Michael Meighen began his association with McGill as a student more than half a century ago, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1960. In a recent interview, he shared happy recollections of those days.
“When I arrived at McGill, I was much like any other student discovering university life, seeking out the classes, students and extra-curricular activities that piqued my interest. I played squash at the Sir Arthur Currie gym, joined the Debating Union, somehow got the job of crowd control at the Winter Carnival, and wore my Scarlet Key sweater coat with pride.”
Raised in a family with a long history in both law and politics, Meighen followed the path of his father and grandfather – Arthur Meighen, Canada’s ninth Prime Minister.
“McGill was where my studies and my interest in politics intersected and flourished. I majored in political science and history. At the same time, I became involved in student government, the nascent National Federation of University Students and the McGill Conference on World Affairs that featured then Prime Minister Lester Pearson as a speaker. Everywhere on campus it seemed that change was not just possible but inevitable and that, by working together, we could make a difference.”
After graduating from McGill, Meighen went on to earn a law degree from Université Laval and embarked on a long and distinguished career in law, politics and public service. He was co-counsel to the Deschênes Commission of Inquiry on War Criminals in Canada from 1985 to 1987, and served in the Senate of Canada for more than 21 years. In 2014, he was named a Member of the Order of Canada for his contributions to public life.
That same year, he was named McGill’s 19th Chancellor. As the University’s titular head, the Chancellor presides over Convocation and is its representative at official functions.
Over the years, Meighen has remained a loyal and committed McGill volunteer. He served on the Board of Governors, where he chaired the McGill Fund Council and the Campaign Steering Committee. As co-chair of Campaign McGill: History in the Making, Meighen encouraged alumni and friends to support the University, and set a remarkable example with a $5-million gift to help launch the Campaign. He is also an active participant in McGill activities in the Toronto region, and he and his wife, Kelly, have hosted McGill alumni and parents for special events in their home.
Pondering the pivotal role McGill has played in his life, Meighen says: “There’s no doubt that the education and experience I received at McGill helped set the course for my generation, shaping our perspective on the key issues facing our country, and inspiring us to dedicate our efforts in support of positive change. I’m proud to say that today’s students manifest that same commitment. The challenge for us now is to lead change once again by supporting this next generation and fostering their ability and desire to make a difference. There’s no doubt that they are up to the challenge.”