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May 2013 Honorary Degree Recipient

Doctor of Laws (honoris causa)

Mr. Hans Christian Jost is a leader in the establishment of Nova Scotia’s wine industry and an avid supporter of rural economic development.

Mr. Jost’s father, Hans Wilhelm, one of a long line of German winemakers, brought his family to Nova Scotia in 1970 with an eye to farming. The focus eventually shifted back to winemaking and the founding of Jost Vineyards and Winery in Malagash – the oldest continuously running winery in the province – came to be.

With the passing of Hans Wilhelm in 1988, the family business continued with Mr. Jost as manager and winemaker for Jost Vineyards. He and his wife, Karen, went on to establish Gaspereau Vineyards and opened its accompanying winery in 2004.

Last spring the Josts sold their business. While plans for the future are unfolding, Mr. Jost’s interest in the industry and rural economic development remain unchanged.

A founding member of the Grape Growers Association of Nova Scotia and the Winery Association of Nova Scotia, Mr. Jost has shared his gifts with the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia and the National Wine Standards Committee. He has also demonstrated his commitment to community development through board service and leadership in helping three local schools meet technological demands. 

Mr. Jost is an honorary member of the Nova Scotia Institute of Agrologists.