The University of Guelph has named Daniel Atlin as its new vice-president (external) effective March 16. The announcement was made today by president Franco Vaccarino, who chaired the search committee.
Atlin is currently vice-president, strategy and college affairs, at Seneca College, with more than 25,000 full-time students at campuses throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
“Daniel will be an outstanding addition to the University of Guelph family,” Vaccarino said. “He brings extensive experience in government relations, communications and development, and understands the complexities and challenges of higher-education administration.”
“He also has a bold vision for our future in terms of fundraising and partnerships, and is an excellent communicator with a calm demeanour, strong work ethic, and a commitment to collegiality and collaboration. I am delighted that he is joining our team.”
At Seneca, Atlin has overseen strategic external relationships and government relations activities, including the departments of advancement and alumni, strategic planning and public affairs, and marketing and communications.
In the position since 2009, he has developed numerous successful policy and funding submissions for government support, including securing a significant capital investment from the province to expand Seneca’s King’s campus.
He launched a multi-year fundraising and alumni relations strategy and capital campaign; oversaw the development of a new strategic plan; managed brand positioning; created media strategies and platforms; and formed new strategic and community partnerships.
At U of G, Atlin will oversee the Department of Alumni Affairs and Development, the Department of Communications and Public Affairs, and government and community relations. He will lead development of public and private philanthropic support for the University, and build relationships with key stakeholders.
“I am very excited by the prospect of moving to and living in Guelph, and contributing to a community that is at the forefront of sustainability, entrepreneurship and social justice,” Atlin said.
He plans to work with administrators, faculty, students, alumni and others to nurture and grow the University’s reputation and network.
“I strongly support the visionary statement made by President Vaccarino during his installation: ‘Our changing world needs more of the University of Guelph.’ I look forward to being part of the team helping bring the University to the world.”
At Seneca, Atlin was also responsible for the student affairs division from 2010 to 2013 while holding the portfolio of strategy and college affairs.
Previously, he was assistant vice-president, government, institutional and community relations, at the University of Toronto and vice-president, corporate services and corporate secretary, at the Credit Union Central of Ontario. He was also a policy adviser and communications assistant to the Ontario Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.