David Smith (’66) graduated from Acadia with a Bachelor of Commerce before studying law at UNB. After completing his LLB, he was called to the New Brunswick bar in 1971 and was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1985. He served as a judge of the Family Division from 1993-98, at which point he was appointed Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench.

Smith is a former member of the New Brunswick Parole Board and has held various leadership positions in the Canadian Bar Association, NB Chapter. He has been active in the New Brunswick YMCA , the Moncton Airport Board, the Rotary Club, Resurgo Inc., and the United Way. Among his many other affiliations, he was a director of Canadair Limited, Marine Atlantic Inc., and Junior Achievement.

David has been credited for guiding the revitalization of downtown Moncton, including the acquisition and restoration of a theatre that houses the Live Performing Arts Centre for Greater Moncton. He is currently involved in planning for two state-of- the-art courthouses. 

“I actually chose Acadia because my older brother and sister enjoyed their times there. I remember a philosophy professor from Montreal who was teaching logic. He explained some of the natural steps of something becoming illegal: first was unhealthy, then immoral, and then illegal. I also fondly remember Seymour Hamilton, who gave me a lasting appreciation of English literature in an English 101 class.

“One of my fondest memories of Acadia was McConnell Dining Hall, not necessarily for the high quality of the meals, but for the camaraderie and discussions promoted by eating as a group.

“Acadia provides a unique small-town university experience in that beautiful Annapolis Valley setting, with the best teaching staff found anywhere. I really think it should be the top choice for any high school graduate who is seeking a university degree that is nationally recognized and highly prized.”