Dramatic growth and expansion, enduring hallmarks of the Jewish General Hospital, continued under Archie Deskin’s guidance throughout his term as Executive Director.

Among the most significant developments during his term were the launch of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, creation of the Division of Geriatric Medicine, establishment of Hope & Cope, the opening of Pavilion E and inauguration of the Bloomfield Centre for Research in Aging. In addition, he was of key importance in helping the JGH to overcome major budgetary difficulties in the 1970s and to emerge stronger than ever.

Born in Montreal, Mr. Deskin received his B.A. in 1957 from Sir George Williams University and his M.A. in Hospital Administration in 1960 from the University of Montreal’s Institut supérieur d’administration hospitalière. He was appointed Assistant Executive Director of the Montreal Hebrew Old People’s Home in 1953 and was promoted to Executive Director in 1957.

Two years later, while completing a university field placement for his Master’s degree, Mr. Deskin was asked to joined the Jewish General Hospital as Administrative Resident. After his residency ended, he remained at the JGH and was appointed Assistant Director. Mr. Deskin went on to become Associate Executive Director in 1971 and Executive Director in 1975, serving in that capacity for 16 years.