COU statement on the death of former COU President and Chair and McMaster University President Peter George

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Peter James George, who served as President of the Council of Ontario Universities (COU) from 1991 to 1995 and who also served three terms as President and Vice-Chancellor of McMaster University before retiring in 2010. He was also a long-standing member of COU’s Executive Committee, including two years as Chair, from 2007 to 2009.

Photo of Peter George in his office at McMaster University

Dr. George’s numerous contributions to postsecondary education in Ontario and his leadership role within COU were invaluable. He was well-respected, appreciated and admired by his colleagues, who recognized the effort and dedication behind his actions, as well as his wry, self-deprecating sense of humour that always put others at ease.

His contribution to Ontario in his role as McMaster’s longest-serving President is evident. Under his leadership, McMaster became one of the leading research universities in Canada, with an excellent reputation here and abroad.

On behalf of the university community and those who have had the pleasure of working with him, I offer our deepest condolences to Peter’s family and friends. Peter was a dear friend and colleague who inspired so many through the course of his career. He will be greatly missed.”

David Lindsay
President and CEO
Council of Ontario Universities

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COU is the voice of Ontario’s universities, promoting the value of education, research and innovation that leads to social, cultural and economic success.

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For further information, please contact:

Wendy McCann
Senior Director, Communications
Council of Ontario Universities
416-979-2165 x233
416-473-4829 (cell)
Email Wendy McCann