For over 36 years, Louis Charpentier has served the University of Toronto with distinction and commitment, and so it is with very mixed feelings that we announce Louis’ retirement from his position as Secretary to the Governing Council on December 31^st of this year.

Louis graduated from the University in 1979 and immediately started working in the Faculty of Medicine, where he held a series of increasingly senior administrative roles. He has served as Secretary to the Governing Council since 1999, and has truly distinguished himself in this role – always calm, always providing sage advice to Governors and to senior administrators alike. He has also routinely helped those less familiar with governance processes to find effective ways to bring their issues forward.

Louis has played a critical role in a number of significant governance initiatives, and in 2013 received the Chancellor’s Award of Excellence as an Influential Leader for his role in implementing recommendations from the Towards 2030 Task Force on Governance. In commenting on his role in revising tri-campus governance, one member of the community wrote:

“With unparalleled skills in consultation, Mr. Charpentier is an extraordinarily gifted and effective leader who consistently demonstrates a strong respect for the positions of diverse stakeholders and individuals”.  A colleague also noted: “…his warmth, his genuine interest in his colleagues, and his kindness and willingness to assist – he really is extraordinary in that way….”.

Of course, we will be hosting an event to celebrate Louis’ many contributions to the University. Further details will be forthcoming closer to the date of his retirement.

Over the next weeks, a Governing Council process will be established to identify Louis’ successor. Replacing Louis will be no easy task. He has often noted that he “loves” governance and the role it plays within the institution. He will be leaving a very strong legacy. Please join us in congratulating Louis on his wonderful career at the University, and in wishing him well for the future.