The University of Guelph has re-elected Dr. Mary Anne Chambers as chancellor.
Named U of G's 10th chancellor in 2022, Chambers has made a positive impact on the University and its students, says Dr. Rene Van Acker, interim president and vice-chancellor.
"Chambers' leadership, advocacy and unwavering commitment to the University's mission have elevated the role of chancellor and strengthened the University's connections with our students, faculty, staff, alumni and broader community," Van Acker says.
"Her dedication to fostering excellence, championing equity and inclusion, and celebrating the achievements of others are invaluable and we're thrilled to have her continue in the role."
A true champion of U of G
Demonstrating a personal commitment to supporting students and advocating for equity-deserving communities on campus, Chambers has supported key institutional initiatives including the Graduate Mentorship Program, the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences (CSAHS) student and faculty awards, the Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics' Economics and Finance Chair's recognition of high achieving scholars and the Black Faculty and Staff Network.
She prioritizes celebrating those whose achievements elevate the University, encouraging students to strive for greatness.
By representing U of G and its vision at public engagements such as the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and the Arrell Food Summit, Chambers has further strengthened the University's reputation as a global leader in education, research and academic excellence.
"It is with great pride that I have served as chancellor of the University of Guelph for the last three years," Chambers says. "That pride has also been shared with me by students and alumni across the Guelph, Ridgetown and Guelph Humber campuses and is reflected every day in the inspiring contributions and achievements of our University's exceptional staff, faculty and administration.
"I very much appreciate the confidence that has been placed in me and I am fully committed to doing my part to support the University of Guelph's mission to Improve Life."
Long career of advocacy
A member of the Order of Ontario, Chambers brings experience from a long career of advocating for education and community to her work as chancellor.
Highlights include her work as a senior vice-president at Scotiabank and later as an Ontario minister of training, colleges and universities; serving on U of G's Board of Governors from 2010 to 2016; and personally funding more than 70 scholarships and bursaries for Ontario university and college students, including a scholarship for Black students in CSAHS.
Chambers will continue to preside at convocations as chancellor, conferring all University degrees, providing strategic advice to the president and acting as ambassador. She will further represent U of G's interests in the broader community as its senior volunteer and serve as an ex-officio voting member of the University's Senate and Board of Governors.
