Meet Brian R. Johnston: Dalhousie Alumni Association president, thoracic surgeon, father to a Dal alumna (Emma) and current Dal Commerce student (Adam), husband to Lisa (BSc ’88, BScOT ’91), mentor and community leader. As the current leader of the DAA, Dr. Johnston and the board work to forge relationships and connections between alumni and their alma mater for a stronger Dal. He is one of the many Dal volunteers who help strengthen the university through his commitment and dedication.   

On his motivation to get involved…  

After a period of not volunteering, I wanted to get back into it and give back in a meaningful way. At the same time, I got excited about the sense of community that past president [President Emeritus] Richard Florizone was creating at Dalhousie. That was back in 2017. At the time my daughter Emma (BSc’19) was studying Medical Sciences so I was spending more time back on campus and could see growth and change happening. Eventually I joined the DAA and have been in various roles over the last few years.  

On the best part of volunteering…  

It’s definitely the chance to meet people who are working within Dal and other alumni whom I normally wouldn’t have a chance to meet or connect with. That’s been a highlight for me.  

On how volunteerism has helped him learn new things… 

As the vice-president and president of the DAA you also become a member of the Board of Governors—an area I was very interested in getting involved with and learning more about. The Board of Governors is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the university, financials, facilities, all of which are completely outside my wheelhouse as a surgeon. It’s been a huge learning experience to gain insight into these areas and a better understanding of the work of the university.  

On his family’s connection to Dal… 

I’m proud of my family’s strong ties to the university. It started with my aunt who was the first person in my Dad’s family to go to university. My Dad actually facilitated her being able to do so. After that myself, my sister and several cousins came here. Now we are into the third generation with my two children along with two other family members.  

On how alumni can get involved… 

I think that everybody wants to feel a sense of community and there are many ways to do that as a Dal alumnus. Don’t miss out on opportunities that are available and open to community like educational events, performances through the Fountain School of Performing Arts and Open Dialogue, to name a few. Open Dialogue is a great way to stay connected and see what’s happening at Dal. Even if you’re not in the city you can still access these offerings remotely.  

Read more about the DAA and meet the members.  

Get involved today. Learn more about volunteering at Dal.