The flag at the University of Toronto’s Simcoe Hall has been lowered today, March 31, to honour the remarkable contributions of alumna Joan Johnston, SMC 6T8.
Appointed to the University of Toronto’s Governing Council in 2019, Johnston (nee Harrison) was one of the first women to serve on Collegium, St. Michael’s governing body, holding an appointment of alumni assessor for a term running from 1980 to 1983. She was a member of St. Michael’s Alumni Board from 1978 to 1986 and was elected President of U of T’s Alumni Association in 1983. She also shared her extensive talents with Sheridan College, where she served on the board for six years, including as Chair of the board.
Her extraordinary contributions to university life led to her being awarded an Arbor Award from U of T in 1991.
Predeceased by her husband Richard in 1993, Johnston’s impressive career included time as a vice president at Young & Rubicam, as a corporate manager at BMO, and a principal at Ernst and Young. In time, she started her own firm, J.M. Johnston & Associates.
The St. Michael’s community offers our condolences to Johnston’s family and expresses our gratitude for her generous sharing of her talents with the university. A candle will be lit in St. Basil’s Church in memory of Johnston and in gratitude for her service.