The University of New Brunswick is pleased to announce that Kathryn Lockhart will join UNB as the new executive director of the McKenna Institute, effective Nov. 10.
Lockhart brings a wealth of experience in scaling early-stage technology companies and, through this work, has helped grow the regional innovation ecosystem. As the current CEO of Propel, Atlantic Canada's virtual accelerator, she supports over 110 companies annually, empowering founders and fostering a vibrant startup culture. She is also a managing partner at WEL Atlantic (Women's Equity Lab), where she champions women-led startups, and is a member of the International Women's Foundation.
Her leadership was instrumental in launching Startup Atlantic, a pan-regional brand uniting the region's startup community. Lockhart's previous roles include vice-president of growth and corporate strategy at JVPLabs, a MedTech startup, and strategic leadership positions in Europe and across Canada. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and is a proud alum of UNB's Renaissance College, now the School of Leadership Studies.
"UNB is pleased to welcome Kathryn Lockhart to the McKenna Institute," said Paul J. Mazerolle, president and vice chancellor of UNB. "Her deep experience, collaborative spirit, and commitment to innovation make her the ideal leader to build on the strong foundation already in place. I'm excited to see how Kathryn will continue the institute's momentum and take it to new heights."
Lockhart succeeds Adrienne Oldford, who has served as executive director since the institute's founding in 2021. Appointed to help realize Frank McKenna's renewed vision for digital transformation in New Brunswick, Oldford has led the McKenna Institute through a period of remarkable growth and impact. Under her leadership, the institute has launched major initiatives in artificial intelligence, digital health, education, and agriculture, while forging strong partnerships across sectors.
Oldford will transition from leadership over the coming months, with her departure from UNB planned in early 2026. She will continue to support the institute as an advisor and as a member of the McKenna Institute Legacy Board.
"Adrienne has been a transformative leader for the McKenna Institute," said Frank McKenna, founder and benefactor of the Institute. "Her vision, energy, and commitment have helped bring our digital ambitions for New Brunswick to life. I am deeply grateful for her leadership and the lasting impact she has made on our province's future."
The McKenna Institute was established to position New Brunswick as a national and global leader in digital transformation. With Kathryn Lockhart at the helm, the institute will continue to drive innovation, foster inclusive growth and empower communities across the province.
For more information, visit the McKenna Institute.
