Important update from Universities Canada

March 21, 2023

News

A message from Universities Canada’s Board Chair, Meric Gertler

I am writing to share the news that Paul Davidson has informed me he will be stepping down as President of Universities Canada effective June 30, 2023.

Paul has held leadership roles in four different sectors over the last 30 years, including 14 years at Universities Canada. In recent months, Paul initiated discussions with me about a succession plan. He indicated he was preparing for a change of career, and wanted the time to consider how best to contribute over the next decade.

Paul began his term as President in May 2009. Since then, Canada’s universities have benefitted enormously from Paul’s remarkable vision, exceptional leadership and drive.  He has led bold and successful advocacy efforts resulting in landmark investments in research, an ambitious International Education Strategy featuring new opportunities for Canadian students to study abroad, and significant progress in advancing Indigenous higher education and inclusive excellence. He has built strong and effective partnerships across the post-secondary education sector and more broadly, to highlight and amplify the impact of universities in communities across Canada and beyond.

Paul’s leadership and creativity were pivotal in helping universities deliver for Canada throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a strong sense of community amongst university leaders united by a common purpose. That shared sense of community and purpose continues today, and will be a lasting legacy of Paul’s leadership.

An equally significant part of Paul’s legacy is the strong, diverse, and dynamic leadership team he has built – one that will sustain Universities Canada’s momentum and impact during the leadership transition and beyond. The Board of Directors will chart a path forward when it meets next month.  Following that meeting, I will be writing again with further details concerning the search for Paul’s successor.

About Universities Canada
Universities Canada is the voice of Canada’s universities at home and abroad, advancing higher education, research and innovation for the benefit of all Canadians.

Media contact:

Lisa Wallace
Assistant Director, Communications
Universities Canada
[email protected]

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