SACKVILLE, NB — Mount Allison University will formally install George L. Cooper, KC (’89) as its 10th Chancellor during a special Chancellor’s Installation and Investiture Ceremony on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 4 p.m. in Convocation Hall. A reception will follow in the Convocation Hall foyer. 

The ceremony marks the official conferring of the Chancellor, including the oath of office, celebrating Cooper’s leadership and longstanding connection to the University. 

The entire Mount Allison community as well as members of the wider public are warmly invited to attend.  

“George Cooper brings to the Chancellorship a remarkable combination of intellectual rigour, humility, and deep loyalty to Mount Allison,” says  Cheryl Hodder, KC (’81).“ His leadership reflects the very values we seek to instill in our students — integrity, service, and principled action — and his lifelong commitment to Mount Allison and to community leadership make him an exceptional choice to serve as our 10th Chancellor.” 

The ceremony will feature remarks from the Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Internal Trade and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy, whose distinguished career in public service includes senior federal cabinet roles and longstanding advocacy for Atlantic Canada. His participation reflects the broader regional and national stature, importance, and impact of Mount Allison. 

A proud Mount Allison alumnus, Chancellor Cooper graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in 1989 before earning a law degree from the University of New Brunswick and a Master of Laws from the University of Cambridge, U.K. He has built a distinguished legal career and currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Partner at Cox & Palmer, one of Atlantic Canada’s leading law firms. 

Cooper officially began his four-year term as Chancellor on January 1, 2026. The Chancellor serves as the University’s titular head, presiding over Convocation, acting as an ambassador for the institution, and supporting its mission of academic excellence and community engagement. 

“Installation ceremonies are moments when a university both honours its traditions and looks ahead,” says Dr. Ian Sutherland, President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Allison University. “George Cooper’s appointment symbolizes our commitment to academic excellence, while also reinforcing our ambition to prepare graduates who lead thoughtfully in complex times. His wisdom, generosity, and steady leadership will serve our community well.” 

Mount Allison extends its gratitude to outgoing Chancellor Lynn Loewen (’82) for her dedicated service since 2018 and looks forward to celebrating this new chapter in the University’s history with the installation of Chancellor Cooper.