Allister Surette is a respected leader and executive with over 30 years of experience in education, politics, and governance. He has long been a champion of the Francophone and Acadian communities.
Born and raised in West Pubnico, Nova Scotia, Mr. Surette began his career as a science and mathematics teacher. In 1993, he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia, representing the riding of Argyle. During his political career, over the course of five years, he held a number of important portfolios, including Minister responsible for the Office of Acadian Affairs, Minister of Human Resources, and Deputy House Leader.
After leaving politics, Mr. Surette returned to the world of education, serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Collège de l’Acadie from 1998 to 2003. He then played a key role in the modernization and development of Université Sainte-Anne, where he served for eight years as Vice-President, Development and Partnerships. In 2011, he was appointed as the University’s President and Vice-Chancellor, a position he held until earlier this year.
Over the course of his career, Mr. Surette has chaired more than 10 boards and associations across Canada, including the Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse, the Western Regional Enterprise Network, the Organizing Committee for the Congrès mondial acadien 2024, the Canadian Foundation for Cross‑Cultural Dialogue, and the Association of Atlantic Universities. He has also served in various capacities on numerous other committees and boards.
In recognition of his contributions, Mr. Surette has received numerous awards, including the Ordre de la Pléiade (Commander) and the Léger-Comeau Certificate of Merit. He is also a member of the Ordre des francophones d’Amérique, Chevalier de l’Ordre des Palmes académiques, and an honorary member of the Executive Council of Nova Scotia.
Mr. Surette graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Education (Honours) from Saint Mary’s University.