Lincoln Alexander ’49

Canada's first black MP, former Ontario lieutenant governor and McMaster alumnus Lincoln Alexander has died at the age of 90.

“To people across Hamilton, Ontario and Canada, Lincoln Alexander was a figure who was both symbol and substance of the values to which we all aspire. Here at McMaster, he holds a dear place in our hearts, as an alumnus, as the recipient of an honorary doctorate, and primarily as a friend of the university. He was a genuine person, both regal and humble, and we shall all miss him,” says McMaster President Patrick Deane.

First elected to the House of Commons in 1968, Alexander became Minister of Labour in 1979. He served as lieutenant governor from 1985 to 1991.

After serving as a corporal in the Canadian Forces, Alexander earned a degree in history and political economy from McMaster in 1949. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1953.

He was appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada and a Member of the Order of Ontario and was the recipient of many honorary degrees. Alexander also served as chancellor of the University of Guelph and as honorary chief of the Hamilton Police Service. He was inducted into McMaster’s Alumni Gallery in 1993.

In an interview with teacher, coach and administrator Les Prince, Alexander called attending McMaster “a wonderful experience.”