Distinguished lawyer, trailblazing parliamentarian, and proud Acadia alum (’60, ’07), The Honourable Donald H. Oliver, CM, ONS, KC, LLD., passed away on September 17, 2025. His contributions to Acadia, to Canada, and to the pursuit of equity and justice will be remembered for generations. 

Donald Oliver was a man who wore many hats—and he wore them well. Throughout the 86 years of his life, he was a farmer, Cordon Bleu chef, lawyer, professor, author, businessman, and Senator. 

Across all of his work there is a clear throughline of his goal of promoting freedom and equity for all. From helping to draft legislation that was later enacted as part of the Human Rights Act as a law student, to devoting time to pro bono work for Black people and disadvantaged women seeking justice throughout his law career, he worked with an eye towards justice. 

In 1990, he made history as the first Black man appointed to the Senate of Canada, where he dedicated over two decades to advancing human rights, diversity, and opportunity. He was named to the Order of Canada and the Order of Nova Scotia in recognition of his tireless advocacy and leadership. 

Senator Oliver’s relationship with Acadia continued long after he graduated with his honours degree in history with a double minor in English and philosophy. The class of 1960 valedictorian received an honourary doctorate from Acadia in 2007 and the Clifford and Helena Oliver Bursary fund was established in 2015 by The Joyce Foundation in honour of Senator Oliver. These bursaries memorialize Senator Oliver’s parents Clifford and Helena (White) Oliver, who built their lives around Acadia University as employees and friends to many students, faculty and community members.  

"We are grateful to Don for the honour he brought to Acadia through his groundbreaking work in justice and equity. He was a brilliant and thoughtful person who cared deeply about Acadia and our students. It was most important to him that people knew who his parents were, and how hard they worked for students and their family. He will be missed,” said Nancy Handrigan (‘92), Vice-President, External Relations.  

To learn more about Senator Oliver’s life and legacy, read his full obituary. 

Funeral services will be held at New Horizons Baptist Church on September 27th, at 1 p.m., with Cruikshank's Funeral Home entrusted with the burial. At Don's request, in lieu of flowers, people may consider a donation to the Clifford and Helena Oliver Bursary Fund at Acadia University.