The University of Waterloo named a respected business leader and community volunteer as its new vice-president, university relations
WATERLOO, Ont. (Monday, April 23, 2012) - The University of Waterloo named a respected business leader and community volunteer as its new vice-president, university relations.
Tim Jackson has filled the role of vice-president, external relations at Waterloo on an interim basis since last June. It was a secondment from his position as associate vice-president, commercialization and CEO of the Waterloo Accelerator Centre.
"Tim Jackson has worked to build strong relationships with alumni, donors, our community, government ministers, as well as the university's partners in Canada and abroad," said Feridun Hamdullahpur, president & vice-chancellor of Waterloo. "The University of Waterloo community benefits from his experience, energy and commitment. We welcome him to this new role."
Jackson is a Waterloo graduate, earning a BA in accounting in 1991. He is a chartered accountant, and is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario, the institute's highest designation. It also gave Jackson its award of distinction. He received the university's 50th Anniversary Alumni Award, and Waterloo's School of Accounting and Finance named a fellowship after him in 2005. He is a founder and partner of the venture capital firm, Tech Capital Partners. He has served as CEO, CFO or board member for many technology companies.
"The University of Waterloo is unlike any other post-secondary institution," said Jackson. "I am looking forward to working with students, faculty and staff in this new capacity in order to share its unique story with the world."
A dedicated volunteer in Waterloo Region, Jackson serves as chair of the Barnraisers' Council of Waterloo Region and chair of the board of Centre in the Square, among other volunteer activities. He has also served as chair of the Waterloo Public Library board, president of the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, and chair of the Waterloo Regional Children's Museum board. Several local groups have recognized Jackson's commitment to volunteerism. He was awarded the first-ever Barnraiser Award. The City of Waterloo honoured him with the Legacy Leaders Award. The Volunteer Action Centre gave Jackson the Leadership Award. And this year, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce named him the Michael R. Follett Community Leader Award recipient.
The role of vice-president, university relations is new. It involves strategic communications and an integrated approach to community and business relations, government relations, communications, public affairs and media relations, linking the university with the social, cultural and economic development of the community, province, country and the world. Jackson's appointment is effective May 1.
Image: Tim Jackson.
