Dalton McGuinty was born and raised in Ottawa’s Alta Vista neighbourhood. He credits his parents with teaching him the values and ethics that guide him as Premier. They passed on their commitment to education, family and community service to each of their 10 children. Dalton’s mother is a retired nurse living in Ottawa and his father was a teacher and professor who served as the Ottawa South MPP until he passed away in 1990.

After graduating from St. Patrick’s High School, Dalton worked as an orderly at the Rideau Veterans’ Hospital where he formed the basis of his strong values on health care. Dalton holds a law degree from the University of Ottawa and a science degree from McMaster University. Before entering politics, Dalton practised law at an Ottawa South firm and taught at Carleton University. He met his wife Terri, an elementary school teacher, when they were both still high school students. They have been married since 1980 and have four grown children.

In 1990, Dalton won the Ottawa South seat formerly held by his father. During his first term, he successfully fought to bring paramedics to Ottawa. In opposition, Dalton rallied with the community to save CHEO’s cardiac unit. Saving the unit was one of his first actions as Premier. CHEO now houses the provincial Newborn Screening program for all Ontario newborns.

Dalton will continue to work hard to improve our schools, our hospitals - the things that matter most to our families.