McMaster University Executive and Leadership Team

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 the six academic faculties—DeGroote School of Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Social Science, and Science—to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and research excellence. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key relationships with stakeholders, including government bodies, industry partners, and alumni, to secure resources and advance the university's standing. Piper Plavins drives the institution's commitment to impactful research and community engagement, ensuring McMaster University remains at the forefront of higher education and contributes significantly to societal progress.

Sarah van Dijken, the Co-President at McMaster University, shares leadership responsibilities for key institutional initiatives, focusing on enhancing student experience and operational effectiveness. This role involves collaborating with other student leaders and university administration to advance strategic objectives across the academic faculties. Van Dijken contributes to the development and execution of programs designed to support student success and engagement within the university community. The Co-President's duties encompass fostering a positive campus environment and ensuring student voices are represented in institutional decision-making processes. Sarah van Dijken's collaborative leadership strengthens the university's commitment to providing a dynamic and supportive educational setting for all students.

Giovana Romero, the SOMA Co-President at McMaster University, leads specific student-focused initiatives within the university's broader organizational structure. This position involves directing programs and activities that enhance the student body's academic and extracurricular life, particularly within the scope of SOMA's mandate. Romero collaborates with fellow leaders to ensure the effective implementation of SOMA's objectives, contributing to the overall student experience across the six faculties. The SOMA Co-President's responsibilities include fostering community, promoting student welfare, and advocating for student interests. Giovana Romero's dedicated leadership supports McMaster University's mission to cultivate a vibrant and engaging environment for its students.

Aleena Jivraj, the President of WUSC Club at McMaster University, spearheads initiatives related to global development and student empowerment through the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) chapter. This leadership role involves organizing events, fundraising, and advocacy efforts that align with WUSC's mission to foster education and opportunity for refugees and vulnerable youth worldwide. Jivraj collaborates with club members and university administration to execute projects that raise awareness and provide tangible support. The President of WUSC Club's responsibilities include managing club operations and engaging the student body in meaningful global citizenship activities. Aleena Jivraj's commitment drives impactful contributions to international development and strengthens McMaster University's role in global social responsibility.

Stephanie Chin, the President, McMaster's Advisory Council for Building Inclusive Communities (PACBIC) at McMaster University, directs efforts to foster a more equitable and inclusive campus environment. This leadership position involves guiding the council's strategic planning and implementation of initiatives aimed at addressing systemic barriers and promoting diversity across all university operations and faculties. Chin collaborates with students, faculty, and staff to develop policies and programs that enhance belonging and respect. The President of PACBIC's responsibilities include facilitating dialogue, advocating for marginalized communities, and ensuring that inclusivity is embedded in the university's culture. Stephanie Chin's dedicated leadership strengthens McMaster University's commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive community for everyone.

Thilini Wijesekera, the Co-President at McMaster University, shares executive leadership duties, focusing on advancing institutional goals and enhancing the student experience. This role requires close collaboration with other leaders to drive strategic projects and operational improvements across the university's diverse faculties. Wijesekera contributes to the formulation and execution of initiatives designed to foster academic excellence and community engagement. The Co-President's responsibilities include representing student interests and ensuring effective communication between student bodies and university management. Thilini Wijesekera's collaborative approach strengthens McMaster University's capacity to achieve its educational and research objectives.

Dalraj Dhillon, the President at McMaster University, holds a significant leadership position responsible for guiding key institutional priorities and operational strategies. This role involves overseeing various departments and initiatives that contribute to the university's academic mission and research output across its six faculties. Dhillon works to ensure the effective allocation of resources and the successful implementation of strategic plans designed to enhance the university's reputation and impact. The President's responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support the university's growth and development. Dalraj Dhillon's leadership drives McMaster University's commitment to excellence in education and research.

Tim Philip, the Co-Founder & Co-President at McMaster University, plays a pivotal role in establishing and guiding the strategic direction of a key initiative within the university. This dual role involves both the foundational creation and ongoing leadership of specific programs or organizations, contributing to the university's innovative endeavors. Philip collaborates with co-founders and university leadership to ensure the successful execution of objectives and the sustained growth of the initiative. The Co-Founder & Co-President's responsibilities encompass strategic planning, operational oversight, and fostering a culture of innovation. Tim Philip's entrepreneurial spirit and leadership drive significant advancements and contribute to McMaster University's dynamic academic and research landscape.

Simrit Sekhon, the Co President at McMaster University, shares executive leadership responsibilities, focusing on advancing the university's strategic objectives and enhancing the student experience. This role involves close collaboration with other leaders to implement programs and initiatives that support academic excellence and community development across the six faculties. Sekhon contributes to ensuring effective communication and coordination among various university departments and student groups. The Co President's duties include advocating for student needs and fostering a positive and productive campus environment. Simrit Sekhon's leadership strengthens McMaster University's commitment to providing a comprehensive and supportive educational journey for its students.

Tracy Dallaire, the Deputy Chief Technology Officer & Director, Information Security Services at McMaster University, architects and executes the institution's technology strategy and robust information security protocols. This critical role ensures the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of university data and digital assets across all six academic faculties. Dallaire oversees the development and implementation of advanced technological infrastructure, supporting cutting-edge research and academic programs. The Director of Information Security Services manages comprehensive security services, safeguarding against cyber threats and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. Tracy Dallaire's leadership drives technological innovation and maintains a secure digital environment essential for McMaster University's operations and its commitment to research and education.