Hamilton, Willis D.

Willis D. Hamilton
Professor Emeritus in Education
Convocation: October 17, 1993

Prof. Hamilton, who joined the University of New Brunswick faculty of education with the amalgamation of Teachers College in 1973, has had a distinguished teaching career.

From 1978 to 1993, he was responsible for the notable development of the Micmac-Maliseet Institute and contribution to the education of the First Nations people of New Brunswick and the Atlantic region. As a direct and immediate result of Prof. Hamilton's work, more than 80 First Nations students attained a bachelor of education degree and are actively guiding the young people of their communities in teaching, administrative and other leadership positions.

In addition, through the Bridging Year Program, which he conceived and implemented beginning in 1991, more than 50 First Nations students have now gained access to the university in all undergraduate faculties.

Prof. Hamilton has published extensively on Micmac history and genealogy and on the education of First Nations students in band-operated and provincial schools. His other contributions to First Nations education, to UNB and to the history of New Brunswick society are numerous.

He has also served on a number of provincial and federal committees dealing with the issues of native education.