TORONTO – Former Baywatch star and Playboy model Pamela Anderson could be bestowed with an honourary degree from the University of Victoria.
The 45-year-old, who was born in Ladysmith – about an hour north of the British Columbia capital – may be nominated as a candidate for the distinction.
Anderson said she is excited by the thought of being recognized with an honourary degree from the School of Environmental Studies.
“UVIC is where I would have loved to attend university,” she said in a statement. “My family is hoping it comes true.”
Anderson has not yet been nominated and the university does not comment on potential candidates.
Anderson said she is hopeful her bombshell reputation doesn’t overshadow her advocacy work during the nomination process.
“People often perceive me a little different than reality,” she admitted. “A majority of my work has been in animal rights, protecting the environment and children, trying to use my image and abilities to speak on behalf of human rights and AIDS education worldwide.”
Anderson has received letters in support of her nomination from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, environmental group Inga Foundation and Haitian relief organization J/P HRO.
Fashion designer Vivienne Westwood wrote: “Pamela is a world-wide woman celebrity who at every opportunity uses her status to help make the world a better place. She is … a credit to her country, an ambassador for the responsibility we owe to each other, to all living creatures and to the world.”
Canadian director Avi Lewis praised Anderson as a “dedicated protector of the B.C. coast.”
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to note that Anderson has not yet been nominated.
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