Charlotte Yates appointed president and vice-chancellor of U of G

After fulfilling her responsibilities as president and vice-chancellor on a one-year interim basis, Charlotte Yates will officially serve the role for a five-year term

As of Aug. 17, 2021, Dr. Charlotte Yates begins her five-year term as ninth president and vice-chancellor of the University of Guelph.

According to a U of G news release, Yates had been fulfilling the role on an interim basis since August of 2020 when Franco Vaccarino’s term ended, and she had also been U of G’s provost and vice-president (academic) before that.

Additionally, she served as dean of the faculty of social sciences and was a faculty member in the department of political science and labour studies program at McMaster University.

“A nationally recognized expert on labour issues and the Canadian automotive industry, Yates’ research and contributions have been recognized by leading academic organizations including the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Canadian Industrial Relations Association,” said the release.

Now, her appointment as president and vice-chancellor is official and approved by the university’s Board of Governors on the recommendation of the Presidential Selection Committee. Yates is the first woman to ever hold the position in U of G history.

Shauneen Bruder, chair of the Board of Governors, said in the release that during her time as interim president Yates has advanced U of G’s efforts in academics, research, equity, diversity, and inclusion while simultaneously guiding the university through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Dr. Yates’s knowledge of the University and broader sector will allow her to focus and act strategically on critical priorities. She is deeply committed to our students, staff and faculty and has a strong connection with the University’s external constituencies,” said Bruder.

“Her experience, vision and dedication make her the right person to lead U of G during this pivotal time and into the future.”