Their leadership has spanned law, health care and public service. Now, they're helping lead the University of New Brunswick (UNB) into the future.
Janet Hoyt (LLB'84) and Janet Knox (BN 76) are the new chair and vice-chair of UNB's board of governors: two alumni with leadership rooted in experience and a deep commitment to giving back.
In this conversation, Hoyt and Knox reflect on their connection to UNB, their leadership journeys and their hopes for the university's future.
Leadership grounded in experience
Hoyt, a lawyer and executive coach, has spent more than 35 years in the legal profession. Aside from her bachelor of laws from UNB, she holds a bachelor of arts from Acadia University and earned her executive coaching certification from Royal Roads University.
"I have had a bit of an unconventional law career but when I look back, I have applied the same skills time and again, regardless of what iteration of my professional journey I was on -lots of listening, problem solving, consensus building, hard work, patience, empathy and confident decision-making -all relevant at a board table," she said.
Knox's career encompassed healthcare, education and government, notably serving as the inaugural CEO of the Nova Scotia Health Authority. Aside from her bachelor of nursing from UNB, she holds a master of nursing from Dalhousie University and a master of business administration from Saint Mary's University. She is also a certified health executive.
"I've worked with and chaired boards, taught at three universities and led health organizations," she said. "These experiences helped me understand the relationship between communities and government, which are transferable skills to the governor role."
A shared commitment to giving back
"I'm a very proud graduate of UNB Law," Hoyt said. "When I was asked to join the board, I had a bit of a mission in mind: to help reimagine the law school. It's been an absolute pleasure to reconnect with the university and contribute to its future."
Knox shares a similar motivation.
"After retiring, I reflected on the strong foundation UNB gave me as a student preparing for a career in health," she said. "When I saw a call for alumni to serve, I knew this was a meaningful way to give back to the organization that had supported me."
Looking toward UNB's future
Both leaders are energized by UNB's strategic direction.
"We have a duty to ensure UNB's strong and sustainable future," Hoyt said. "UNB Toward 2030 is bold and relevant. Change in universities can be slow, but President Mazerolle and his team have been focused on moving it forward."
Hoyt also highlighted UNB's growing presence in communities across the province.
"I'm excited about the ways we're continuing to bring UNB into our local communities," she said. "The Promise Partnership in Saint John and Moncton, the Fredericton Downtown Health Centre and the UNB Legal Clinic are just a few examples where UNB students are already showing up and making direct and lasting impacts."
"These initiatives reflect UNB's commitment to doing more, not just within the classroom, but in the communities we serve," Hoyt said.
Knox agrees.
"UNB's contributions to the social and economic prosperity of New Brunswick and Canada continue to grow," she said. "Our researchers are generating the knowledge we need to succeed, and their impact will continue to shape the way we live."
Advice for the next generation
With decades of leadership and a strong connection to UNB, Hoyt and Knox share advice for students and emerging professionals looking to make their mark.
"Be open and authentic," Hoyt said. "Embrace change. Dream big, but never forget where you started. Feedback is your friend. And most importantly, enjoy what you do."
Knox encourages students to follow their interests and seek mentorship.
"Don't fear challenges; we learn from every experience. And be good to yourself. Find strategies that support your health and happiness in your career and in life."
And in return, Hoyt and Knox listen to and learn from the unique perspectives UNB students bring to the table.
"Our student representatives on the board are incredibly valued," Hoyt said. "They bring forward the issues that matter most to students and ensure those voices are heard."
Both Hoyt and Knox remember well the strong foundation a UNB education provides: one that empowers students to advocate for what matters and inspires lifelong commitment to the university's growth and success.
"I'm thankful for the strong start UNB gave me and proud of all it has accomplished," Knox said. "It's a privilege to support the university in this way and help shape its future."
Meet the board
UNB's board of governors is made up of dedicated leaders who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the university's strategic direction. Learn more about our board members and their work.
