Ottawa, Ontario, 8 July 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today welcomed the appointment of David Johnston as the Governor General Designate. Mr. Johnston, a respected lawyer and academic, will assume his new duties as Governor General on October 1.

“Mr. Johnston has a strong record of public service, a broad base of support and an impressive list of achievements,” said Prime Minister 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 and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waterloo, Mr. Johnston has also served as President and 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 advisor to two dozen government agencies, boards and roundtables.

“David Johnston represents the best of Canada,” said the Prime Minister. “He represents hard work, dedication, public service and humility. I am confident he will continue to embody these traits in his new role as the Crown’s representative in Canada.”

The Governor General Designate was selected following extensive national consultations by an expert advisory committee. His exemplary record of public service has earned him the respect, support and admiration of many prominent Canadians in politics, government, academia, parties of all stripes, and in every region of the country.

Mr. Johnston resides outside of Waterloo, Ontario. He is married to Dr. Sharon Johnston. They have five children and seven grandchildren.

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