To continue to support and provide a safe place where the McMaster community can learn, build and innovate, the university has hired Ivan L’Ortye to lead Campus Safety (formerly Security Services).

“Ivan has been serving as the interim Director of Campus Safety since June 2023, and I am thrilled to have him continue leading the team and build on the great progress he’s made since joining us,” said Wanda McKenna, Associate Vice-President and Chief Human Resources Officer. “Ivan has quickly become known for his effective leadership, community-focused approach and his openness to work together. And he empowers his team to do the same.”

In a short time at McMaster, L’Ortye has successfully managed a team of special constables to focus on a proactive, community and partnership-focused approach to safety on campus. Together, the Campus Safety team is working to ensure they are well positioned to support the unique needs of the campus community, and that they embody the university’s values like respect, inclusion, trust, integrity and service in their work.

“Ensuring we create a safe campus community is critical to students’ sense of belonging,” said Sean Van Koughnett, Associate Vice-President (Students and Learning) & Dean of Students and member of the candidate selection committee. “Since starting the role, Ivan has worked closely with student groups and has established partnerships based on trust and respect. Ivan’s leadership is strengthening our ability for students to feel heard.”

L’Ortye also brings his extensive background of over 36 years of dedicated community police service in Halton Region to the role.

The full-time, permanent position was posted widely in October/November 2023. A selection committee, consisting of a diverse group of academic, administrative and student leaders from across McMaster, conducted the review of candidates and interviews.

L’Ortye and the Campus Safety Services team will continue to report to Wanda McKenna, Associate Vice-President and Chief Human Resources Officer.