Born in Berlin in 1925, Stephen Jarislowsky’s early years were shaped by the upheavals of twentieth-century Europe. After immigrating to North America, he studied engineering before earning graduate degrees in the United States. He later served in the U.S. military, including a postwar posting in Japan, before making Montreal his home in the early 1950s.
Jarislowsky built one of Canada’s most respected investment management firms and earned a reputation for integrity and rigorous attention to good governance. Brilliant, intellectually curious and principled, he embraced a rich life beyond business. Fluent in English, French and German, with a working knowledge of Japanese, he also had a deep appreciation for family, walking, gardening, good wine, music, art and literature. Over the course of his life, he received some of Canada’s highest honours, including the Order of Canada, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to business, philanthropy, education and public life.
A vision for a better society
Stephen Jarislowsky believed that universities play a vital role in building a better future. He saw them as places where excellence could be cultivated, new ideas could flourish and future leaders could develop the knowledge and perspective needed to strengthen society.
That belief was reflected in the work of the Jarislowsky Foundation, which helped establish dozens of university chairs across Canada. The Foundation also supported organizations working in education, health, the arts, the environment and climate change. Through these investments, Jarislowsky helped create opportunities for research, learning and public service that will benefit Canadians for generations to come.
Although he achieved remarkable success in business, Jarislowsky spoke later in life with particular pride about the work of the Foundation. “That's what life is about, helping other people,” he said.
Principles in practice
Stephen Jarislowsky’s commitment to higher education is reflected at uOttawa through two endowed chairs. Established in 2003, the Jarislowsky Chair in Public Sector Management advances research and dialogue on governance and public leadership. In 2021, the Foundation partnered with the University to establish the Jarislowsky Chair in Clean Economy and Innovation, extending his support for research that addresses society’s most pressing challenges.
Together, these chairs continue to support work in areas that mattered deeply to Jarislowsky throughout his life: ethical leadership, strong institutions, practical public policy and a more sustainable future.
“Mr. Jarislowsky’s belief in the power of education, ethical leadership and helping others continues to inspire the students, researchers, leaders and communities who build on his vision. Their work stands as a lasting reflection of the values that guided his life,” said Marie-Eve Sylvestre, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Ottawa.
“Mr. Jarislowsky’s belief in the power of education, ethical leadership and helping others continues to inspire the students, researchers, leaders and communities who build on his vision.”
Marie-Eve Sylvestre
— President and vice-chancellor, University of Ottawa