David Asper, K.C., is a lawyer, business-person and philanthropist. In recognition of his professional and community service he received an Honourary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Manitoba, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, an Arbor Award from the University of Toronto and is a proud member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Football Club Hall of Fame.
Starting his career as a lawyer, Mr. Asper focused primarily on criminal defense litigation and successfully represented David Milgaard in overturning one of Canada’s most notorious wrongful conviction cases.
In business, following a career with Canwest Global Communications as a Senior Executive and Member of the Board, Asper has established and maintains a portfolio of private equity investments. He is currently owner and founder of the Winnipeg Sea Bears, a professional basketball team that plays in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. In 2023 the team was awarded Franchise of the Year.
Following completion of his Masters in Law at the University of Toronto in 2007, Mr. Asper served as Assistant Professor at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Law. He has also taught at Lakehead University’s Bora Laskin School of Law and Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. In addition, he served a term appointment as Acting Dean at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Law.
Mr. Asper is a Trustee and past Chair of The Asper Foundation. In April 2017, was appointed to serve as the first civilian Chair of the Winnipeg Police Board.
Following his term of office, he was then appointed as Chair of the Manitoba Police Commission