
John Hunkin, C.M. (MBA ’69, Hon LLD ’04), a distinguished alumnus of York University and a pillar of the Schulich School of Business and York community, passed away suddenly on Jan. 6 at the age of 79.
Shortly after graduating from Schulich, Hunkin began his remarkable career at CIBC in 1969. He continued to achieve success taking the roles of Chair and president/CEO from 1999 to 2005, driving significant growth and strengthening CIBC’s presence in the U.S. and its investment banking and retail operations.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Hunkin received the Schulich Alumni Recognition Award for Outstanding Executive Leadership in 1995. Deeply committed to the Schulich School of Business, Hunkin served as Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Council for over 20 years. He co-chaired the School’s 50th Anniversary and Building Campaign, the most successful fundraising initiative in Schulich’s history.
When he stepped down as Chair, Dean Emeritus Dezsö J. Horváth said, “With John, there was always an expectation of excellence and a belief that we could be the best. No school could ask for a more loyal alumnus or a more generous friend.”
Hunkin’s dedication to York University extended beyond Schulich. He was a longtime member of the York University Board of Governors and the York University Foundation Board. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the University's future.
His involvement with several other organizations, including the St. Michael's Hospital Foundation and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, further demonstrated his commitment to community service.
In 2019, Hunkin was awarded the Order of Canada for his commitment to governance and philanthropy. Together with his wife, Susan Crocker, he supported numerous health care and educational causes, demonstrating his determination to advance student excellence at York. Over the years, their generous contributions have benefitted numerous students at York through the John Hunkin Financial Services Award, the Susan Crocker and John Hunkin Scholarship in the Fine Arts and more.
To honor his extraordinary contributions, Schulich established the John Hunkin Scholarship in Leadership and Sustainability in 2021. This award supports MBA students who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential and a commitment to sustainability.
Alan Middleton (MBA ’77, PhD ’97), former executive director of the Schulich Executive Education Centre, described Hunkin as a “passionate and loyal supporter who was always there when we needed him.” Bill Graham (MBA ’86), former President of Schulich’s Global Alumni Network, noted John’s “enormous contributions and commitment,” calling his passing a great loss. Rob Hines, former executive director of Schulich’s Centre for Career Design and fellow advisory council member, praised Hunkin as a “brilliant leader and strategist” who genuinely cared about his team and co-workers.
Those wishing to pay tribute to Hunkin are invited to make a donation to support the scholarship named in his honour.
With files from Detlev Zwick, dean, Schulich School of Business