Why are we undertaking a presidential search now?

A search for a new president had begun in 2019. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Board decided unanimously in March 2020 to suspend this search and appoint Charlotte Yates to lead the University on an interim basis. Yates will complete her current term as president and vice-chancellor on Aug. 1, 2022.

Board policy requires that a presidential search begin at least one year before the end of the incumbent president’s term.

  Is the current president eligible for appointment again?

Yes, the Policy on University Appointments says the incumbent president may be a candidate for the position.

  What is involved in a presidential search and who conducts it?

The presidential search process is governed by the Policy on University Appointments.

  Who chairs the Presidential Selection Committee and how is its membership determined?

The Policy on University Appointments states that the chair of the Board of Governors will chair the Presidential Selection Committee. It also states that the other members of the committee will be selected as follows:

  • Two (2) external members of the Board of Governors, appointed by the Board
  • Three (3) tenured faculty members, elected by Senate
  • One (1) undergraduate student, elected by Senate
  • One (1) graduate student, elected by Senate
  • One (1) regular full-time staff member, elected by Senate
  • One (1) member of the alumni community, elected by the University of Guelph Alumni Association

A call for nominations for faculty, staff and student members of the committee was posted on March 2, 2021. A list of members will be available on the Selection Committee page.

  How long will the presidential search process take?

The committee will begin its work in spring 2021. The presidential search is expected to be complete by fall 2021.

  How will the presidential search process be structured?

Guided by the Policy on University Appointments and an external search firm, the Presidential Selection Committee will develop a plan for conducting the search. Among other tasks, the committee will determine the general characteristics and capabilities required in a candidate, advertise the position, interview candidates and recommend a candidate to the Board of Governors for appointment. A broad timeline for the search process is available on the timeline page.

  Who makes the final decision on who the next President will be?

In keeping with the University of Guelph Act, 1964, the Board of Governors must approve the appointment of a president.

  Will there be an opportunity for community input into the presidential search process?

The selection committee will seek input from the University community later this spring; the extensive community input received in 2019-20 will also inform the presidential search process. The Presidential Selection Committee welcomes additional feedback at any time and can be reached at universityappts@uoguelph.ca.

  Where can I find updates on the presidential search process and whom do I contact if I have questions or comments?

Updates are available on the “What’s New” section of the presidential search website.

You may submit questions or comments to University Secretary Gen Gauthier-Chalifour at universityappts@uoguelph.ca.