Three-time Olympic gold medalist Marie-Philip Poulin reached another big milestone. The Canadian center received an honorary doctorate in civil law from Bishop's University.

Poulin, who recently led the Montreal Victoire to a Walter Cup win over the Ottawa Charge, received the honor during Bishop’s University convocation on Saturday.

The university praised her as a symbol of excellence, leadership, humility, and community spirit.

“Marie-Philip Poulin embodies values that are deeply aligned with the Bishop’s experience: excellence, leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to community,” said vice-chancellor Sébastien Lebel-Grenier, per CBC Radio-Canada.

Poulin noted the moment was emotional for her. The 35-year-old shared that growing up in Beauceville, she never thought she would receive such a special honor.

“Receiving an honorary doctorate is something I never imagined when I was a kid… with a hockey stick in my hand and a dream in my head,” she said.

Even in celebration, she stayed grounded, stating that hockey taught her discipline and competitiveness. Most importantly, it prompted her to be a good teammate.

“It’s important to be a great teammate," she stated.

Poulin also highlights the leadership mindset that has guided her through Olympic and league success. She has been a clutch player throughout her career, scoring the winning goal in three out of five Olympic finals.

The award adds another honor to Captain Clutch's already successful career.

Poulin Champions Leadership Beyond the Ice

Marie-Philip Poulin used her convocation speech to motivate graduates to think beyond success and focus on their individuality.

She encouraged them to chase excellence and dream big, reminding them that their demeanor towards others will always matter.

“Success matters. Achievement matters. But the way you treat people along the way matters way more,” she said.

In the PWHL, Marie-Philip Poulin has been a key player, scoring 18 points in 19 games for the Montreal Victoire.

On the international stage, she has performed strongly for Canada. With her game-winning goal at the 2021 IIHF Women's World Championship, Poulin completed the "golden goal hat-trick."

As for recent events, she finished the 2026 Winter Olympics with a silver medal and four points in five games.

From medals to titles and an honorary doctorate, Poulin’s career is a mix of excellence and impact beyond the ice.

What are your thoughts on Pulin? How will her leadership help future women’s hockey players around the world? Comment down below.

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul