Thomas S. Axworthy

Thomas Axworthy’s 1968 Bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science served as a foundation for an international career encompassing politics, writing, international relations, and heritage.

Axworthy’s early experience as Principal Secretary to former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau led to a residency at the Harvard Institute of Politics, followed by teaching positions at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, and the government department at Harvard University.

Axworthy, who was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for his service in the field of history and heritage, believes passionately in the value of knowing our history.  He works as Executive Director of Historica, an organization responsible for Canadian television’s Heritage Minutes, educational resources like the digital version of Canadian Encyclopedia, and unique history programming for the classroom.

Axworthy’s position as Chair of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada speaks to his commitment to Canada’s future, as does his membership on the Board of the Pearson College, an environmental organization called the Harmony Foundation, and Canada World Youth. “You have to give something back,” says the recipient of the June 2003 University of Winnipeg Distinguished Alumni Award.