Dalhousie University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Dalhousie University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, strategy, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Dalhousie University fosters a culture of innovation and research, impacting global knowledge and community development through its extensive network and educational programs.

Leadership Roles at Dalhousie University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine - David Chipp
  • Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine - Catherine Charles
  • DFA President - Dominic Silvio
  • Founder & President - Marin Marsala
  • Co-President - Sierra Lovell
  • President - Peter Kelly
  • President - Nicholas Reilly
  • President - Mary MacGillivray
  • President - Cynthia Forbes
  • President & Vice Chancellor - Kimberley Brooks
  • David Chipp - Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine

    David Chipp, the Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine at Dalhousie University, directs the operational framework for emergency medical services. Overseeing resource allocation and workflow optimization, Chipp ensures the efficient delivery of critical patient care. This leadership role involves managing departmental budgets and coordinating with clinical staff to maintain high standards of medical practice. By streamlining administrative processes, David Chipp directly supports the department's mission to provide timely and effective emergency treatment. Chipp's focus remains on enhancing operational capacity and ensuring readiness for all medical emergencies within the university's healthcare system.
    David Chipp

    Catherine Charles - Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine

    Catherine Charles, the Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine at Dalhousie University, manages the comprehensive operational strategy for family medicine services. Charles oversees the integration of patient care, research, and education within the family medicine departments. This involves optimizing clinic operations, managing staff, and ensuring the seamless delivery of primary healthcare across various locations. By fostering collaborative environments, Catherine Charles enhances the patient experience and supports the training of future medical professionals. Charles's leadership drives efficiency and quality in primary care delivery, aligning with the university's broader healthcare objectives.
    Catherine Charles

    Dominic Silvio - DFA President

    Dominic Silvio, the DFA President at Dalhousie University, leads the Dalhousie Faculty Association, advocating for faculty interests and academic freedom. Silvio directs the association's strategic initiatives, focusing on collective bargaining, professional development, and member support. This role involves fostering strong relationships with university administration to ensure fair and equitable working conditions for all faculty members. By championing faculty rights, Dominic Silvio contributes to a robust academic environment conducive to research and teaching excellence. Silvio's commitment ensures the DFA effectively represents its members' concerns and promotes the university's academic mission.

    Marin Marsala - Founder & President

    Marin Marsala, the Founder & President at Dalhousie University, established and directs the strategic vision for the organization. Marsala oversees all foundational aspects, guiding the institution's growth and development from its inception. This leadership position involves setting the core mission, fostering initial partnerships, and building the organizational structure necessary for long-term success. By championing the founding principles, Marin Marsala ensures the organization remains true to its original objectives. Marsala's entrepreneurial drive and commitment are central to the institution's ongoing impact and development.

    Sierra Lovell - Co-President

    Sierra Lovell, the Co-President at Dalhousie University, shares leadership responsibilities, focusing on collaborative governance and strategic direction. Lovell works alongside other leaders to advance the organization's objectives, contributing to key decision-making processes. This role involves coordinating efforts across various departments and ensuring alignment with the overarching mission. By actively participating in leadership dialogues, Sierra Lovell promotes a unified approach to institutional development. Lovell's dedication to shared leadership enhances the organization's capacity to achieve its goals and serve its community effectively.

    Peter Kelly - President

    Peter Kelly, the President at Dalhousie University, directs the overall strategic leadership and operational management of the institution. Kelly oversees the execution of academic and administrative policies, ensuring alignment with the university's mission and values. This critical role involves fostering a dynamic environment for teaching, research, and community engagement. By guiding institutional priorities, Peter Kelly drives innovation and academic excellence across all faculties. Kelly's leadership ensures the university maintains its reputation for high-quality education and impactful research, contributing significantly to its global standing.

    Nicholas Reilly - President

    Nicholas Reilly, the President at Dalhousie University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic advancement. Reilly directs the implementation of key initiatives aimed at enhancing research capabilities and student success. This position involves overseeing departmental operations and fostering collaborations that strengthen the university's academic profile. By championing educational innovation, Nicholas Reilly ensures Dalhousie University remains at the forefront of higher education. Reilly's commitment to excellence guides the university's trajectory toward achieving its long-term strategic objectives.

    Mary MacGillivray - President

    Mary MacGillivray, the President at Dalhousie University, provides executive leadership, guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational effectiveness. MacGillivray oversees the development and implementation of policies that support academic excellence and research innovation. This role involves fostering a collaborative environment among faculty, staff, and students to achieve institutional goals. By championing key university initiatives, Mary MacGillivray ensures sustained progress in education and community outreach. MacGillivray's leadership is instrumental in maintaining the university's commitment to its core values and academic mission.

    Cynthia Forbes - President

    Cynthia Forbes, the President at Dalhousie University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Forbes oversees the advancement of academic programs and research endeavors, ensuring alignment with the university's mission. This leadership position involves fostering an environment that encourages scholarly achievement and student development. By driving institutional priorities, Cynthia Forbes enhances the university's capacity for innovation and global impact. Forbes's dedication ensures Dalhousie University continues to excel in higher education and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

    Kimberley Brooks - President & Vice Chancellor

    Kimberley Brooks, the President & Vice Chancellor at Dalhousie University, provides comprehensive executive leadership, guiding the institution's strategic direction and academic mission. Brooks oversees all facets of university operations, including academic planning, research initiatives, and community engagement. This pivotal role involves fostering an environment of scholarly excellence and innovation across all faculties. By championing key institutional priorities, Kimberley Brooks ensures Dalhousie University maintains its position as a leading center for higher education and research. Brooks's leadership is critical in advancing the university's goals and enhancing its global reputation.
    Kimberley Brooks

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dalhousie University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Dalhousie University?
    Dalhousie University is led by David Chipp (Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine), along with executives such as Catherine Charles (Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine) and Dominic Silvio (DFA President).
    Who is part of Dalhousie University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Dalhousie University includes leaders such as David Chipp (Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine), Catherine Charles (Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine), Dominic Silvio (DFA President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Dalhousie University have?
    Dalhousie University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Dalhousie University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Dalhousie University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer - Department of Emergency Medicine, Chief Operating Officer, Dalhousie Family Medicine, DFA President, Founder & President, Co-President.