THUNDER BAY — Lakehead University is welcoming a new board chairperson.
The post-secondary school's board of governors has appointed Cathy Tuckwell to the role, effective Oct. 9, until 2026.
She succeeds Maria Vasanelli, who joined the school's board in 2015.
"I want to begin by acknowledging past-chair Maria Vasanelli. Her leadership throughout the latter half of the presidential search and during the university’s leadership transition was a model of thoughtful decision-making and consensus-building,” Tuckwell said in a news release.
“After last year’s Blue Ribbon Task Force report, it is clear that universities, including Lakehead, must take steps to secure a stronger influence over their future. We all want Lakehead to thrive and be sustainable in the long term; as board chair, I look forward to working with the board, Dr. Siddall and her team — faculty, staff, Ogimaawin Indigenous Education Council, and the Lakehead University Student Union — to ensure Lakehead remains a vital contributor to both the Thunder Bay and Orillia communities," she said.
Originally elected to the board in 2017, Tuckwell has served in various capacities during the last seven years including vice-chairperson (2022-2024) and member of the finance and operations committee, governance and nominating committee, learning and liaison committee, and audit and risk committee.
She brings more than 27 years of experience in the investment management industry to the board, specializing in high-net-worth individuals, institutions, mutual fund management, and estate and trust administration.
“Cathy’s vast professional experience will prove valuable as we work to put Lakehead on a sustainable path within an environment of fiscal restraint that is impacting the entire post-secondary sector, at the same time as generating enthusiasm for Lakehead’s future as we embark on our next ambitious strategic plan,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, president and vice-chancellor of the university. “I look forward to working alongside Cathy as we continue to elevate our university, support our students, and shape a brighter future together.”
Professionally, Tuckwell has served as president of the Edmonton Society of Financial Analysts, chairperson of the Canadian Council of Financial Analysts, and most recently as chairperson of the Compliance Officer Network for the Portfolio Management Association of Canada.
It has not been all work and no play for Tuckerwell as she's also served as a volunteer with Squash Canada in various capacities, including VP High Performance and representative at the Canadian Olympic Committee, and still plays competitive doubles squash.
With Tuckwell stepping into the role of chairperson, Mark Smith will become vice-chairperson.
New members to the board this year include Robert Lamb, Dr. Leigh Potvin, Yolanda Wanakamik and Simran Talpade.
