Honorary degree citation - W. Earle McLaughlin*

By: Patrick Kenniff, November 1987

Mr. Chancellor, I have the honour to present to you W. Earle McLaughlin, an individual whose distinguished business career has gained the respect of all Canadians and whose efforts on behalf of this University have captured the affection of the entire Concordia community.

Educated in Economics and History at Queen's University, W. Earle McLaughlin joined the Royal Bank of Canada as an assistant accountant in 1936. By 1959, he was Assistant to the President and shortly thereafter became Chief Executive Officer. He held this position until his retirement in 1980, a remarkable record of 18 years as the head of one of Canada's major banking institutions. During this time, W. Earle McLaughlin earned an international reputation for honesty, forthrightness and keen business acumen. Since his retirement, these qualities have continued to benefit a large number of corporations on whose Boards he still enjoys membership.

W. Earle McLaughlin's professional career might well serve as a model for today's graduates. So too should his interest in, and dedication to post-secondary education.

From January 1982 until December 1986, W. Earle McLaughlin served this University as its Chancellor. He lent dignity to the ceremonial roles associated with the position of Chancellor, and was an active participant in numerous Board of Governors' committees. His deep concern for the future of our University led him to undertake a series of speaking engagements throughout North America. These appearances familiarized alumni and potential supporters of the University with the achievements and aspirations of Concordia, as well as with the details of its ongoing Capital Campaign.

In short, W. Earle McLaughlin was a Chancellor any university would have coveted, and one we are exceptionally proud to have been able to call our own.

Mr. Chancellor, it is a privilege to present to you, on behalf of the Senate and by the authority of the Board of Governors, W. Earle McLaughlin, so that you may confer on him the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.

* deceased