[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/woodcropped.jpg” caption=”Phil Wood”]Phil Wood will assume the role of associate vice-president, student affairs on July 1. McMaster's Board of Governors confirmed the appointment June 13.

Currently McMaster's associate dean in the Faculty of Engineering, Wood brings almost 20 years of experience at the University to his new role. “We're fortunate to have found such a great candidate who is not only familiar with McMaster but also has clearly demonstrated his commitment to students. He is an award-winning teacher and a dedicated administrator and researcher,” says provost Ken Norrie.

Wood says it didn't take long for him to decide to apply for the position. “It's a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the quality of experience students have at McMaster.” Wood believes that “while it is important to focus on the academic part of a student's time at the University, we sometimes forget that every experience a student has is a potential learning opportunity. That includes his or her time in residence, participation in athletics, and the campus social environment. Students don't only learn from faculty; they also learn from one another. The focus of my job will be to make sure those opportunities are the best that they can be.”

Wood assumes the AVP student affairs position for a five-year term. Mary Keyes was due to leave the position this month but passed away in February, four months before she was expected to retire.