On June 22, Shauneen Bruder chaired her last meeting of the University’s Board of Governors. A long-standing governor, she served on the Board for the last decade, including serving as chair since 2019.

“U of G is such an important part of my life,” said Bruder, who graduated in 1980 with a BA (Hons.) in psychology and geography. “It has been an honour to serve the University and I am grateful to my fellow governors, the leadership team, and faculty, staff and students from across U of G’s campuses for the support and guidance they have provided during my time on the Board.”

President Dr. Charlotte Yates expressed her appreciation for Bruder’s dedication and leadership during her term as chair, including having helped to steer the University through challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“A trailblazer throughout her career, Shauneen has equally been a change-maker as chair of the Board of Governors, focusing our minds on the key objectives before the University and allowing us to move forward through challenges while embracing opportunities,” said Yates. “Shauneen is a shining example of what is possible when you combine a U of G education with tenacity, ingenuity and a commitment to community and good governance. I am grateful for the leadership she provided the U of G community through an unprecedented time in University and world history.”

Over the past decade, Bruder has chaired multiple Board committees and stewarded several key initiatives. She chaired the search committee for U of G’s ninth president and vice-chancellor and launched a comprehensive review of the Board’s recruitment and membership practices to promote Indigenization, equity, diversity and inclusion.

Says Bruder, “The University of Guelph is a special place. Faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners alike know that there is something unique about our community that draws people in and keeps them engaged. As I conclude my time on the Board, I cannot help but be excited about the University’s future as we work together toward our shared mission to improve life.”

Nancy Brown Andison, B.Sc. (Agr.) ’79, will become chair of the Board of Governors on Sept. 1.