ASSOCIATION OF ATLANTIC UNIVERSITIES
Executive Director Peter Halpin to retire from the AAU after 22 years

On September 2, the Association of Atlantic Universities (AAU) announced that its long serving Executive Director, Peter Halpin, will retire from his role effective February 28, 2026.

Halpin began his term as Executive Director December 2003. He has served as "the voice of higher education" in Atlantic Canada for close to 22 years.

"It has been a great honour and privilege for me to serve the interests of our university leaders and the sector. The AAU has provided me with a unique opportunity to work closely with the region's university leaders; have regular interactions with other university leaders and national associations from across the country, regional and national business and industry leaders, senior government officials and political representatives at all levels, as well as student leaders," said Halpin.

Dr. Paul Mazerolle, Chair, AAU and President, University of New Brunswick, said, "Peter Halpin's contribution to the university sector in Atlantic Canada has been extraordinary. He has been a strong advocate for the sector and the region and his steady, calm leadership well over two decades is deeply impressive. On behalf of the AAU, I offer sincere thanks and appreciation for Peter's leadership and overall contribution to the university sector in Atlantic Canada."

During his tenure as Executive Director, the AAU developed a national reputation for the high degree of collaboration and cooperation among its member universities.

Halpin noted that, "despite consistently strong support among Atlantic Canadians for the value and contribution of universities to the region's economic growth, social and cultural development, our institutions must continue to work hard at ensuring governments at all levels fully-understand the sector is a vital strategic asset to Atlantic Canada's future prosperity."