Toronto – James Downey, President of the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario, today announced the appointment of Ken Norrie as the Council’s first Vice President (Research), effective immediately.
“I am pleased that someone with such a distinguished record of achievements has accepted the position of Vice President (Research),” said Dr. Downey. “Ken Norrie has been a leader in the pursuit of excellence in higher education and is one of Canada’s foremost economists. His enthusiasm and experience in working with colleges, universities, faculty associations and student groups make him the ideal person to lead our research program on higher education.”
Dr. Norrie is professor of economics at McMaster University and has served as Provost and Vice President (Academic) at McMaster, where he was active in promoting enquiry-based learning and in developing new partnerships with Mohawk College. Over the course of his career he has been co-Director of Research (Economics) for the Macdonald Royal Commission, editor of Canadian Public Policy, Clifford Clark Visiting Economist in the federal Department of Finance, and Dean of Arts at the University of Alberta.
“The social and economic importance of higher education has never been greater,” said Dr. Norrie. “I am looking forward to working with experts from across Ontario and Canada and internationally in pursuit of the Council’s mission.”
“I am delighted to welcome Ken Norrie to the Council’s staff,” said the Honourable Frank Iacobucci, chair of the Council. “With Jim Downey as President and Ken Norrie as Vice President (Research), the Council will have the senior leadership we need to do the important work that the province expects of us.”
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.