Laurie Arnott has been named as the new assistant vice-president (faculty and academic staff relations) at the University of Guelph. She begins her position Sept. 9.

The announcement was made today by Charlotte Yates, provost and vice-president (academic).

“Laurie brings a wealth of experience with her to this important leadership position,” Yates said.

“She has worked in labour- and employer-related issues in the university sector for the past 15 years, including 12 years at U of G. Her experience as an attorney, in human rights and equity, and in faculty relations and university labour issues will be a tremendous asset. We are delighted to welcome her back to Guelph.”

Arnott is currently director of faculty relations at Western University. She worked at U of G from 2003 to 2015 as a human rights and equity consultant and as a senior consultant on faculty and academic staff relations

She also worked as legal counsel for employment and human rights at the University of Waterloo, and taught in the human rights theory and practice certificate program at Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto.

Arnott holds a BA in history from U of G and a law degree from Western.

In making today’s announcement, Yates thanked Tracey Jandrisits, founding assistant vice-president (faculty and academic staff relations), who will take early retirement Sept. 1 after 32 years of service. Yates cited Jandrisits’ “outstanding contributions to positive academic labour relations and exceptional leadership during times of change.” A celebration to mark Jandrisits’ contributions and leadership will be held Sept. 10