Western University is pleased to announce Linda Hasenfratz will serve as the University’s 23rd Chancellor.
As CEO of one of the world’s most successful manufacturing companies, Hasenfratz brings a wealth of international experience and a dynamic, energetic style of leadership to Western that will benefit the University at home and on the world stage.
A Western alumna, and member of the Ivey Business School Advisory Board, she has long been a keen supporter of Western and regularly shares her advice, strategic thinking and creativity with students, faculty and researchers.
“I am incredibly honoured to be appointed to this role,” said Hasenfratz. “Western is a world-class institution making a tremendous impact through its talent, expertise and influence. I’m looking forward to working with the entire Western community to help ensure that success continues to grow.”
A member of the Canadian Business Hall of Fame, Hasenfratz has been widely recognized for contributions to Canadian business and for her commitments to the community.
She has played a key role in helping Western encourage more women to enter the fields of engineering and business and, in addition to her leadership role, will serve as a valuable role model for Western students.
“Linda exemplifies the type of graduates Western prepares for the world,” said Western President Amit Chakma. “She is an extraordinary talent, and highly-respected among education and business leaders alike. She has been a close friend of Western for many years and we are looking forward to the leadership she will bring to our institution in her new role.”
As the honorary and symbolic head of the university, the Chancellor presides at Convocation ceremonies to admit candidates to degrees, diplomas and certificates. The position also serves as an ex-officio voting member of the Board of Governors, University Senate and certain committees of both governing bodies. The role of Chancellor traces its roots to the founding of the University, and its inaugural Chancellor, Bishop Isaac Hellmuth.
A committee jointly appointed by the Board of Governors and Senate, whose membership was composed of faculty, staff, students and alumni, unanimously selected Hasenfratz for the position.
As Chancellor, she will succeed Australian businessman Jack Cowin, who will end his term as Chancellor June 28. Hasenfratz will be officially installed during convocation ceremonies in October.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Renaud, Senior Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111, ext. 85165, 519-520-7281 (mobile), jrenaud9@uwo.ca, @jeffrenaud99
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Western University delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.
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