Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. to Speak at SUNY Plattsburgh

Part of the Distinguished Canadian Address program, his talk, titled "Canada and the United States: Partners in Economic Prosperity and North American Security," will cover information on the closeness of the Canada-U.S. relationship in terms of security and commerce, particularly in the post 9/11 era. It will deal with how each nation is in lockstep in terms of border security and the free-flow of goods, as well as investment across the border. Wilson is likely to hold this relationship up as a role model for the rest of the international community, according to Christopher Kirkey, director of the Center for the Study of Canada

In addition, the address will offer a chance for attendees to gain greater perspective on matters of significance to residents of both countries.

"This is an opportunity to have an inside view from the Canadian perspective on issues that are important to Canada and issues that matter to the North Country and to SUNY Plattsburgh," said Kirkey.

The Distinguished Canadian Address is a regular event at the college. Sponsored by the Development Corporation of Clinton County, it recognizes select individuals who have made a profoundly positive contribution to Canadian public life.  Honorees in this program have included the Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Kergin and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada Beverley McLachlin.

"The reason we do the address is to recognize Canadians who've made exemplary contributions to public life, and Michael Wilson, as ambassador, fits that bill in a decidedly outstanding manner," said Kirkey. "He's been a wonderful ambassador. He's done nothing but work to enhance the Canadian-U.S. relationship and has been a decidedly positive force."

Wilson was appointed ambassador to the United States in 2006. Prior to that, he served as chairman of UBS Canada, an operating division of UBS AG, one of the world's leading financial institutions. He also has worked for the RBC Financial Group and as vice chairman of RBC Dominion Securities. In addition, he has held directorships at number of companies including BP PLC and Manulife Financial.

Wilson has a long record of public service, having been elected to the Canadian House of Commons in '79 and appointed Canadian Minister of Finance, a position he retained from '84 until '91, in addition to serving as Minister for International Trade and Minister of Industry, Science and Technology.

Active in a number of professional and community organizations, Wilson belongs to the Neuroscience Canada Partnership, The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships and the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance. Mr. Wilson is an officer of the Order of Canada and has honorary degrees from the University of Toronto and York University.

Because of the limited seating, this event is by invitation only.