Katherine Cuff has been appointed acting dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences while Dean Jeremiah Hurley is on a six-month research leave starting July 1.  

A professor in the department of Economics, Cuff has been a member of the McMaster community for 25 years.  

“I’m honoured to step into this role and to help maintain the faculty’s momentum during this transition,” Cuff said.  

“The Faculty of Social Sciences is undertaking a number of exciting initiatives, and I look forward to continuing the excellent work underway.  

“I am particularly excited to be able to collaborate with Dean (Pamela) Swett and Professor (Stephen) Jones, who is the acting academic director, in welcoming the first cohort of full-time students to the new Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement this September.” 

Cuff brings extensive institutional knowledge and leadership experience to the role, having served two terms on Senate, chaired the Senate Committee on Appointments, and acted as president of the McMaster University Faculty Association (MUFA).  

She has also held a variety of roles within the Faculty of Social Sciences, having servedas a member of Faculty Council, the Graduate Curriculum and Policy Committee, and numerous selection committees.  

Most recently, Cuff served as the faculty’s representative on the University Reputation Committee, and was a member of the steering committee for the Master of Public Policy in Digital Society. 

“Katherine is a highly respected leader and scholar whose deep institutional knowledge and commitment to academic excellence make her an outstanding choice for this role,” said Susan Tighe, provost and vice-president (Academic).  

“I look forward to working with her as she supports the Faculty of Social Sciences and continues to foster an environment where students, faculty and staff can thrive.” 

Cuff holds an MA in Economics from York University and a PhD in Economics from Queen’s University. She was awarded the Tier II Canada Research Chair in Public Economic Theory for two terms (2009–2019) and was one of McMaster’s inaugural University Scholars. 

Hurley, who was recently reappointed for a third term as dean, starting January 2026, will use this leave to advance his research on the financing and organization of health-care systems. From April to June 2025, he will also serve as McMaster’s acting provost.