John Bragg: businessperson, philanthropist and regional enthusiast

Bragg has expanded beyond blueberries into telecommunications, founding a television cable company that would go on to become Eastlink. He’s employed thousands of people, plus he’s given generously through numerous acts of philanthropy.

“John’s support of research at Dalhousie’s Faculty of Agriculture has been a gamechanger,” says Dr. Gray.

Since 1976, Bragg has invested millions of dollars into wild blueberry research at Dalhousie’s Faculty of Agriculture, believing that while wild blueberries are a crop well suited to this region, efficiency and best practices at all levels are needed if Nova Scotia is to remain competitive. Today, you can still find Bragg driving through his blueberry fields; roads he has driven up and down since he was 15 years old.

“John’s support has helped us educate past, present, and future leaders in this region and for that we are immeasurably grateful; indeed, he has transformed the blueberry industry in Nova Scotia,” says Dr. Gray.

Bragg has been honoured with many awards during his career. These have included a Dalhousie Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in 2008, making him an alum of the university. In 1996 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada and this winter, was promoted to Companion. The Order cited Bragg for his “exceptional contributions to the prosperity and well-being of Atlantic Canadians and for his legendary commitment to the development of rural communities.”

“This is an honour that is well-deserved,” says Dr. Gray.