Jamie Dinsmore, Sc’97, stepped into one of the most coveted jobs in Canada when he became the president and CEO of Canada’s Hockey Hall of Fame.
Queen’s alumnus Jamie Dinsmore assumed his new role on Canada Day – and the timing was only fitting for the role of leading an institution that celebrates our country’s unique attachment to a sport that is so tied to our national identity. “We will continue to honour the past, engage future generations, and expand the reach of hockey to fans and players worldwide,” he said when he was announced as the successful candidate. We asked him about his plans for the future, his favourite team, and the part of the Hall that you absolutely have to see the next time you visit.
Do you remember how you felt when you found out the job was yours?
I vividly remember the moment, and even now it still brings a smile to my face. Above all, I felt immense gratitude. The journey was long and thorough, stretching over a year and nearly 1,000 applicants. In preparing, I had the privilege of meeting many remarkable people and engaging in conversations about museums, not‑for‑profits, hockey, and sustaining the Hall’s future. Their generosity and advice meant so much, and I remain deeply thankful. For someone who grew up with hockey as a constant, being entrusted with leading the Hall is a bit surreal and I continue to feel the privilege of stewarding a living part of our national identity.
How did your engineering education at Queen’s prepare you for your current role?
Queen’s Engineering provided me with an incredible foundation in problem solving and analytical thinking. For me, it’s about learning how to break down complex challenges and build solutions – key skills that apply to any leadership role. Fundamentally, I can say that (Smith) Engineering instilled resilience, discipline, and the ability to adapt. All qualities I draw on every day in my role.
Did your experience as a varsity hockey player shape your view on the sport and its history?
Absolutely. Playing for the Gaels was formative in many ways. Hockey has the longest season in U Sports – running from late September tryouts through to the championships in March. Balancing academics with that commitment taught me discipline, time management, and teamwork. It also gave me a deep appreciation for the dedication required to play at a high level. Only a fraction of athletes reach the professional ranks, and an even smaller percentage are inducted into the Hall of Fame. That perspective helps me honour the extraordinary achievement of those who are inducted, while also recognizing the broader values of grit and perseverance that hockey instills at every level – for boys, girls, women and men alike.
“For me … the 1987 Canada Cup stands out as the defining example of hockey’s emotional connection to Canadians and was arguably the ˴Ƭ ‘best‑on‑best’ series in hockey’s history.”
If you could show an alum one exhibit at the HHOF, what would it be?
Wow, that’s a tough choice. Choosing just one, I’d take them to the Esso Great Hall. The Great Hall is a magnificent historic building where the Stanley Cup resides, along with the NHL’s major trophies, and is lined with the plaques of all the Honoured Members. You can feel it the moment you walk in. Standing with the Cup and touching it connects you instantly to generations of players, fans, and so many truly unforgettable moments. It’s the heart of the Hall – a place where history and emotion converge.
If not hockey, which sport would you promote?
Rugby. It shares hockey’s toughness, physicality, and team-first mentality. It’s demanding yet rooted in respect. Players battle fiercely on the pitch, then shake hands and often share a post-game moment together. That spirit of camaraderie resonates with me and is very similar to the environment in hockey.
Is there a moment at the Hall that illustrates hockey’s emotional connection to Canadians?
There are many moments that the Hall celebrates, including Canada’s win over the U.S.S.R. in 1972, our Canadian women winning gold at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, and most recently Canada’s 2025 overtime win over the U.S.A. at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
For me, however, the 1987 Canada Cup stands out as the defining example of hockey’s emotional connection to Canadians and was arguably the ˴Ƭ “best‑on‑best” series in hockey’s history. I vividly remember Mario Lemieux’s game‑winning goal – fittingly set up by Wayne Gretzky – with less than two minutes left in the decisive third game. I fondly remember the immense pride that goal stirred across Canada.
Looking forward, what gives you optimism about hockey’s future?
Hockey in Canada has been reflecting on issues of inclusion and accessibility. Grassroots programs are opening doors for girls, newcomers, and underrepresented communities. Technology and digital storytelling are making hockey’s history relevant for younger generations. And today’s players are embracing their role as ambassadors for respect, diversity, and community. At the Hall of Fame, our mission is to celebrate hockey’s past while inspiring its future. With youth engagement, creative partnerships, and the resilience of fans, I’m confident hockey is entering a new era – one that honours its legacy while becoming more inclusive, innovative, and global than ever before. I’m proud and honoured to help steward that future and energized by the chance to ensure hockey continues to unite, inspire, and reflect the very best of Canada – here and around the world.
