Births on April 15

Robert Lacroix, Canadian economist and academic

The Distinguished Career of Robert Lacroix: An Eminent Canadian Economist and Academic Leader

Born on April 15, 1940, Robert Lacroix stands as a distinguished figure in Canadian academia, renowned for his significant contributions as a professor of economics at the Université de Montréal. His career exemplifies a profound commitment to scholarly inquiry, university leadership, and public discourse, particularly within Quebec and Canada.

Academic Journey and Scholarly Contributions

Dr. Lacroix's academic path began with rigorous study, culminating in his Ph.D. in economics from the esteemed Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium in 1970. Immediately following this achievement, he embarked on his illustrious tenure at the Université de Montréal, joining its Department of Economics as a professor. Throughout his extensive career, his research primarily centered on the intricate field of labor economics, exploring dynamics such as employment, wages, and workforce policies. He consistently disseminated his findings through numerous articles published in highly respected, peer-reviewed journals, thereby shaping economic thought and contributing significantly to the academic discourse in his field.

Leadership in University Administration

Beyond his prolific research and teaching, Professor Lacroix demonstrated exceptional administrative acumen. From 1987 to 1993, he served as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at the Université de Montréal, overseeing a broad spectrum of disciplines and fostering academic excellence across numerous departments. His leadership continued to ascend, culminating in his appointment as Rector of the university from 1998 until 2005. In this pivotal role, akin to a President or Vice-Chancellor in many other university systems, he held the highest administrative authority, guiding the institution's strategic direction, managing its operations, and fostering its growth and reputation on both national and international stages.

Engagement in Public Discourse and Policy

Professor Lacroix's influence extended beyond the university campus into significant public policy debates. In 2005, he was notably among the twelve prominent signatories of 'Pour un Québec lucide' (For a Clear-Eyed Quebec), an influential political manifesto. This document called for a pragmatic and forward-looking approach to Quebec's future, often focusing on economic realities, public finances, and a less ideologically driven public discourse, rather than solely on constitutional issues. His participation underscored his role as a public intellectual deeply engaged with the socio-economic challenges facing his province and contributing to critical societal discussions.

Distinctions and Continuing Influence

His remarkable career and public service have been met with significant national and provincial recognition. Robert Lacroix is a distinguished Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the country's senior collegium of distinguished scholars, artists, and scientists, an honor recognizing his outstanding academic contributions. He has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the nation's highest civilian honors, recognizing outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nation. Furthermore, he is an Officer of the National Order of Quebec, the highest distinction bestowed by the Government of Quebec, acknowledging his exceptional accomplishments and impact within the province. His scientific contributions were also formally acknowledged with the prestigious Quebec Award for Science (Prix Armand-Frappier). Even after his rectorship, he remains actively involved as a Fellow at CIRANO, a prominent Montréal-based interuniversity research center and think tank dedicated to economics and public policy, where he continues to contribute to vital discussions and research that inform public debate and shape policy directions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Lacroix

Who is Robert Lacroix?

Robert Lacroix is a distinguished Canadian economist and academic, primarily known for his long tenure as a professor at the Université de Montréal and for serving as the university's Rector.

What is his academic background?

He holds a Ph.D. in economics from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, which he completed in 1970.

What was his primary field of research?

His research focused predominantly on labor economics, with numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals.

What significant administrative roles did he hold at the Université de Montréal?

He served as Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences from 1987 to 1993, and then as Rector of the Université de Montréal from 1998 to 2005.

What is 'Pour un Québec lucide'?

'Pour un Québec lucide' (For a Clear-Eyed Quebec) is an influential political manifesto, signed by Robert Lacroix and eleven other prominent figures in 2005, advocating for a pragmatic approach to Quebec's economic and social development.

What honors has Robert Lacroix received?

He has received several prestigious honors, including being a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, an Officer of the Order of Canada, an Officer of the National Order of Quebec, and a recipient of the Quebec Award for Science (Prix Armand-Frappier).

Is he still active in academia or public policy?

Yes, he remains an active Fellow at CIRANO, a Montréal-based think tank specializing in economics and public policy, continuing to contribute to research and public discourse.