Harpreet Hansra, the University of Guelph’s general counsel, will serve as interim university secretary beginning July 24.

She will replace Genevieve Gauthier-Chalifour, who is leaving the University July 21. Gauthier-Chalifour joined U of G in 2006 and served as university secretary since 2017.

In making the announcement, president and vice-chancellor Dr. Charlotte Yates thanked Gauthier-Chalifour for her years of service and support and acknowledged the impact on the University of her leadership and stewardship and her governance expertise.  

As interim university secretary, Hansra will oversee the Office of Legal Counsel and University Secretariat. Dr. Ted Cogan, associate university secretary, will serve as deputy university secretary to manage day-to-day operations.

Hansra brings comprehensive experience in advising on governance and compliance. As general counsel, she routinely reports to the Board of Governors on legal and risk issues.   

Before arriving at U of G in 2022, she was chief legal and risk officer for the William Osler Health System in Brampton, Ont., where she was a member of the senior leadership team.

Cogan has worked with the University Secretariat since 2017. He has served as special projects assistant, assistant university secretary and university records officer and, most recently, associate university secretary (compliance and special projects).

The University Secretariat advises and supports the Board of Governors and Senate, and oversees key University-wide compliance functions, including Student Judicial Services, records management, access to information and privacy.