She will be the first woman to helm the institution
Marie-Eve Sylvestre has been elected the University of Ottawa's president and vice-chancellor - the first woman to helm the institution in its history.
She will officially become the university's 31st president on July 1, replacing outgoing president Jacques Frémont. She will serve in the role for five years.
"It’s a great honour and privilege to lead the institution that has been my home for 20 years. Walking on our main campus every day, I’m struck by how far we’ve come as a community," Sylvestre said in a statement. "Together, we have transformed this university into one of the top five research-intensive universities in Canada, one that attracts students and researchers from 150 countries to the very heart of our nation’s capital. We will continue to build on the momentum created by our current president and vice-chancellor, Jacques Frémont."
Sylvestre indicated that the university was "eager to partner with governments, community groups, international organizations and the private sector to meet the greatest societal challenges of our time." She highlighted climate change, international trade, housing, food insecurity, democracy and governance, and progressing technology like quantum and artificial intelligence as examples of such challenges.
Sylvestre commenced with the university in 2005 as a professor. In 2019, she became dean of the faculty of law's civil law section.
"Professor Sylvestre began her career at the University of Ottawa in 2005 and brings a deep commitment to the institution, a distinguished record as a researcher in law, and valuable experience on international committees. Her dedication to forging new partnerships, developing innovative programs for students, and, above all, her collaborative and relationship-driven leadership style will serve the university well as we continue to grow as a hub of innovation, research, and lifelong learning," said Jennifer Adams, Chair of the Board of Governors of the University of Ottawa, in a statement.
Sylvestre's appointment followed a comprehensive six-month selection process conducted by the university's 14-strong presidential selection committee. The committee consulted with internal and external members of the university's wider community and was aided by an external firm.
University of Ottawa's board of governors approved the appointment on Tuesday.
"It has been the honour of my professional life to lead this great institution to new heights over the last nine years, I have been inspired every day by the talent and dedication of our students, faculty and staff. At the end of June, I will pass the baton to Marie-Eve, knowing that our community will have in her a visionary leader and bridge-builder able to tap into the creative energy of this unique place and continue the forward momentum in which we are all invested," Frémont said. "I congratulate her on her appointment and wish her and our community much success in the years to come."
