Knox College announces the recipients for the degree Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) for 2026
Principal Ernest van Eck and the Knox College Board of Governors are pleased to announce that The Rev. Zoltan Vass and Lloyd Robertson have been named recipients of the Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) degree for 2026. The degrees will be conferred at Knox College’s Convocation service on May 13 at 2:00 p.m. in the Knox College Chapel.
The Rev. Zoltan Vass
The Rev. Zoltan Vass’ ministry, spanning more than four decades, has been marked by steadfast leadership, vision, and deep commitment to the Hungarian Reformed diaspora in North America. Ordained in Hungary in 1981, he began his pastoral service in Uilacu de Criș before continuing his theological education across Europe and North America, including studies at Princeton
Theological Seminary and the Toronto School of Theology. Since arriving in North America in 1987, he has served congregations in both the United States and Canada, and since 1994 has faithfully led the First Hungarian Reformed Church of Toronto. His ministry has extended beyond a single congregation, offering leadership and support to Hungarian communities in Oshawa, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and beyond.
Zoltan’s pastoral work reflects both dedication and innovation. He has been instrumental in organizing major church events across the continent, including celebrations marking the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. His leadership has also guided significant transitions, such as overseeing the sale and redevelopment of his congregation’s church property into a renewed and modern worship space. In addition to his preaching and pastoral care, he has contributed to radio ministry, theological writing, and the strengthening of Hungarian Presbyterian identity through the establishment of a Diaspora Mission Centre in Toronto.
His service within the Presbyterian Church in Canada has been equally impactful. A respected member of both the West and East Toronto Presbyteries, Zoltan has served on numerous committees and as Interim Moderator in several congregations. Known for his thoughtful leadership style, he combines careful listening with a clear sense of purpose, helping guide churches through times of change and discernment. His contributions to student formation through the Student and Education Committee reflect his ongoing commitment to nurturing future leaders in ministry.
Rev. Vass’s enduring influence is seen in his tireless service, his ability to bring vision into reality, and his faithful care for congregations across cultural and geographic boundaries. His legacy is one of dedication, resilience, and creative leadership in the life of the church.
Lloyd Robertson
Lloyd Robertson’s distinguished career in broadcasting, spanning more than four decades, has been marked by integrity, clarity, and a deep sense of public responsibility. Raised in Stratford, Ontario, he once considered the call to ordained ministry before discerning a different vocation—serving the wider public through journalism. As chief anchor of national news on both CBC and later CTV, as well as host of programs such as W5 and coverage of major national and international events including the Olympic Games, Lloyd became one of Canada’s most trusted and recognizable voices, bringing insight and steadiness to generations of viewers.
Lloyd’s commitment to the church paralleled his public life. During the 1970s and 1980s, he contributed regularly as a monthly columnist for the Presbyterian Record, offering thoughtful reflections on the intersection of faith and society. His writing was widely appreciated for its clarity, balance, and relevance, and he further supported the publication through his service on the Record Committee, helping guide its editorial direction during a significant period in its history. Through these contributions, he demonstrated a meaningful scholarly and reflective engagement with the life of the church.
Beyond his visible roles, Lloyd has quietly supported numerous charitable causes in both church and community. Together with his wife Nancy, he established the Lloyd and Nancy Robertson Youth Initiative Fund to encourage and assist young people in Stratford, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing future generations. His long-standing membership at Unionville Presbyterian Church in Markham has been another expression of his faith, where he has contributed his wisdom and presence within the life of the congregation.
Lloyd Robertson’s life and work exemplify faithful service in both church and society. Through his thoughtful engagement with public life, his contributions to the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and his enduring commitment to community, he has embodied the values of integrity, compassion, and leadership. His legacy stands as a testament to the many ways in which faith can shape and enrich public vocation.