By CBC News

A valedictory address that criticized the University of Winnipeg for bestowing an honorary degree on Manitoba Conservative MP Vic Toews has caused ripples in the community.

Valedictorian Erin Larson used her speech at the fall convocation on Sunday to say the choice compromised the university's integrity, although she didn't name Toews directly.

"I'm extremely honoured to be selected as the valedictorian [but] I have to admit I'm not proud to share the stage with everybody that is on it today," Larson said, as Toews, the federal public safety minister, sat nearby looking uncomfortable.

About 40 people had gathered outside the university Sunday afternoon to protest against the honorary degree, holding placards condemning Toews for public statements he has made about crime, immigration and same-sex marriage.

After the ceremony, U of W president Lloyd Axworthy said he was disappointed the valedictory address was used to make a political statement.

However, a political science professor at the university told CBC News on Monday that convocation is just the place to make political statements. Prof. Shannon Sampert said Larson should be applauded for what she did.

"I think, frankly, a student like that, who can stand up in the face of all this kind of authority and all this kind of pomp and circumstance and dignity and actually speak her mind, I think that we should be supporting the student," Sampert said.

Read more.

Do you agree with what Larson did? Should valedictorians be able to use their speeches to make a political statement? Let us know.