A leader of service: honouring UCC’s 16th principal Eric Barton ’57, 1938–2021

Mr. Barton’s lifelong connection to the school began with his time as a student. A McHugh’s steward, he played football, hockey and cricket, and was a recipient of the Herbert Mason Medal. As principal, his most cherished of many achievements was the establishment of a community service program of global service trips — particularly groundbreaking for the time. In later years, Mr. Barton remained a loyal champion of the school, as a member of the Board of Governors and the Think Ahead Campaign Council, and as a UCC grandparent. 

Continuing his legacy at the College, the annual Barton Service Lecture connects our community with our service value, and reinforces the importance of making the world a better place, one act at a time. Mr. Barton was a consummate example of empathy and compassion, spending 30 years on missions across the globe, leading efforts to alleviate poverty and reduce disease. He was named to the Order of Canada in 1995 and was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. 

Mr. Barton’s obituary can be found here. The flags on campus are at half-mast to honour his dedication to the College. If you wish to share a remembrance with Mr. Barton's family, please email principal@ucc.on.ca.