University of Manitoba elects new chancellor
With the election of celebrated writer, volunteer, philanthropist and alumna Anne Mahon as its new chancellor, the University of Manitoba affirms its abiding commitment to forge empowering connections with communities near and far.
Ms. Mahon’s election as the University of Manitoba’s 14th chancellor was announced today by Jeff Lieberman, Chair of the Board of Governors. Effective June 1, 2019 for a three-year term, she succeeds the current chancellor, Dr. Harvey Secter.
“I am honoured to share the news today of the election of Ms. Mahon as the next chancellor of the University of Manitoba,” said Mr. Lieberman. “I know she will serve as a tremendous champion of this institution and of higher education generally.”
“As historian W.L. Morton once explained, the chancellor is ‘the University’s best friend in the world,’” said Dr. Secter, who has served as chancellor with distinction since 2010, “and Ms. Mahon will certainly serve in this important role with strength and passion.”
The chancellor is the ceremonial head of the university, responsible for conferring all degrees and diplomas. The Chancellor Search Committee identified the capacity to serve as an ambassador for the University in the broader community and to contribute meaningfully to University governance as key election criteria.
Ms. Mahon has demonstrated the ability to connect with people and build trusting relationships. Her two books of oral history amplify the voices of the disempowered (former Winnipeg gang members and African refugees) and speak eloquently to their strength and resilience.
In her volunteer work, Ms. Mahon has lent considerable time and effort to international development, through Humankind International, and to supporting immigrants and refugees through the Immigrant Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba. She has also been involved in numerous philanthropic causes, including UNICEF Canada and the United Way of Winnipeg. She is the founder and co-facilitator of the Book Mates Book Club at the Women’s Correction Centre.
“Anne Mahon’s work in the community as a bridge-builder of integrity and follow-through embodies this university’s commitment to lead, listen and act in partnership with the populations it serves,” said President and Vice-Chancellor David T. Barnard. “I am confident she will inspire a bright future that enhances the institution’s community relevance and engagement.”
Anne Mahon holds a Bachelor of Human Ecology from the University of Manitoba, and has remained connected to the institution and higher education, including as a donor to the University of Winnipeg, the Asper School of Business, St. Paul’s College and the University of Manitoba’s Front and Centre Campaign.
Anne lives in Winnipeg with her husband Paul Mahon, also an alumnus of the University of Manitoba. They have three children.
“I know the University of Manitoba as a graduate, a parent, a donor, and a Manitoban,” Ms. Mahon shared in response to her election. “This institution offers the power of education and opportunity, while being an indispensable intellectual contributor and employer to our city and province. The University’s diversity and inclusion, its possibilities of hope, and its efforts as a catalyst for broad-minded thinking are of great importance to me.”
Anne Mahon will be installed as the University of Manitoba’s next chancellor in a ceremony to be held as part of Spring Convocation in June 2019.
We honor and celebrate your new positon Ms. Mahon. May the Lord guide and increase your wisdom for better policy for the institution.
An excellent choice! Congratulations to Anne Mahon and so well deserved!
Dear Anna, as a proud graduate and donor
I offer my sincere congratulations. I was a neighbor to the esteemed Harvey Secter growing up in Winnipeg, and he has a worthy successor.
You have my best wishes for a happy and successful term. Sincerely, Keith Meloff MD, FRCPC Neurologist Toronto
Our congratulations to you Madam Chancellor.
Trust we will have an opportunity to meet you in person in the National Capital next year! U of M has a lot of friends and graduates here, and in Ontario.
Best wishes to you and much success! And very warm Season Greetings.
Wonderful news! Congratulations! I’m aware that Anne Mahon is a woman with a deep faith who is active in her church. Perhaps it is this faith that is the foundation of her courage and compassion. It’s unfortunate that this important fact was not mentioned in this story.
Ms. Mahon certainly has an array of the requirements the University needs at this time. Her knowledge of the U. from so many perspectives in particular will be invaluable in understanding the changes society expects and perhaps needs at this time. Her stability within Manitoba society itself will be a valued asset .
We were blessed to have the skills, experience and knowledge of Dr. Secter as Chancellor for the past 8 years. He has been a pillar of knowledge and guidance for the University.
The announcement of Ms Anne Mahon as the new Chancellor starting June of 2019 brings a different perspective of skills, experience and knowledge which coincidentally also aligns itself to the university goals of inclusion, celebrating our successes, and sharing our knowledge with the rest of the world.
Ms. Anne Mahon work with refugees, the working poor, and youth will help bring the University to a higher level of engagement with these cohorts and create a broader platform for reconcilliation and education.
Dear Anne
I was surprised and delighted to learn of your election as chancellor of the University. Surprised only because recognition is sometimes given to those whose credentials are primarily in secular pursuits . Not so in your case. I know you have experience and ability in many areas but to me you are a person of conviction and true Christian faith. So glad you are in a position to live your faith in an important role , to the benefit of us all.