 1999 to 2010, helping grow the firm into one of Canada’s leading independent investment dealers. He now serves as president of KMS Capital Ltd., a Toronto-based advisory firm.
Sullivan has also made significant contributions through philanthropy and board service, including with Waterfront Toronto and Right To Play International.
His commitment to Western has continued well beyond his time as a student. A longstanding supporter of entrepreneurship on campus and across the country, Sullivan has provided leadership, strategic guidance and support that have helped strengthen Western’s innovation ecosystem.
To learn more about the full cohort of honorary degree recipients, visit the Western News announcement at news.westernu.ca/2026/03/western-spring-honorary-degrees-2026.
