The University of British Columbia Board of Governors today appointed business and community leader, and double alumnus Lindsay Gordon to become the university’s 18th Chancellor on July 1, 2014.
“In Lindsay Gordon, UBC has found a passionate advocate,” said Board chair John Montalbano. “His vast and diverse expertise will bring a global lens to the university.”
The recently retired President and CEO of HSBC Bank Canada enjoyed a 25-year career with the bank, following 10 years in senior roles with Export Development Canada. He has served on the boards of numerous Canadian business and volunteer organizations.
“As an alumnus, I am particularly honoured to be the next Chancellor of UBC, one of the world’s leading universities, and to work with incoming president Arvind Gupta and his team,” said Gordon. “Together we will continue to build on the university’s tradition of excellence in learning, citizenship and research, serving the people of British Columbia, Canada and the world.”
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Following a 1973 B.A. (Economics) and an MBA from the UBC Sauder School of Business in 1976, Gordon has remained closely associated with UBC. He is co-chair of the start an evolution campaign, Canada’s largest fundraising and alumni engagement effort.
Judy Rogers, chair of the UBC Alumni Association Board and of the search committee, made the final recommendation to the Board of Governors. “Heart, wisdom, experience, and commitment – Lindsay has so much to offer UBC,” she said.
Mr. Gordon will replace Sarah Morgan-Silvester who steps down on June 30, 2014 after exemplary service to the university since 2008.
“I have deeply valued Sarah’s wise counsel and principled guidance during our Board deliberations,” said UBC President and Vice-Chancellor Stephen Toope. “I am sure my successor Arvind Gupta will forge with Lindsay Gordon and John Montalbano the kind of bond that will sustain and strengthen UBC.”
Lindsay Gordon is a recipient of the 2010 B’nai Brith Canada Award of Merit and the 2012 Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, awarded to outstanding Canadians. He is married to Elizabeth Gordon and has four children.
Background
The Chancellor is the ceremonial head of the university, conferring all degrees and serving on both the Senate, responsible for the university’s academic governance, and the Board of Governors, responsible for managing the property, revenue, and business affairs of the university.
The 2008 BC University Amendment Act changed the way university chancellors are selected. Following a comprehensive nomination, search and review process, the position is now appointed by the Board of Governors upon nomination by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and after consultation with the Council of Senates. The position of university chancellor remains a three-year term, with the possibility of one consecutive reappointment.
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