Hazel McCallion, Canadian businesswoman and politician, 3rd Mayor of Mississauga

Hazel McCallion, born Hazel Journeaux on February 14, 1921, in Port Daniel, Quebec, is a towering figure in Canadian public life. This distinguished businesswoman and retired politician left an indelible mark on the landscape of Ontario, most notably as the fifth mayor of Mississauga. Her extensive political career began with her service on the Streetsville Planning Board and as Mayor of Streetsville, one of the municipalities that later amalgamated to form the city of Mississauga, setting the stage for her remarkable future leadership.

Her extraordinary tenure as mayor of Mississauga spanned an unparalleled 36 years, from her initial election in November 1978 until her retirement in 2014. This period solidified her legacy as the longest-serving mayor in Mississauga's history, a record that underscores her enduring popularity and effective leadership. Under her guidance, Mississauga transformed from a collection of towns into one of Canada's largest and most vibrant cities, experiencing significant population growth and economic development. She famously championed a fiscally prudent approach, overseeing this massive urban expansion without incurring major municipal debt.

McCallion's political prowess was undeniable, as evidenced by her success in twelve municipal elections. Demonstrating immense public trust, she was acclaimed twice – a rare achievement meaning she won without opposition – and successfully re-elected ten other times. This consistent electoral success speaks volumes about her profound connection with the electorate and her ability to deliver on her promises over more than three decades.

The "Hurricane Hazel" Phenomenon

Known for her assertive and direct approach to governance and policy, McCallion earned the famous moniker "Hurricane Hazel" from her supporters. This nickname cleverly referenced the devastating Hurricane Hazel of 1954, a powerful tropical cyclone that had a considerable and lasting impact on Southern Ontario, including the greater Toronto area. Just as the hurricane was a force of nature, Hazel McCallion was seen as an unstoppable political force, characterized by her outspoken political style, her decisive actions, and her unwavering commitment to her city's interests. She was not shy about expressing her views or challenging higher levels of government when she believed it was in Mississauga's best interest, often fighting passionately for local control and responsible development.

A Continuing Legacy: Sheridan College Chancellor

Even after her retirement from mayoral duties in 2014, Hazel McCallion continued to contribute significantly to public life. She holds the distinguished position as the first and current Chancellor of Sheridan College, a leading polytechnic institute in Ontario with campuses in Oakville, Brampton, and Mississauga. Appointed in 2016, her ceremonial yet influential role involves advocating for the college, presiding over convocations, and representing Sheridan at various events, further cementing her commitment to education, community development, and civic engagement.

Key Takeaways from Hazel McCallion's Career

• Record-Setting Tenure: Served 36 years as Mayor of Mississauga, establishing herself as the longest-serving mayor in the city's history and one of Canada's most enduring municipal leaders.
• Fiscal Prudence: Championed a debt-free city model, overseeing Mississauga's immense growth responsibly and sustainably.
• Unmatched Electoral Success: Won 12 municipal elections, including two acclamations, demonstrating profound and consistent public support throughout her career.
• Iconic Leadership Style: Known as "Hurricane Hazel" for her outspoken, direct, and impactful political approach, which defined her brand of decisive leadership.
• Post-Political Service: Continues to contribute to the community and education sector as the first Chancellor of Sheridan College.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazel McCallion

When was Hazel McCallion born?

Hazel McCallion was born Hazel Journeaux on February 14, 1921, in Port Daniel, Quebec. Her long life has allowed her to witness and shape many decades of Canadian history.

How long did Hazel McCallion serve as Mayor of Mississauga?

She served an extraordinary 36 years, from her first election in November 1978 until her retirement in 2014. This makes her the longest-serving mayor in the city's history, a truly remarkable political achievement.

Why was she called "Hurricane Hazel"?

Her supporters affectionately nicknamed her "Hurricane Hazel" due to her outspoken and impactful political style, drawing a parallel to the powerful Hurricane Hazel that significantly affected Southern Ontario in 1954. The name perfectly captured her decisive, strong, and transformative leadership.

What is Hazel McCallion's role after retiring as mayor?

Following her retirement as mayor of Mississauga, Hazel McCallion assumed the role of the first and current Chancellor of Sheridan College in 2016, where she continues to advocate for education and the college community across its campuses.

What was Hazel McCallion's main accomplishment as Mayor?

Among her many significant accomplishments, she is widely credited with guiding Mississauga's immense growth from a series of smaller towns into a major Canadian urban center, all while famously maintaining a fiscally responsible, debt-free municipal government. Her unwavering dedication to the city's interests and strategic development truly defines her mayoral legacy.