She has been an important strategic leader and a highly valued colleague at McMaster for many years, developing and leading the Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs team, building McMaster's brand, overseeing the university's government relations strategy, strengthening internal and external relationships, and advancing McMaster's reputation locally, nationally and internationally.
Andrea Farquhar, leader of Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs at McMaster, will retire from the university at the end of April. (Photo by Georgia Kirkos, McMaster University)
"I have been fortunate to see McMaster's amazing development over my years at the university," said Farquhar. "To be able to support and share with the world McMaster's research, teaching and innovation has been a true privilege."
"The CMPA team is talented, professional and everyday works to build the university's reputation, advocacy with government, showcase the university with media, partners, and share McMaster stories and information with our internal community. It has been an honour to work with such an outstanding team and with so many others across the university who are equally committed to McMaster's success."
Farquhar joined McMaster in 1997, after a career in media as a radio news reporter and news reader.
She has led the university's communications team since 2001, becoming AVP, Communications and Public Affairs in 2011, and moving into her current role in 2023.
In addition to her leadership at McMaster, Farquhar is a highly respected global leader within the higher education sector. She is the chair of the Times Higher Education World 100 Reputation Network, which includes the top-ranked universities in the world, and has served as chair of the Ontario Universities Public Affairs Council.
"Andrea has led the CMPA team through many complex and quickly changing times and has remained focused on supporting the academic and research mission of the university and building McMaster's reputation throughout," said President David Farrar.
"She has always been completely committed to the university's success and the success of her team members. On behalf of everyone at McMaster, I want to thank her for her dedicated service, advice and support over many years."
An interim leader will be appointed to oversee and support the CMPA team while a search is undertaken for a successor.
"I am grateful that Andrea has developed such a professional and dedicated team within CMPA", said Provost and President-designate Susan Tighe.
"This is a critically important role and function for the University so we need to take some time to consider what is needed before launching a search."
