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With over three decades of service and commitment to UNB’s people and mission, Dr. Wilson begins her tenure as acting president and vice chancellor, guiding the university through transition while advancing its core priorities.

Dr. Kathy Wilson, a trusted and longstanding leader at the University of New Brunswick, has begun her tenure as UNB’s acting president and vice chancellor. She brings over 30 years of experience at UNB, along with a strong sense of connection, purpose, shared vision and a commitment to the university’s continued advancement in the areas of education, research, engagement, community and sustainability.

Dr. Wilson first joined UNB’s faculty of nursing in Fredericton in 1990 and has held senior roles across the university. Known for her collaborative approach, clarity and steady leadership, she is well positioned to guide UNB through a period of transition with thoughtfulness and a strong focus on continuity.

This approach has shaped her leadership throughout her career. As UNB’s first vice provost of learning and student experience, and as acting vice president academic (Fredericton), Dr. Wilson played a central role in modernizing teaching and learning at UNB. She championed bi-campus initiatives and guided the implementation of systems that better support students, faculty and staff.

Dr. Wilson credits the leadership of former president and vice chancellor Paul J. Mazerolle. For Dr. Wilson, her role as acting president will be a continuation of that growth and momentum.

Dr. Wilson has considerable experience leading the charge in times of transition and uncertainty. She was responsible for coordinating UNB’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing adoption and growth of online and technology-enhanced academic programming.

“We live in a rapidly changing world. UNB’s programs need to not only reflect today’s landscape but predict and adapt to an environment and workforce that may not currently exist.

“Support for research is equally essential,” she said, stressing UNB’s commitment to ensuring that researchers have access to the resources and partnerships they need to create positive impact.

That support extends to meeting the university’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenization. Dr. Wilson notes the importance of the ongoing work towards Piluwitahasuwawsuwakon and ongoing collaboration with the Piluwitahasuwin, Council of Elders and the Mi’kmaq-Wolastoqey Centre.

Dr. Wilson’s years on the frontlines of UNB’s leadership underpin her understanding of the university's responsibility to ensuring continuity not just for students, faculty, staff and the broader communities, but also to its partners and the essential role of supporting New Brunswick’s economy, labour force, innovation ecosystem and social well-being.

“Strong, collaborative relationships with our partners and surrounding communities cannot be overstated,” she said. “We exist for our students and to serve the communities and world around us. From economic impact to the research that changes lives, UNB plays an important role in helping to address the most pressing challenges of our time.

“I grew up with UNB,” Dr. Wilson said. “It is a privilege to serve a university that means so much to me, particularly at such an important moment. We are building on a strong foundation, and I have great confidence in what UNB can and will achieve.”