The name's Moore - Dr. Moore.
Roger Moore, the actor known for playing secret agent 007 James Bond, was honoured Friday not for his film and TV work, but his real-life role as a humanitarian and advocate of children's rights.
He received an honourary Doctor of Laws degree from Ryerson.
The 71-year-old Moore is UNICEF's goodwill ambassador.
"When I first heard I was going to be the recipient of this honour, I was petrified ... not knowing what to say," Moore said.
The dignified and charismatic British actor has been actively involved with UNICEF since 1990. He was introduced to the children's charity by his late friend, screen legend Audrey Hepburn.
When he saw the sad and happy faces of disadvantaged and underpriviledged children, he knew that helping them would be his dedication, too.
He said he would never forget the words that a nun in the Far East told him.
"Isn't it sad that the media pays so much attention to the plight of the rainforests? What's the use of a rainforest if there are no children to live in them?"
Moore's speech was the talk of the reception that followed.
"He gave a very inspirational and moving speech," said film studies graduate Doug Whiffen.
Although some people have mixed feelings about celebrities receiving honourary degrees, it was clear Moore's speech resonated with this fall's graduating class.
"Some celebrities are more deserving than others," said business communications graduate Bill Zouboulakis. "He is a great inspiration to everyone, especially for his humanitarian work."
