Posted: November 14, 2025
Clockwise from left to right: Leslie McLean, Kishore Mahbubani, Budge Marjorie Wilson, Dr. Peter Nicholson, Dr. Don Hill, John McLeish.
ĢAV’s notable alumni are recognized for leadership and impact across fields.
In November 2025, six distinguished individuals were added, including leaders in creative writing, cardiology, personal injury law, nursing advocacy and international diplomacy. Their achievements continue to inspire and shape communities.
Arts and media
Prolific author(BA’49, DED’53, LLD’10) (1927–2021) wrote more than 30 books in her life. In 2025, she was recognized by Bookmark Canada, which made her part of the CanLit trail by next to Sherriff Hall, where Wilson lived as a Dal undergrad. The Dal Archives proudly holds her personal papers.
Law and justice/social justice
John McLeish(LLB’73) is an acclaimed personal injury lawyer who has also authored or co-authored five books on personal injury, wrongful death and trial advocacy.
Health and medicine
Dr. J. Donald “Don” Hill (MD’60, LLD’87) is a renowned cardiac surgeon and innovator of mechanical circulatory support devices. He received ĢAV’s 2025 Golden Eagle Lifetime Achievement Award.
Leslie McLean(MN’02) is a clinical practitioner and longstanding champion for the nursing profession, adjunct professor at ĢAV, committed volunteer and philanthropist.
Public Service
Kishore Mahbubani (MA’76, LLD’95) is a Singaporean diplomat and geopolitical consultant who served as Singapore Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and President of the United Nations Security Council.
Dr. Peter Nicholson (BSc’64, MSc’65, LLD’95) has held leadership roles in industry, government and academia. From 2003 to 2006, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy in the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada.