Universities Canada announces appointment of New Vice-President, Public Affairs 

Following an extensive nationwide search, Universities Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Coates Mather as its new Vice-President, Public Affairs, effective March 17, 2025. 

This key addition to our leadership team will significantly enhance our ability to mobilize public support and advocate effectively for university research, education, and innovation in Canada. 

Michelle is an award-winning public affairs leader with 18 years of experience in political and corporate communications, policy development, government relations, and advocacy. She has built a reputation for aligning organizational needs with government agendas, crafting compelling narratives, and mobilizing stakeholders to achieve shared goals. Her talent for collaboration and consensus-building has made her a key player in shaping decisions at all levels of government. 

As Head of Policy and Public Affairs for the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships (CCPPP), she has introduced innovative policy and advocacy services that strengthened member engagement and expanded the sector’s influence.  

She has also held leadership roles at: 

• Presence + Influence, an independent public affairs consulting practice. 

• The Canadian Transportation Alliance, the Canadian Energy Marketers Association, Syntax Strategic, and NATIONAL Public Relations. 

• The federal government, serving as:
  • Communications Advisor to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. 
  • Press Secretary for the Minister of International Cooperation.
  • Public Relations Advisor for the former federal Crown corporation PPP Canada. 
  • Political strategist on municipal, provincial, and national campaigns. 

In her new role, Michelle will position Universities Canada as a national leader in higher education policy and research. She will lead comprehensive advocacy and communications strategies that strengthen our influence, align with our strategic goals, and advance the priorities of Canada’s universities. 

We are excited about the future and look forward to working closely with Michelle, our Board, leadership team, and staff as we continue to champion Canada’s universities and their vital role in society.