Peter James George (September 12, 1941 – April 27, 2017) was a Canadian academic and economist best known for his long tenure as President and Vice‑Chancellor of McMaster University. Born in Toronto, Ontario, he combined scholarship in economics with senior university leadership. He retired on June 30, 2010 after serving three consecutive five‑year terms and was the longest serving president in McMaster’s history.

Academic background and career

Trained as an economist, George developed a career that bridged teaching, research and administration. He was widely described as a scholar-administrator who retained an interest in economic issues while taking on progressively larger management responsibilities. Over decades he held academic appointments and administrative posts that prepared him for the role of university president.

Presidency at McMaster University

Peter George became President and Vice‑Chancellor of McMaster University in 1995. During his fifteen years in office he led the university through periods of campus development, growth in research activity, and efforts to strengthen ties with industry and the community in Hamilton. Colleagues and observers credited him with steady stewardship, advocacy for higher education, and pursuing initiatives to enhance the institution’s national and international standing.

Honours and recognition

In recognition of his service to higher education and the community, George received provincial and national honours. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada (CM) and held the provincial distinction of the Order of Ontario (O.Ont). These honours reflected both his scholarly contributions as an economist and his leadership in the public sphere.

Legacy and passing

Peter George stepped down as president in mid‑2010 and remained a respected figure in Canadian academic circles. He died of cancer at his home in Hamilton on April 27, 2017, at age 75. His tenure is often recalled for its length and for efforts to align McMaster’s academic mission with broader research and community goals.

Selected facts

  • Born: September 12, 1941, in Toronto.
  • President of McMaster University: 1995–June 30, 2010 (three five‑year terms).
  • Honours: Member of the Order of Canada (CM) and the Order of Ontario (O.Ont).
  • Professional identity: Canadian economist and university administrator.
  • Died: April 27, 2017, in Hamilton, of cancer.