The University of Guelph has reappointed Dr. Ben Bradshaw as assistant vice-president (graduate studies) and has named Dr. Richard Zytner as the incoming interim dean in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS).
Bradshaw’s new five-year term began Oct. 17. The decision followed a review by a committee of faculty, students and staff chaired by Dr. Gwen Chapman, provost and vice-president (academic).
Chapman commended Bradshaw for building and enhancing the graduate studies portfolio, particularly in supporting new programming, student recruitment and good governance.
“During the pandemic, Ben has shown great leadership and commitment to maintaining excellence and to ensuring that graduate students have the support and resources to navigate these uncertain times,” she said.
“His reappointment will allow him to continue the evolution of graduate studies, working with colleagues and stakeholders to increase U of G’s reputation internationally and nationally.”
Bradshaw was first appointed to the position in 2016. A professor in the Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics since 2004, he has served as acting department chair, as graduate program chair, and as a member of the University’s Strategic Renewal Advisory Committee.
He completed his doctorate in rural resource evaluation and environmental analysis at U of G in 1999, and held a faculty appointment at Simon Fraser University before returning to U of G.
Dr. Richard Zytner has been named CEPS interim dean, effective Dec. 1.
In making the announcement, Chapman thanked Dr. Gerarda Darlington, a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and CEPS’s former associate dean (academic), for serving as interim dean since July 2020. Darlington’s term ends Dec. 31, and she did not wish to further extend her appointment in this role. Darlington and Zytner will serve jointly as interim deans Dec. 1-31 to aid in the leadership transition.
Zytner, who served previously as interim dean in 2017, will hold the position until December 2022 or until a new dean is appointed.
Zytner joined the School of Engineering in 1991. He studies soil remediation technology, landfill gas management and wastewater treatment in the fresh-cut fruit and vegetable sector. He is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario, Engineers Canada, the International Water Association, the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, and the German Association for Water, Wastewater and Waste.
He received his PhD from the University of Windsor in 1988 and worked in the private sector as a project manager and engineering consultant.
“We appreciate Richard’s willingness to serve in this position,” Chapman said. “CEPS will benefit from his experience and knowledge during this interim period.”