Noreen Taylor named as Chancellor of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology

OSHAWA, ONTARIO –The Board of Governors of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology has appointed Noreen Taylor, CM, as the university’s third Chancellor. Her formal installation will take place in the spring, prior to June’s Convocation, over which she will preside.

Ms. Taylor is an artist, teacher and philanthropist, renowned for her leadership in Canada’s health-care, cultural, educational and horse racing communities. She is the founder of the RBC Taylor Prize for literary non-fiction, and current Chair of the Board of Canadian Stage and Chair of the Board of Saint Elizabeth Health Care. She is the wife of the late Charles Taylor and daughter-in-law of the late E.P. Taylor; she is also the President of Windfields Farm Limited. In 2015, she was named by Governor General David Johnston as a Member of the Order of Canada.

She becomes the third Chancellor in the university’s history, preceded by Perrin Beatty (2008 to 2015) and Lyn McLeod (2003 to 2008). The Chancellor serves as the titular head of the university, presiding over Convocation and conferring all degrees, honorary degrees, certificates and diplomas on behalf of the university.

• Backgrounder - Chancellor Noreen Taylor

Quotes:

“Noreen epitomizes dignity and grace in her relationship with our university as well as in her stewardship of Canadian culture. The Board of Governors thanks her for agreeing to serve our university community, and especially for enhancing her already considerable commitment to students and to the university.”

“In welcoming Ms. Taylor, the Board of Governors acknowledges and thanks Chancellor Beatty for his many years of dedicated service to the university’s students, faculty and staff. He was instrumental in moving the university through its formative years and preparing it well for the future.” Glenna Raymond, Chair, Board of Governors, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

“Our university’s students will experience a vibrant role-model in Noreen Taylor, someone who embraces education with an infectious sense of drive, determination and imagination. Our university community, and indeed Oshawa and surrounding communities, will also embrace Ms. Taylor as part of a family that links our university’s proud history to an inspiring new future.”
Tim McTiernan, PhD, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

“The idea of a University of Ontario Institute of Technology was a subject of fascination long before it ever came into being. My late husband and I were taken by the concept of developing creativity in what had often been considered the less-than-creative sciences.  Following its progress from idea to its current reality has been a pleasure for all of us in the Taylor family. I am very pleased and proud to continue my involvement as the university now moves into its successful future.” Noreen Taylor, Chancellor, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

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