Toronto – The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario, an independent agency of the Ontario government, today announced that James Downey has joined the Council as its first president and chief executive officer, effective immediately.
“I am delighted that an individual of James Downey’s calibre has accepted the position of president,” said the Honourable Frank Iacobucci, chair of the Council. “His proven leadership skills, enthusiasm and experience in working with colleges and universities will be a tremendous asset as we move forward with our plans for conducting research on higher education, establishing targets for improvement, and reporting on outcomes.”
James Downey has an extensive record of leadership in higher education across Canada and internationally. He has served as president of Carleton University, the University of New Brunswick and the University of Waterloo, and as chair of the Association of Commonwealth Universities. Most recently he has founded and directed Canada’s first centre for the study of co-op education.
“I believe the Council has great potential to help make a fine system of higher education even better,” said Dr. Downey. “I look forward to working with colleges and universities and all others who have an interest in strengthening higher education in Ontario.”
About the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario
The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario is an independent Crown agency dedicated to ensuring the continued improvement of the postsecondary education system in Ontario. The Council’s mandate is to advise the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities on improving all aspects of postsecondary education, including quality, access and accountability. The Council will undertake research and help provide enhanced transparency and accountability through regular public reports.
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