Become a Laurier Board of Governors Member

The volunteer members of the Board of Governors play a valuable role in supporting Laurier’s current and future success. The Governance Committee of the Board annually reviews Board member terms and upcoming vacancies, and looks at factors such as leadership experience, community connections, areas of professional expertise, location, gender equity and diversity.

The committee has identified key attributes and skills needed on the Board. Please take a moment to consider if you can recommend individuals who might bring strategic value to the role of the Board. 

Required attributes and skills

• Proven strategic leadership 
• Strong relationship building and collaboration
• Adaptability
• Excellent communication skills 
• Diversity of thought/perspective
• Related governance experience on corporate or community boards
• An understanding of higher education
• Availability to attend and actively participate
• Understanding of a complex, multi-stakeholder environment

Desired skills

• Major financial acumen (e.g. CPA and/or CFO role)
• Human resources/labour relations expertise
• Legal expertise, with a preference for lawyers
• Fundraising and development
• Commercial real estate and facilities development

Why become a Board member? 

• Be part of a thriving community
• Contribute to the success of the university
• Help advance Laurier’s vision and mission and Laurier Strategy
• Play a crucial role in the future of the university, an institution that helps develop thoughtful, caring citizens and a strong future talent pool

Board member responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and perspective
• Respect confidentiality and conflict of interest
• Act in the best interests of the university
• Consider the interests of all stakeholders
• Prepare for Board and Board committee meetings
• Attend meetings regularly
• Act honestly and in good faith
• Participate constructively
• Be an enthusiastic supporter of the university

Time Commitment

• Five Board meetings per year (in person encouraged)
• Typically 2:00-6:00pm
• 3-year term (renewable)
• Ad-hoc meetings as they arise
• Serve on at least one to two standing committees (meet virtually 4-5 times per year)
• Serve on ad hoc committees as required

How to Apply

Please click here to access the nominations form.

About the Board of Governors

Laurier is governed by a bicameral system, consisting of the Senate and the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors is made up of 34 members representing a range of stakeholders including faculty, students, staff, alumni, and the broader community. The Wilfrid Laurier University Act outlines the responsibilities between the two governing bodies and the role of the President. The Board oversees the strategic direction of the University in conjunction with the strategic academic direction set by the Senate. The Board also provides oversight on areas of financial sustainability, reputation, risk, and operations in support of strategic goals.

The Board has six standing committees and a subcommittee that meet on a regular basis throughout the year to review and recommend action in the areas within the control of the Board of Governors. Members hold the responsibility of putting the interests of Laurier first while also balancing the interests of any constituent group they represent.

About Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University is committed to academic excellence. Laurier’s holistic approach to learning integrates innovative programming with hands-on experience outside the classroom to ensure Laurier graduates are not only ready for the future but are inspired to leave their mark on the world. Community is at the heart of everything the university does. Laurier inspires students to engage in campus life and the broader community, leading to high levels of student satisfaction and engaged alumni who carry the Laurier legacy throughout the world. As a community of researchers, leaders and educators, Laurier builds knowledge that serves society and creates connections that have a lasting impact.