As we welcome the start of a new academic year, I’m honoured to begin my tenure as the 8th President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Windsor. Whether you are a returning member of our campus community or joining us for the first time, I extend a warm welcome as we embark on a new chapter together.
To our incoming and continuing students, I was inspired by your energy and passion during the Welcome Week festivities. As you continue your journey, I know you will benefit from the exceptional student supports and campus life activities available to you. I’m proud to be joining a campus community that is climbing in international rankings while fostering a more inclusive, sustainable campus.
In recent years, I know UWindsor – and the entire higher education sector – has faced significant challenges. From a global pandemic to complex budgetary pressures and broader geopolitical shifts, students, faculty, and staff have navigated recent challenges commendably. I have been no stranger to these pressures in my own leadership journey, and am prepared to lend my insight, lessons learned, and vision where they are needed most.
I believe this period of transition presents an opportunity to reimagine the University’s role in the community, in the sector, and in the global marketplace. Through teaching, innovative research, scholarship, and creative activities, we will continue to make a meaningful impact while strengthening relationships with our current and future industry/community partners, alumni, donors, and retirees.
As we move forward together, I invite you to embrace the opportunities ahead. It is my hope to contribute to a campus culture of support and engagement that reflects our shared values and aspirations.
I look forward to connecting with many of you throughout the academic year and working together to advance our academic mission.
J.J. McMurtry, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor