In Memoriam: Brent Herbert-Copley

The WUSC network mourns the loss of Brent Herbert-Copley and extends our deepest sympathies to his friends and family.

Brent was an innovative leader in international cooperation who devoted his career to research, higher education and public policy, both in Canada and internationally. A former senior executive with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), he acted as advisor on a variety of domestic and international initiatives, and served as Canadian co-chair of a bilateral committee on science and technology cooperation between Canada and Chile. Brent obtained a PhD in political science from Carleton University and published on issues of innovation, environmental regulation and research policy.

Despite his many achievements, Brent remained humble and curious, committed to a lifelong pursuit of learning. One of the ways in which he achieved this was through his many travels around the world.

Brent first became involved with WUSC in 1981 when he traveled to Ecuador with several of his Canadian peers to participate in our annual International Seminar. 

Late last year, we approached Brent to sit on WUSC’s Board of Directors and were thrilled when he accepted our invitation. 

“Brent leaves behind a lasting legacy through his many achievements and through the many lives he touched. We regret the missed opportunity for the important contributions we know Brent would have made for our organization and our mission had he had the chance to serve.” – Chris Eaton, WUSC Executive Director

He is survived by his wife, Mary, and children Drew (Shannon) and Taylor (Rachel). Brent passed away on March 17, 2022. 

We are grateful to Brent’s friends and family who chose to honour his legacy by making a donation to WUSC. These contributions will help to continue Brent’s legacy in making the world a better place for young people.