THUNDER BAY – The new chair of Lakehead University’s board of governors has begun her work.
Maria Vasanelli, a member of the board since 2015, has a long background in education, including serving as a superintendent with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, superintendent of education with the Durham Catholic District School Board, and as director of strategic initiatives and professional learning at Lakehead University.
She is currently the Director of Education at the Superior North Catholic District School Board and a member of the Ontario College of Teachers Council.
Vasanelli is also an alumna of Lakehead University, having earned her B.A. in Philosophy and Bachelor of Education from the school. She also holds a Master of Education from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Business Administration from Cape Breton University.
Lakehead president Moira McPherson said that background would serve as a major asset.
“Maria’s experience, both as a former employee at our university and as a senior administrator at three distinctive school boards in the province, will serve her and Lakehead well as she brings her leadership and passion for education to her new role,” she said in a statement.
Vasanelli said she welcomes the assignment.
“As an alumna of Lakehead University, I am honoured by the opportunity to serve as its next board chair,” Vasanelli said. “I look forward to working with my fellow governors and the president to ensure an inclusive, transparent, fair, and responsive approach to university governance.”
Vasanelli’s two-year appointment was ratified by the board in June, and became effective last week. She succeeds Angela Maltese in the role.
