HALIFAX – Former New Democrat leader Alexa McDonough was honoured by New Democrats tonight with the establishment of the Alexa McDonough Scholarship in Peace and Conflict Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax.

“What an incredible moment,” said McDonough to delegates gathered at the New Democrat convention. “Peace, human rights and an end to conflict have been the focus of my energy for years now, so I am honoured to have a scholarship in my name for students pursuing their study.”

“Young people are deeply committed to a more peaceful world and Peace and Conflict Studies at Mount Saint Vincent gives them an opportunity to develop that commitment in an academic context. I hope this scholarship can help young Canadians build a better world.”

Alexa McDonough led the New Democrats from 1995 to 2003, the second woman to do so. She led the party to its critical 1997 Atlantic breakthrough, winning 21 seats across Canada. She began her current role as the President of Mount Saint Vincent University in August 2009.

“Many Canadians have stood up for peace over the years, but few as strongly or as passionately as Alexa McDonough,” said New Democrat leader Jack Layton, who presented the scholarship to McDonough. “This scholarship is fitting tribute to her contribution to Canada and the New Democrats.”