From left to right: Dr. Estella Atekwana, The Honourable Myra Freeman, Dr. Allen Eaves, Dr. Eldon R. Smith, Sir Cuthbert Montraville Sebastian, Charles McColough, Dr. Andy Knight, Sherry Porter, Dale Ells and Donald Hebb.
Posted: April 22, 2025
Dal’s notable alumni have achieved significant accomplishments and are well-known in their respective professional and personal lives.
These esteemed individuals have distinguished themselves through their achievements, leadership and contributions to society. They are widely recognized and respected in their professions or through their endeavours.Ìý
Ten individuals were added in March 2025.Ìý We are proud to introduce them here, and showcase the complete list of notable alumni of Â鶹´«Ã½.
Agriculture
Raised on a dairy farm,ÌýSherry PorterÌý(Agriculture Class of ’75) has had an extensive career in the agricultural sector. She is an influential community builder, supporting numerous cultural, educational and health care not-for-profits. Sherry was on Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s Board of Governors for 10 years, serving as vice chair on three occasions.
Dale EllsÌý(1939 – 2025) (BScAg’59, LLD’11) led a life of service, tirelessly supporting community and professional organizations. For 28 years he was a senior administrator at Nova Scotia Agricultural College as Dean of Vocational and Technical Education. He was also an Associate Professor of Economics and Business, and Director of NSAC’s Centre for International Development. 
Business, industry and innovation
Charles McColough (1922 – 2006) (LLB’47, LLD’70) served as the chief executive officer and chair of the Xerox Corporation for 14 years. He was treasurer for the Democratic National Committee, chaired United Way America, and is namesake of the C. Peter McColough Roundtable Series on International Economics.
Health and medicineÌý
Dr. Allen EavesÌý(MSc’67, MD’69) has had a distinguished 50+ year scientific career in the biotechnology industry and is renowned for his global impact on cancer research and treatment.
A former professor emeritus in Dal’s Department of Psychology,ÌýDonald HebbÌý(1904 – 1985) (BEng’49) did pioneering work in neuropsychology and psychology. His research sought to understand the development of neurons into networks and how this contributes to psychological processes such as learning.
Dr. Eldon R. SmithÌý(MD’67, LLD’14) has dedicated his life to improving the heart health of Canadians and is one of Canada’s pre-eminent academic cardiologists, earning widespread recognition for his research into hypertension and cardiac failure.
Public service
A former teacher with a lifelong commitment to community service, the HonourableÌýMyra FreemanÌý(BA’70, BED’71, LLD’11) made history as the first female vice-regent in 400 years when was appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia in 2000.
Dr. Andy KnightÌý(MA’86) is a scholar, political scientist, international rights expert and historian. He is also a world leader in the study of international organizations, global governance, and human security.
Sir Cuthbert Montraville Sebastian (1921 – 2017) (MD’58, LLD’98) devoted his entire life to serving others, as a soldier, doctor, and politician. He was governor general of his native Saint Christopher and Nevis, focused on the liberation, enlightenment and advancement of its people.
Science and computer science
Dr. Estella AtekwanaÌý(PhD’91) is an academic leader recognized as a founder of the field of biogeophysics, which uses the tools of geophysics to investigate interactions of microbes and geological materials, particularly in subsurface environments.