David Leighton
David Leighton
David Leighton was an enthusiastic vegetable gardener. He also enjoyed woodworking, fixing up his house, painting projects and electrical ones.
He served in the Navy for 26 years, working alongside Admiral Hyman Rickover. Among his accomplishments is creating USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. A well-respected member of Hilton Head’s community, Captain Davis is fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Early Life and Education
David Leighton was born in Oswego, New York to William and Bertha Leighton as their firstborn son.
He was the inaugural recipient of a scholarship to Harvard Business School and earned both an MBA and DBA from the university. Additionally, he served on multiple corporate boards throughout his career.
On his return to Canada, he became a professor of Marketing at the University of Western Ontario and helped shape their MBA and Executive programs.
He later served on the boards of several national companies, professional and public interest organizations. Additionally, he wrote numerous publications such as Making Boards Work. Furthermore, he earned a Fellow status with the Institute of Canadian Directors and received honorary degrees from Queens and the University of Windsor. Survived by his wife Peggy and daughter Jenny, he will always be remembered by those he leaves behind.
Professional Career
David leighton has made a lasting impact in his professional career. He has created an expansive network and fostered relationships across numerous industries, from banking to construction.
He has played an instrumental role in building WITI into a global enterprise and served as mentor to numerous individuals.
He has also made a significant impact in the community by advocating for health and wellness. A member of several professional organizations, his passion lies in elevating people’s quality of life around the globe.
David loves reading legal thrillers and gardening in his free time. He is also an accomplished musician and photographer.
Achievements and Honors
Leighton was an accomplished sailor, having graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1946 and earned a first-degree from MIT in nuclear engineering.
He would go on to serve as the 11th Bishop of Maryland from 1972-1979 and was renowned for his involvement in ecumenical matters.
He generously funded the construction of a fourth floor for Mathematics researchers at MIT. With his support and that of Bonnie Berger PhD ’90, they now have an elegant new space where they can pursue their research. Furthermore, David Leighton Scholarships have been given out to students with exceptional grades in GCSE Mathematics; we are proud to bestow this honor upon these deserving scholars and wish them nothing but success in the future!
Personal Life
David Leighton was a legendary figure in Canadian business, education and the arts. Tragically, he passed away at 77 years old on September 10, 2018.
David Struan Robertson Leighton was born in Regina, Saskatchewan and earned both a Bachelor of Arts from Queens University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
In 1970, he became President of the Banff Centre (School of Fine Arts). Under his guidance, it blossomed into an internationally acclaimed institution and fostered an extraordinary family of employees and artists.
He was an influential leader in Canadian corporate governance, serving on numerous Boards and being recognized by the Institute of Canadian Directors as a Fellow.
Net Worth
David Struan Robertson Leighton was a towering figure in Canadian business, education and the arts. Sadly, he passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side in Canmore, Alberta.
He was a dedicated husband to Peggy House for 71 years, and together they were blessed with children and grandchildren.
He served as executive director at the University of Western Ontario, president and CEO of the Calgary Olympics Organizing Committee, and chair of Nabisco Brands. Additionally, he served on several major boards such as the National Centre for Management Research and the National Arts Centre. Earning honorary doctorates from Queens University and Windsor University, as well as being named an Officer in the Order of Canada by Queen Elizabeth herself, Peggy has had many adventures throughout her life with him.