Two weeks ago Canada witnessed the swearing in of our new Governor General, (the Queen's representative) David Lloyd Johnston.
I shall miss Michaëlle Jean for I found her an attractive and effective Governor General. The government saw fit to not renew her appointment. She, like her predecessor, Adrienne Clarkson was an immigrant to Canada, Haiti and Hong Kong, respectively. They both came from a background in media, and as effective communicators put their stamp on the office.
Michaëlle Jean will go on to be a special representative for the United Nations to Haiti, where we all hope she can make a significant contribution to the relief work in that country that is still suffering from the effects of the earthquake.
David Lloyd Johnston has had a career as an academic and university administrator. He was most recently the president of Waterloo University. He is a northern boy who made good. He was born in Sudbury and raised in Sault Ste. Marie. His family were not well off and yet he got was able to study for his first degree at Harvard University. I suspect that besides being a bright student he got some scholarship help as a athlete, he captained the Harvard hockey team while there. Now after a remarkable career in academia and public service he will have an opportunity to service our country in this high office.
Besides having a remarkable academic career he is a loving family man, marrying his highschool sweetheart and raising six daughters, who have given him several grandchildren. He is not shy to express his great affection for his family. During the ceremony he and his wife where openly affectionate with each other and his grandchildren rode in the horse drawn carriage with him. They call him "Grampa book", I assume books are his constant companion. His is a lovely family.
He spoke at his swearing in ceremony of his view of his unique contribution during his tenure as Governor General. His address laid out in simple language is plan that very much reflects his life. He sees Canada as a "smart and caring Nation" which he would strengthen with a focus of his activities in three area, "To support families and children", "To reinforce learning and innovation" and " To encourage philanthropy and volunteerism". It is a lovely speech, straight forward with a personal touch. I encourage everyone to read it.
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Lloyd Johnston. Governor General of Canada.
All of Canada look forward to his tenure as Governor General. I expect this will be one more accomplishment in his life as he serves our country with distinction.