John Rae, Arts’67, studied politics and economics at Queen’s and was also the editor of the Queen’s Journal. Mr. Rae’s first job after graduating from Queen’s was Executive Assistant to a young MP (and future prime minister) named Jean Chrétien. He was the chairman for Mr. Chrétien’s 1984 and 1990 leadership campaigns, and coordinated the Liberal Party’s national campaigns in the 1993, 1997, and 2000 federal elections.
In 1971, Mr. Rae joined Power Corporation of Canada as an Executive Assistant to the Chairman and CEO. In 1991, after several promotions, he was appointed as Executive Vice-President. In addition to his position with Power Corporation, Mr. Rae holds directorships of BNP-Paribas (Canada), Fednav Limited, McGill University Health Centre Foundation, and the Montreal Heart Institute Foundation.
In 2006, Mr. Rae was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada, in recognition of his visionary leadership and work in his community.
Despite his busy life, Mr. Rae’s connection to Queen’s has never wavered. It is that spirit that has seen him volunteer and give back in many different ways – from serving as a member and chair of the Board of Trustees, helping with fundraising campaigns and currently being on the cabinet of the Initiative Campaign. Through his support of student financial assistance, the new Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, and the J.A Corry Trust, Mr. Rae has enhanced our students’ learning experiences.
In November 2013, Mr. Rae received the John Orr Award from the Toronto Branch of the Queen’s University Alumni Association in recognition of his dedication and support of the Queen’s community. He is truly one of the many Queen’s thinkers and doers making a difference in the world today.
