McMaster University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

McMaster University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and outreach.

Driven by academic excellence, McMaster University is dedicated to fostering innovation and research across its six faculties, impacting global knowledge and societal advancement through its comprehensive educational programs.

Leadership Roles at McMaster University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Piper Plavins
  • Co President - Sinthu Selvarajah
  • President - Dalraj Dhillon
  • Co-President, Opirg Outreach Mcmaster Social Issues Network) - Jiya Rawal
  • Founder and President of MacInStyle - Mashael Mahmoud
  • Co-President - Connor Stronks
  • President At M. I. X - Antara Patel
  • President, Mcmaster 's Advisory Council For Building Inclusive Communities (Pacbic) - Stephanie Chin
  • Co-President - Emma Patchett
  • President - Sarah Cushnie
  • Piper Plavins - Chief Executive Officer

    Piper Plavins, the Chief Executive Officer at McMaster University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. This leadership role involves guiding the university's academic and research endeavors, ensuring alignment with its mission of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. Plavins oversees the integration of all six academic faculties—DeGroote School of Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Social Science, and Science—to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and maximize research impact. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key relationships with government bodies, industry partners, and alumni networks to secure funding and enhance the university's global standing. Piper Plavins drives the institution's commitment to academic rigor and societal contribution, ensuring McMaster University remains at the forefront of higher education and research excellence. This executive function is critical for maintaining the university's reputation and advancing its long-term goals in a competitive academic landscape.

    Sinthu Selvarajah - Co President

    Sinthu Selvarajah, the Co President at McMaster University, shares responsibility for driving key institutional initiatives and operational oversight. This leadership position focuses on enhancing student experience and fostering a vibrant campus community across the university's diverse faculties. Selvarajah collaborates with other senior leaders to implement strategic plans that support academic excellence and research innovation. The Co President's role involves coordinating efforts across various departments to ensure efficient resource allocation and program delivery. Sinthu Selvarajah contributes to the university's mission by championing initiatives that promote inclusivity and student success. This executive function is vital for maintaining the operational momentum and collaborative spirit essential for McMaster University's continued growth and impact in education and research.

    Dalraj Dhillon - President

    Dalraj Dhillon, the President at McMaster University, leads critical aspects of the university's strategic direction and operational execution. This executive role focuses on advancing the institution's academic programs and research initiatives across its six faculties. Dhillon oversees the development and implementation of policies that enhance educational quality and foster a culture of innovation. The President's responsibilities include managing key stakeholder relationships, including faculty, staff, students, and external partners, to ensure the university's objectives are met. Dalraj Dhillon champions initiatives aimed at strengthening McMaster University's position as a leading research institution, driving progress in areas such as health sciences and engineering. This leadership function is paramount in navigating the complexities of higher education and ensuring sustained institutional excellence and societal relevance.

    Jiya Rawal - Co-President, Opirg Outreach Mcmaster Social Issues Network)

    Jiya Rawal, the Co-President, Opirg Outreach Mcmaster Social Issues Network) at McMaster University, spearheads initiatives focused on social impact and community engagement. This leadership position directs outreach programs designed to address pressing social issues within the university and the broader Hamilton community. Rawal collaborates with student groups and faculty members to develop and execute projects that promote social justice and awareness. The Co-President's role involves fostering partnerships with local organizations to amplify the network's reach and effectiveness. Jiya Rawal is instrumental in translating the university's commitment to social responsibility into tangible community action, enhancing its role as a catalyst for positive change. This executive function is crucial for connecting academic learning with real-world application and community betterment.

    Mashael Mahmoud - Founder and President of MacInStyle

    Mashael Mahmoud, the Founder and President of MacInStyle at McMaster University, establishes and directs the strategic vision for the student-led fashion and design organization. This leadership role involves overseeing all operational aspects, from creative direction to event management and member engagement. Mahmoud cultivates a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and professional development among members interested in the fashion industry. The Founder and President's responsibilities include building partnerships with industry professionals and external brands to provide unique opportunities for students. Mashael Mahmoud drives the organization's mission to promote fashion education and entrepreneurship within the university community. This executive function is key to fostering student talent and providing practical experience in a competitive creative field.

    Connor Stronks - Co-President

    Connor Stronks, the Co President at McMaster University, shares leadership responsibilities for driving institutional objectives and operational efficiency. This executive position focuses on enhancing the student experience and supporting the university's academic and research missions. Stronks collaborates with fellow leaders to implement strategic initiatives that foster innovation and academic excellence across all faculties. The Co President's role involves coordinating departmental efforts to ensure effective program delivery and resource management. Connor Stronks contributes to McMaster University's commitment to societal impact by championing programs that promote student development and community engagement. This leadership function is essential for maintaining the university's operational integrity and advancing its educational and research goals.

    Antara Patel - President At M. I. X

    Antara Patel, the President At M. I. X at McMaster University, directs the strategic operations and programming for the organization. This leadership role focuses on advancing the mission of M. I. X. through innovative initiatives and effective management. Patel oversees the coordination of activities designed to engage students and faculty, fostering a dynamic environment for learning and collaboration. The President's responsibilities include developing key partnerships and ensuring the organization's resources are utilized efficiently to achieve its goals. Antara Patel drives the organization's commitment to excellence and impact within the university community. This executive function is critical for the successful execution of M. I. X.'s objectives and its contribution to the broader academic landscape at McMaster University.

    Stephanie Chin - President, Mcmaster 's Advisory Council For Building Inclusive Communities (Pacbic)

    Stephanie Chin, the President, Mcmaster 's Advisory Council For Building Inclusive Communities (Pacbic) at McMaster University, leads efforts to foster a more inclusive and equitable campus environment. This executive role directs the council's initiatives aimed at identifying and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion across the university. Chin collaborates with university administration, student groups, and faculty to implement policies and programs that promote diversity and belonging. The President's responsibilities include facilitating dialogue and action to create a welcoming atmosphere for all members of the McMaster community. Stephanie Chin champions the university's commitment to social justice and equity through strategic leadership and advocacy. This critical function ensures that Pacbic actively contributes to shaping a more representative and supportive institutional culture.

    Emma Patchett - Co-President

    Emma Patchett, the Co-President at McMaster University, shares leadership duties in guiding institutional initiatives and operational oversight. This executive position concentrates on enhancing student engagement and supporting the university's core academic and research functions. Patchett collaborates with senior leadership to execute strategic plans that promote innovation and educational quality across the six faculties. The Co-President's role involves coordinating departmental activities to ensure seamless program delivery and effective resource allocation. Emma Patchett contributes to McMaster University's mission by championing programs that foster student development and community involvement. This leadership function is vital for maintaining the university's operational effectiveness and advancing its educational and research objectives.

    Sarah Cushnie - President

    Sarah Cushnie, the President at McMaster University, directs key strategic operations and programmatic development for the institution. This leadership role focuses on advancing the university's academic excellence and research impact across its diverse faculties. Cushnie oversees the implementation of initiatives designed to enhance educational experiences and foster innovation. The President's responsibilities include cultivating strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support the university's mission and growth. Sarah Cushnie drives McMaster University's commitment to knowledge creation and societal contribution through strategic leadership and effective management. This executive function is paramount in ensuring the university's continued success and its influential role in higher education and research globally.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding McMaster University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads McMaster University?
    McMaster University is led by Piper Plavins (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sinthu Selvarajah (Co President) and Dalraj Dhillon (President).
    Who is part of McMaster University’s executive team?
    The executive team of McMaster University includes leaders such as Piper Plavins (Chief Executive Officer), Sinthu Selvarajah (Co President), Dalraj Dhillon (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does McMaster University have?
    McMaster University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in McMaster University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of McMaster University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Co President, President, Co-President, Opirg Outreach Mcmaster Social Issues Network), Founder and President of MacInStyle.