York University's Board of Governors appointed Kathleen Taylor as York's 14th chancellor to a three-year term, effective Jan. 1, 2023. The appointment follows outgoing Chancellor Gregory Sorbara, who was first appointed in 2014 and is leaving the role after more than nine years of distinguished service to York.
The chancellor holds the University's top ceremonial position in York's governance structure and is a member of the Board of Governors. Serving as a connector, inspiring leader, and respected member of the community, the role is important to the University, and students, in particular. A core responsibility is the conferring of degrees on thousands of accomplished new graduates at convocation ceremonies every fall and spring. York's 2023 Spring Convocation will mark the first for Taylor as chancellor.
Throughout her global career, and across the many and varied positive contributions as a volunteer and board member, Taylor has demonstrated her commitment to supporting efforts that advance a thriving future for all.
"On behalf of York's Board of Governors, and as a proud York alumnus myself, I'm delighted to announce that Kathleen Taylor has been appointed as York's chancellor and a member of the board," said Paul Tsaparis, Chair, Board of Governors, "Through her extraordinary leadership in the public and private sector, in paving the way for increased diversity and representation on boards, and through her work with the Hospital for Sick Children, Kathleen exemplifies the daily work of creating positive change."
The first woman to serve as Chair of the board of a major bank in Canada, Taylor's appointment as York's new chancellor also marks the first time a woman will serve in the role.
"In addition to an illustrious career that has spanned many industries, Kathleen Taylor has tirelessly served her local and global communities in an extraordinary capacity, advocating for more diverse representation in her professional and personal pursuits," said Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor. "It is no surprise that she chose to study at York. She knows us well and has remained actively engaged with our community. She will be an inspiration in her new role as chancellor, and I am looking forward to working with her in driving the positive change for which York is known."
"I am honoured and excited to take on this important role with York University. Many lessons I learned at York - in the classroom and on campus - continue to inspire me today," said Taylor. "York is a unique place where academic opportunities align with passion and ideas that can have a positive impact on the world. The result is a globally engaged University where the value of a degree is enhanced through unparalleled commitment to access to education, incredible research, and a bold determination to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world. I am delighted to join York's talented leadership team and the Board to build on this important mission."
An esteemed York alumna, Taylor holds a Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall Law School and a master of business administration from the Schulich School of Business. She also serves as a member of Schulich School of Business Dean's Advisory Council. Unafraid of breaking downs barriers, Taylor shares York's vision to "right the future."
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
