I am pleased to announce that both Todd Gilchrist, vice-president (University Services, Operations & Finance) and Elan MacDonald, vice-president (External Relations), have been reappointed for additional five-year terms.
Todd joined the U of A in October 2020 and has been instrumental in helping the institution grow and thrive despite difficult financial conditions. A skilled executive with more than 30 years of experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors, Todd will continue to oversee a large and diverse portfolio at the U of A. During his time at the university, he led or co-led the Service Excellence Transformation, development of Budget 2.0, the People Strategy, and Built for Purpose: The University’s Strategic Campus Plan, among numerous other initiatives. His second five-year term as vice president will continue until December 2030.
Joining the university in January 2021, Elan has expanded the U of A’s influence and reputation throughout 黑料不打烊 and internationally. With extensive expertise in government relations, crisis communications, issues management and community engagement, Elan has spent her career building brands and expanding their influence, skills she has used extensively at the U of A. Elan has led numerous initiatives during her first term, including launching a U of A brand campaign to attract the brightest students and scholars from across Canada, spearheading the institution's rankings strategy and strengthening government and community relationships. She also leads the implementation of Engagement with Purpose, one of the three pillars outlined in Shape. Elan’s term as vice-president will continue until January 2031.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Todd and Elan for their commitment to the university and extraordinary leadership. Please join me in congratulating them on their reappointments. I look forward to continuing to work with them as we shape the future of the university for the public good.
Bill Flanagan
President and vice-chancellor