Ontario Tech appoints new chancellor

Ontario Tech University has appointed a new chancellor.

Mitch Frazer was appointed the university’s fourth chancellor recently by the board of governors. He assumes the role effective immediately and will be formally installed at a ceremony to be announced at a later date.

The chancellor traditionally presides over convocation and confers all degrees, honorary degrees, certificates, and diplomas on behalf of the university.

“I am honoured to become Ontario Tech University’s fourth Chancellor,” says Frazer. “I look forward to playing an active role in its vibrant campus community, while helping the university to advance its priorities, and supporting and mentoring students and alumni to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world.”

Frazer is a distinguished Toronto-based lawyer, who is a partner and the chair of the Pensions and Employment Practice at Torys LLP. His extensive involvement in education at all levels includes establishing the National Institute on Ageing at Ryerson University’s Ted Rogers School of Management, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law an Adjunct Professor at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School.

He is the immediate past chair of the Toronto French School (TFS) Board of Directors, a former member of the Board of Trustees of the Ontario Science Centre and is at the end of his term as a member of Ryerson University’s Board of Governors.

“On behalf of Ontario Tech University’s Board of Governors, I’d like to thank Mr. Frazer for joining our campus community. His enthusiasm for mentoring students, coupled with his philanthropic experience will greatly benefit our institution,” says Board of Governors Chair Doug Allingham. “We are fortunate to have a committed champion of our university become its fourth chancellor,” adding in welcoming Frazer, the board acknowledges and thanks Noreen Taylor “for her many years of dedicated service to the university’s students, faculty and staff,” Allingham continues.

“She will always have a special connection to the university’s roots and proud history.”

Frazer advocates for the pursuit of tech with a conscience, which includes supporting the establishment of world-leading tech start-ups in Canada, states an Ontario Tech press release.

He currently serves as the chair of the North York General Foundation Board, the chair of the TFS Foundation Board and as a member of the Sick Kids Hospital Foundation Campaign Cabinet.

“Chancellor Frazer’s leadership in education combined with his passion for students will bring an even further engaging spirit to our campus community,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Steven Murphy.

“His passion for technological and social innovation in teaching and experiential learning naturally aligns with Ontario Tech University’s tech with a conscience priority,” he continues. “Chancellor Frazer sees a bright future for our institution; one that embraces emerging ideas and encourages experimentation. We appreciate Mitch’s commitment to our campus community as we continue to tell our university’s amazing story.”