Dr. Kathy Wilson is a dynamic and visionary leader. From her start with the Faculty of Nursing, her career at UNB spans three decades and reflects a deep commitment to the transformative power of teaching and learning. She is a “possibilities person,” dedicated to opening doors for students, faculty and staff and positioning UNB as a leader in innovative and inclusive education for all.
Currently serving as UNB’s Acting President and Vice Chancellor, Dr. Wilson brings extensive experience in student success initiatives, curriculum design, innovative program development, academic planning and the integration of educational technologies. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping policies and processes that prioritize people and students. Dr. Wilson has led numerous strategic projects and working groups and has collaborated with external partners to develop creative programming solutions.
A strong advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenization, Dr. Wilson has worked closely with the Council of Elders and the Mi’kmaq-Wolastoqey Centre (MWC) to establish respectful search processes and support initiatives such as the first Indigenous Research Scholar position in the Faculty of Science. She continues to work with Indigenous faculty and staff to champion projects like the Wabanaki Learning Centre, charting a course toward a School of Wabanaki Studies and expanding the MWC to provide support to Indigenous students on both campuses and the Moncton site.
Dr. Wilson has demonstrated exceptional leadership during times of change and crisis, notably leading UNB’s organizational response to COVID-19; stepping in as Acting Vice President Academic, a position she held for 2.5 years and playing a key role in the transition to a new senior leadership model with the introduction of a Provost. Her ability to inspire teams, build consensus and navigate complex challenges underscores her reputation as a collaborative and innovative leader, bringing diverse groups together toward a common goal.
In her previous role as UNB's inaugural Vice Provost, Learning & Student Experience, Dr. Wilson led the bi-campus integration in Student Affairs and Services and supported the establishment of the Centre for Learning Futures, championing online and technologically mediated programming.
Dr. Wilson is a proud UNB alumna obtaining her bachelor of nursing from UNB in 1987, a master’s in nursing from Dalhousie University in 1996 and a PhD in educational studies from UNB in 2008.
As Acting President and Vice Chancellor, she remains committed to UNB’s Toward 2030 strategic vision and UNB’s continued growth in the areas of research, education, engagement, community and sustainability.
