Jonathan Newman, dean of the College of Biological Science (CBS), has been named vice-president, research, at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo. He begins his appointment Aug. 1.

“Jonathan has made many significant contributions to University leadership over his 15 years at U of G,” said Charlotte Yates, provost and vice-president (academic). “He has nurtured research and teaching excellence among faculty, supported student success and raised the international profile of the College of Biological Science.

“We are sorry to see him go. This is, however, a wonderful new leadership opportunity that reflects Jonathan’s talent and potential for leadership success. We wish him well as he takes on this new prestigious position.”

Yates commended Newman as a strong and compassionate leader. “His passion and vision for post-secondary education have helped expand and enhance the college’s research and fundraising, innovative programming and recruitment of excellent students.”

A U of G professor since 2004, Newman became CBS dean in 2015.

“I am very grateful for my time at the University of Guelph,” Newman said.

“For the past 15 years, it has been a pleasure and an honour to serve alongside the dedicated staff and faculty. Their professionalism and their friendship have made my time here fun, productive and worthwhile.”

At U of G, Newman founded and headed the School of Environmental Sciences in the Ontario Agricultural College. He also chaired the former Department of Environmental Biology from April 2008 to August 2009.

He has served as a member of the University’s Board of Governors and as U of G’s Academic Colleague with the Council of Ontario Universities.