Building on a Legacy
By John-Paul Bonadonna
Dwight Duncan (BA '84, MBA '89) celebrated his installation as chancellor during the Spring 2025 convocation ceremonies. | Photo by John-Paul Bonadonna.
With a legacy rooted in public service and higher education, Duncan steps into the ceremonial role of conferring degrees and inspiring UWindsor graduates.
The University of Windsor community marked a historic moment at Spring Convocation as alumnus Dwight Duncan was officially installed as the institution’s ninth chancellor.
A respected leader in politics, business and community service, Duncan now takes on the ceremonial and symbolic role of conferring degrees, inspiring graduates and representing the University locally, nationally and beyond.
“What an honour to be appointed chancellor of the University of Windsor,” Duncan said at his installation.
“My close and ongoing affiliation with the school dates back 46 years, and I am humbled knowing that I will be succeeding Mary Jo Haddad, Ed Lumley, Richard Rohmer and the other outstanding individuals who have filled this role.”
Duncan’s appointment follows the six-year tenure of Dr. Haddad.
The role of chancellor, while ceremonial, holds significant meaning. As the titular head of the University, the chancellor presides over convocation, conferring degrees and diplomas on behalf of the Senate and serves as an ambassador for the institution at official functions.
“I look forward to working with our students, faculty and the entire community as we move forward with confidence to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future,” said Duncan.
For Duncan, his deep ties to the University make this new chapter a personal one.
He earned both a Bachelor of Arts in economics (1984) and a Master of Business Administration (1989) and in 2013, the University awarded him an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his service to the province and his commitment to higher education.
"I’m hopeful and confident that my experience will positively impact our relationships with not only stakeholders within the University but the broader community."
Dwight Duncan
Dwight Duncan addresses attendees of the Chancellor's Breakfast. | Photo by Photo by Michael Wilkins.
Duncan is best known for his 18 years of service as a Windsor-area Member of Provincial Parliament. His leadership helped shape policy on energy, healthcare and infrastructure. He was a central figure in Ontario’s economic recovery strategies during the global financial crisis.
Duncan is currently senior advisor for Canadian investor relations with the New York-based law firm Bernstein, Litowitz, Berger and Grossmann.
His broad experience across sectors uniquely positions him to bring a wide lens to the University’s ongoing mission of innovation, community engagement and student success.
The transition from Haddad to Duncan reflects both continuity and renewal.
Haddad championed community-building through initiatives such as the Chancellor’s Leadership Series, which engaged national leaders in dialogue around leadership, innovation, sustainability and diversity.
Duncan has expressed his commitment to continuing this focus on mentorship, advocacy and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
“I’m hopeful and confident that my experience will positively impact our relationships with not only stakeholders within the University but the broader community,” said Duncan.
“I look forward to serving as a trusted advisor to the University.”
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