Rev. Dr. Harry Gardner has spent decades walking alongside countless individuals and influencing institutions that continue to shape Christian leadership across Canada and beyond. On May 14, 2026, Acadia University celebrated that impact by presenting Dr. Gardner with an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree at the Convocation for the Faculties of Theology and Arts.
For many in the Acadia Divinity College community, Dr. Gardner is more than a respected leader and an accomplished administrator. He is a steadfast pastor, devoted mentor, encouraging presence, and a faithful friend. Whether in the classroom, the pulpit, a boardroom, or over coffee, his remarkable ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued, has been felt across campus and beyond.
FAITHFUL SERVICE
A native of Nova Scotia’s South Shore, Dr. Gardner has devoted decades of faithful service to a ministry with ever-widening reach. After graduating from Acadia Divinity College in 1977, he served congregations in Burlington-Victoria Harbour, Wilmot, and Liverpool-Brooklyn before moving into denominational leadership with the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC), eventually rising to the position of Executive Minister. From there, his influence steadily expanded to the international stage serving as President of the North American Baptist Fellowship, Vice President of the Baptist World Alliance, and Chair of the Board of Commissioners for the Association of Theological Schools.
Yet for all the titles and accomplishments, those who know Dr. Gardner best will often speak first about his character.
LEADERSHIP SHAPED BY CARE
During ADC’s 2026 Commissioning Service, President Dr. Anna Robbins reflected warmly on Dr. Gardner’s impact, describing leadership as “Harry’s DNA.” She spoke of his extraordinary ability to guide organizations through complexity and conflict with wisdom, patience, and grace. From ministers navigating difficult seasons to students discerning their calling, and leaders searching for encouragement and perspective, Dr. Robbins highlighted Dr. Gardner’s deep care for people and emphasized his unwavering investment in others.
“Above all else,” Dr. Robbins shared, “he’s known as a pastor who loves the Lord, forming leaders in the image of Christ to be who they’ve been created and called to be.”
That calling was especially evident during Dr. Gardner’s tenure as President of Acadia Divinity College and Dean of Theology for Acadia University from 2008 to 2019. Under his leadership, ADC strengthened its academic programs, expanded research opportunities, and continued cultivating spiritually formative theological education for students preparing to serve around the world. In recognition of his service, the Board of Trustees conferred upon him the title of President Emeritus in 2021.
AN ENDURING MINISTRY
Even in retirement, Dr. Gardner’s ministry continues. In recent years, he has supported the College in development work while also serving as the inaugural National Convenor for Canadian Baptist Partners, helping foster collaboration and shared mission among Baptist organizations across Canada.
Through it all, Dr. Gardner remains deeply rooted in faith, humility, and compassion — qualities that have endeared him to generations of students, colleagues, pastors, and friends. What endures beyond the titles and positions are the people Dr. Gardner has helped to shape and send out into the world.
Acadia University’s decision to honour Rev. Dr. Harry Gardner recognizes a lifetime of service to God, the church, and the many people he has encouraged, equipped, and inspired to follow Christ more faithfully.
