On Jan. 15, 2022, the Dal alumni community was deeply saddened by the news alumna Dr. Alexa McDonough, (BA’65, MSW’67, LLD’09 ) died after a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alexa, the former leader of the federal and Nova Scotian NDP, and the first woman to lead a major political party in Canada, was a trailblazer who inspired us with her deep and enduring commitment to social justice and public service. Her legacy with Dalhousie also includes serving as a faculty member at the Maritime School of Social Work.

The many in our community who had the privilege of knowing Alexa mourn alongside her many friends and sons Justin and Travis McDonough (BScK’94) and their families.

Flags on campus were lowered in her honour.