Carleton University is mourning the loss of distinguished diplomat and longtime supporter William H. Barton, who passed away on Friday, Nov. 8, 2013.
“Mr. Barton’s vision of a better world was at the heart of his decision to support Carleton and the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs,” said Carleton President Roseann O’Reilly Runte. “We remain grateful to him and his family for his trust and generosity.”
Barton has been an ongoing supporter of Carleton since 1985. In 2005, he created the Barton Award in Arms Control and Disarmament, which is awarded annually to outstanding full-time graduate students in the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs pursuing a research essay or thesis in the area of arms control and disarmament. In 2007, he created the William and Jeanie Barton Chair in International Affairs to foster research and provide a platform to enhance in students a greater understanding of international affairs, with a particular emphasis on arms control, disarmament and the United Nations.
In 2008, Carleton awarded Barton the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Canada’s role in world affairs and the advancement of global disarmament. In April 2013, Carleton presented him with the Leadership in Philanthropy Award, which is presented annually to an individual, family, association, corporation or foundation that, through financial support and outstanding leadership, has had a significant impact on the success of the university. In October 2013, seven Carleton students had the chance to attend the General Assembly First Committee at the United Nations in New York City and take part in a series of lectures at Harvard University thanks to the Barton Travel Bursary.
Barton served with distinction as a Canadian diplomat for more than 30 years. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of British Columbia in 1940, he served as an officer in the Canadian army until 1946. His experience led to a position at the Defence Research Board. He was seconded to the Department of External Affairs in 1952. He served in major diplomatic posts in Vienna, Geneva and New York.
As Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva from 1972 to 1976 he represented Canada at the Conference of the Committee on Disarmament and chaired what came to be known as “The Barton Group,” a meeting of Western countries convened regularly by Canada in Geneva and New York to co-ordinate their policies on arms control and disarmament. In the fall of 1976, he became ambassador and permanent representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York. In 1977 and 1978, he represented Canada on the UN Security Council and took his turn as president of the Security Council.
After retiring in 1980, Barton continued his involvement in international affairs. His considerable experience was an invaluable asset in the formation of the Canadian Institute for International Peace and Security. He served as the institute’s first chairman from 1984 to 1989. In 1994, Barton received the Order of Canada, and was cited as a highly respected and trusted diplomat who enhanced Canada’s role and stature in the international community.
Friends are invited to visit the Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, Central Chapel, 315 McLeod Street, Ottawa on Friday, Nov. 15 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 16 from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. The memorial service begins in the chapel at 2:30 p.m on Nov. 16. Interment will take place at Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa.
Media Inquiries:
Chris Cline
Media Relations Co-ordinator
Carleton University
613-520-2600, ext. 1391
613-355-0336
christopher_cline@carleton.ca
Tuesday, November 12, 2013 in News Releases
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