Sinclair named Queen’s University chancellor

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This article was published 28/04/2021 (701 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Retired Manitoba senator Murray Sinclair has been named the 15th chancellor of Queen’s University.

Sinclair, whose resumé includes leading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, a stint (2016-21) in the Senate, and an extensive legal career, will assume the head ceremonial position July 1.

“As Queen’s pursues a strategic vision that embraces social impact, I cannot think of anyone better suited to advise us on that course than (Sinclair), one of Canada’s most significant advocates for Indigenous peoples,” said Patrick Deane, principal and vice-chancellor, in a Wednesday announcement posted to the Kingston, Ont., school’s website.

The announcement touted Sinclair’s impressive accomplishments as a lawyer, judge and advocate for Indigenous people in Canada.

Sinclair, who is Anishinaabe and a member of the Peguis First Nation, grew up north of Selkirk. He graduated from law school at the University of Manitoba in 1979, and would later become the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba.

Earlier this year, the 70-year-old retired from the Senate in order to dedicate more time to writing his memoir and working as a legal mentor on issues involving Indigenous law.

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He currently serves as general counsel with Cochrane Saxberg LLP, an Indigenous advocacy law firm in Manitoba, and is a fourth degree chief of the Midewiwin, a traditional healing and spiritual society of the Anishinaabe Nation responsible for protecting teachings, ceremonies, laws, and history.

“Joining Queen’s University at this time is an important opportunity to recognize the change in this institution and the work we do together for future generations of students,” the chancellor-designate said in a prepared release.

Before undertaking the search for the school’s 15th chancellor, an advisory committee created a list of desired attributes to be held by the next person to become the highest officer of Queen’s.

Among them: demonstrated commitment to equity, reconciliation, and environmental sustainability; character traits of leadership, humility, and ethical integrity; and an individual who is both nationally and internationally esteemed.

Sinclair has received honorary doctorates from 14 universities, including Queen’s.