He was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to the University of Oxford but was unable to take it up because of the Second World War.
Instead of going to Oxford he went to the University of Toronto with a Leonard Fellowship subsequently taking a position as a radio instructor in Hamilton, Ontario.
He returned to the University of New Brunswick to instruct airmen and sailors at the UNB Radio School.
[1] He was appointed as Acting President of the University in 1969 succeeding Colin B. Mackay.
[1] Dineen's presidency was notable for his commitment to an open and collegial approach, integrity, and leadership.