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Campus Bulletin

May 11, 2006

University Secretary Named

Vicki Hodgkinson, executive assistant to the president, has been appointed to the new position of University secretary effective June 1. The announcement was made today by president Alastair Summerlee.

“As University secretary, Vicki will help provide new opportunities and improved services for the University relative to governance and accountability,” Summerlee said, adding that Hodgkinson was selected for the position following a lengthy external search.

“Board of Governors and Senate must play a strong role in our ongoing advocacy work, and the University secretary will help ensure that all our constituents are invited to be engaged in our advocacy efforts.”

The new University secretary position was created following a review of the organizational structure of the Senate and B of G offices by retired economics professor Ken Grant. He recommended the move in light of new governance challenges, particularly the requirements related to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). Starting in June, universities will be under the purview of FIPPA.

As University secretary, Hodgkinson will serve as the freedom of information and privacy commissioner, fulfilling the University’s responsibilities under FIPPA and providing information and advice to the University community and the general public.

She will also be responsible for the efficient and timely operation of B of G and the Board of Trustees, as well as for Senate and its committees, subcommittees, task forces and working groups. She will be assisted by two associate secretaries.

In addition, Hodgkinson will promote and support strong and effective relationships between the governing bodies, serve as U of G’s most senior adviser on governance issues, and support the development of new policies and procedures.

She brings more than two decades of experience in Ontario’s post-secondary sector to the position, including eight years in her current role, 11 years as a policy adviser with the Ontario government and six years working in the executive offices at York University.

“I look forward to the challenges this new position will bring and to working with staff in both the B of G and Senate offices on efforts that will benefit both governing bodies and the University,” she said.

Summerlee said that, although Hodgkinson will be missed in the president’s office, he will take the opportunity to restructure assignments among existing staff.