[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Wood_football.jpg” caption=”Dr. Phil Wood will serve another five-year term as McMaster’s associate vice-president (student affairs) and dean of students starting July 1. Photo courtesy of Brad Coburn.”]Dr. Phil Wood has been reappointed as associate vice-president (student affairs) and dean of students for a five-year term starting July 1, 2007. The reappointment was approved by the Board of Governors on June 14.

“I'm very pleased to be asked to lead the best Student Affairs team in Canada as we move forward to realize our vision of being 'Partners in Learning' at McMaster University,” said Wood, who has also been appointed academic director of the Centre for Leadership in Learning.

Wood joined the Faculty of Engineering in 1983, serving as chair of the chemical engineering department from 1991 to 1997. He was the associate dean of the Faculty of Engineering from 1998 to 2002. His first term as associate vice-president (student affairs) and dean of students began in 2002. In addition, Wood also hosts Soul in the Hole on CFMU on Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon.

“I am very pleased that Dr. Wood has agreed to serve for another five-year term in this capacity,” said Bob McNutt, acting provost. “He is responsible for a large and very important portfolio at McMaster. There is no one better qualified to bring the leadership needed to advance the University in this vital area of service to students.”

The Student Affairs office addresses issues raised by students, parents and the community. In addition to offering a wide variety of student services, Student Affairs, in consultation with student governments, assesses current trends and needs to enhance student life at McMaster.

“Dr. Wood has shown his dedication towards working with the Student Union,” said McMaster Student Union president Ryan Moran. “The MSU looks forward to continuing the positive and productive relationship that we share with Dr. Wood and Student Affairs.”

The associate vice-president (student affairs) oversees the administration of Athletics and Recreation, the Bookstore, director of Student Services (including Career Planning and Employment Centre, Centre for Student Development, Student Affairs Business Office, Student Financial Aid and Scholarships and Student Health Service), Hospitality Services, Housing and Conference Services and International Students' Advisor.

Wood also received a provincial OCUFA teaching award and a national 3M Fellowship. He is recognized internationally as an academic scholar in teaching, research and administration. Wood also promotes problem-based learning across many university disciplines and has been recognized with awards for engineering education from around the world.

He is a member of the Chemical Institute of Canada, the Canadian Society of Chemical Engineering, the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.