2012 Warren Jestin, BA '71, MA '71

Dr. Warren Jestin (BA ’71, MA ’71) is Scotiabank’s Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President, and has been with the bank since 1979. Before joining Scotiabank, he spent a number of years working in the Research Department at the Bank of Canada and teaching in the economics departments of several Canadian universities. He earned a Master’s degree in Economics at the University of Guelph in 1971 and was awarded his doctorate from the University of Toronto in 1977.

Dr. Jestin is a committed supporter of the University of Guelph and many philanthropic organizations. He is currently a member of the U of G Board and Trustees and served on the U of G Board of Governors from 1997-2003. He has served on the board of the University of Guelph Heritage Fund, and as Chair of the Advisory Board for the College of Management and Economics (CME). In addition, he has contributed to several scholarships offered by the Department of Economics and Finance, such as the Warren Jestin Scholarship in Canadian Economic Policy. This scholarship is awarded annually to the economics student with the highest cumulative average over all courses in economic policy. Dr. Jestin is involved with CME through its Economists and Financiers in Residence program.

Dr. Jestin is a member of the C.D. Howe Institute’s Monetary Policy Council and has been involved with economic policy committees of the Canadian and Ontario Chambers of Commerce and the Toronto Board of Trade. He is also on the Board of the Markham-Stouffville Hospital. In his role as Chair of Scotiabank’s Sponsorship and Donations Committee, he works closely with a wide variety of Canadian charitable institutions.

Dr. Jestin is a popular public speaker and media commentator on economic issues. His knowledge is extensive and his team’s research is leading-edge. He is a sought-after participant for panels and keynotes at major financial and economic events. He gives more than 200 public addresses per year both at home and abroad. Dr. Jesting is passionate about his work and gives generously of his time and expertise.

It is with great pleasure that the University of Guelph Alumni Association names Dr. Warren Jestin as the recipient of the 2012 Alumni Volunteer Award.