WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg’s Board of Regents and Senate have jointly elected well-known Winnipeg business and community leader Robert (Bob) Silver to serve as the University’s 7th Chancellor, effective July 1, 2009. Silver is President of Western Glove Works, co-owner of the Warehouse One retail chain, and co-owner of the Winnipeg Free Press and Brandon Sun. In addition, Silver is an active volunteer in our community, having chaired last year’s United Way campaign and offered his skills and insights as co-chair of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, co-chair of the Winnipeg Library Foundation, and board member with the Canadian Apparel Federation and Destination Winnipeg.
Dynamic Vision for the Future
“I am deeply honoured to be asked to take on this prestigious role,” says Silver. “I look forward to the challenge of doing my part to help enhance and improve the educational component of this city and this province. The University of Winnipeg has a dynamic vision for the future in not only its academic programs, but also for the wider community and the renewal of downtown Winnipeg. I am pleased to be part of it.”
The position of Chancellor is a volunteer, renewable three-year term. Primary responsibilities include participating in Convocations and conferring degrees, participating in meetings of the Board of Regents, Senate, and committees, as well as assisting with government relations and promotion of the University.
Keen Understanding
“Bob Silver has a keen understanding of the unique role that UWinnipeg can and is playing in the inner city, both in downtown redevelopment and in reaching out to remove barriers for students who are under-represented on campus,” said Lloyd Axworthy, President & Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg. “I have been struck by his deep interest in the challenges facing higher education, and as co-chair of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, he has consistently promoted the position of universities in the community and their need for effective support.”
Silver will succeed H. Sanford Riley, who has served with great distinction as Chancellor of UWinnipeg for three full terms, beginning in July 2000. Riley will preside over the University’s Spring Convocation in June, while Silver assumes those duties at the Fall Convocation in October.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Diane Poulin, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7135, C: 204.293.1167, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
