Prime Minister Stephen Harper has announced the appointment of David Johnston as Canada's governor general designate. Johnston, a respected lawyer and academic, will assume his new duties as governor general on Oct. 1. The appointment was announced last Thursday.
“Mr. Johnston has a strong record of public service, a broad base of support and an impressive list of achievements,” said Harper. “He has extensive legal expertise, a comprehensive understanding of government and a deep appreciation of the duties and tasks now before him.”
Currently serving as president & vice-chancellor of the University of Waterloo, Johnston has also served as president & vice-chancellor of McGill University and has held teaching positions at several prominent Canadian universities, including the University of Toronto, Queen’s University and the University of Western Ontario. He has published extensively and has served as chair, member or adviser to two dozen government agencies, boards and round tables.
"I was pleased to learn that David Johnston, a fellow academic colleague and friend, has been named as Canada’s newest governor general," said York President & Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri in a statement released Thursday. "Having known David for many years, I can attest that he is truly worthy of this prestigious position.
"David is recognized for being extremely wise and diplomatic, and will bring to this position a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise. He is a model leader of the academics who possesses an extensive legal background and solid understanding of government," said Shoukri. "He has always been passionate about serving Canada and its fellow citizens, and I am confident that he will bring this same enthusiasm as the new governor general.
"I am proud to call David a friend, and am grateful for his counsel and advice throughout the years. I wish him well as he takes on this exciting new role," said Shoukri.
The governor general designate was selected following extensive national consultations by an expert advisory committee.