Alan Earp, Brock's second and longest-serving President, has died at the age of 99.Brock University’s second and longest-serving President, Alan Earp, has died at the age of 99.
Earp, who died July 7 in Montreal, Que., led the University from 1974 to 1988 through a critical early period in the institution’s history. During his tenure, Brock experienced considerable growth that saw enrolment soar in the 1980s as the University developed a national reputation for excellence.
“The dedicated and visionary leadership of Dr. Earp helped lay the groundwork for Brock to become the comprehensive University it is today,” says Lesley Rigg, President and Vice-Chancellor. “His invaluable guidance through the University’s early days has impacted generations of learners and will continue to do so as Brock enters its next 60 years. We’re grateful for his lasting contributions.”
While Earp’s impact was clearly felt in academia, it was not the only field through which he made his mark.
Former Brock University Presidents Alan Earp, James Gibson and Terry White.
During the Second World War, Earp served as a lieutenant with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada, commanding the Pioneer Platoon in western Europe before being severely wounded in April 1945. The group continued to pay homage to Earp, who was the regiment’s last surviving officer from the Second World War, throughout his life.
Earp’s career in education saw him go on to hold several senior positions at educational institutions across Canada and abroad before joining Brock as Provost in 1968.
In 1987, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for his leadership and contributions to post-secondary education in Ontario and Canada, including serving as president of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada and the Canadian Bureau of International Education.
Brock honoured Earp for his meaningful impact by presenting him with an honorary doctorate in 1990. In 2000, the University named its then-newest campus residence building after him. The Alan Earp Residence, which opened in 2001, still bears his name today.
Brock University will lower its flags from Wednesday, July 31 to Friday Aug. 2 in Earp’s honour.
