Former Fleming College Leader Named President and CEO of Colleges Ontario

Maureen Adamson has been appointed the next president and CEO of Colleges Ontario, following an eight-year tenure at Fleming College.

Adamson’s previous roles include Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Deputy Minister responsible for the Status of Women, CEO of the Michener Institute and CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. She has also served in senior governance positions, including Chair of the Scarborough Health Network and Vice-Chair of the Toronto Transit Commission. Photo courtesy of Colleges Ontario.

“Maureen’s tenure has been defined by strategic vision, steady leadership and a deep commitment to student success,” said Don Gillespie, Fleming College board of directors chair. “Under her guidance, Fleming achieved several significant milestones that strengthened the College for the future.”

According to Colleges Ontario, Adamson’s role is to lead the organization representing Ontario’s 24 public colleges amid significant financial pressure, rising demand for applied training and growing competition for skilled talent.

Over the past year, Adamson has served in the same role at Colleges Ontario on an interim basis. Her permanent role is effective on Jan. 1.

During her interim tenure, Colleges Ontario says Adamson helped unify member colleges around shared priorities and supported more coordinated advocacy at Queen’s Park.

“As I transition into this role, my priority is to advocate for our public colleges and build a deep understanding of the value colleges bring to our communities, our economy and our province,” said Adamson. “That means advocating for sustainable funding, advancing workforce development and ensuring institutions continue to deliver the skilled graduates our communities rely on.” 

“Maureen has been a steady hand and a unifying voice throughout her interim term. Her experience, integrity and collaborative style will continue to strengthen the college sector,” said Glenn Vollebregt, Colleges Ontario's former chair and St. Lawrence College president and CEO.

“Maureen’s appointment is welcome news for our sector and comes at an important time. She brings the clarity, steadiness and vision we need as we navigate a rapidly changing landscape,” said Ann Marie Vaughan, Colleges Ontario chair and president and Humber Polytechnic CEO. “Maureen is an exceptional leader who understands what colleges require to support students, employers and communities. Her ability to bring people together around shared priorities has already made a meaningful impact and I'm confident that her continued leadership will guide our sector forward in the years ahead.”

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