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Senate speaker steps down 

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John O’Brien has retired as Speaker of Senate, a post he held with distinction for more than 11 years.

Originally a professor of economics at Sir George Williams University, he became Dean, then Vice-Principal Academic, and in 1969, Principal. Only 38, he was the youngest university head in Canada at the time. In 1974, when Concordia was created, he became the first Rector.

He was already retired from teaching when the post of Speaker of Senate was created in 1996, and his probity and dry wit made him the unanimous choice for the post.

He was warmly thanked for his many years of service to the university by Senate members on Dec. 14, and toasted at a reception held after the meeting. In recognition of his contribution as Speaker, five books will be placed in the Library in his name.

Donald Boisvert was elected to succeed him as Speaker until August 2008.