Daily News

Posted on Sept. 22: New executive assistant to the President brings range of experience

Keeping track of an agenda for McMaster President Peter George and other senior officers may seem like a lot of work. But with 16 years experience in academic sectors, Jill Axisa has the leadership and administrative skills necessary for the newly revamped position of executive assistant to the President. She joined the President's Office last week, replacing Donna Findlay, who was assistant to the President since 1986. Findlay retired from McMaster this summer. "Jill brings a wide range of experience to the position, including significant work in both university and professional association settings," says George. "Her impressive interpersonal and communications skills will be important to McMaster's ongoing operations. We are extremely pleased to have her join us." In the revised position, Axisa will work closely with the President and senior officers of the University on a broad range of presidential tasks, both internally and externally. She will manage the strategic, operational, planning and administrative issues arising from the President's Office.

Posted on Sept. 19: A resource for student success

The often overwhelming demands of university life can wreak havoc on a student's academic performance, but staff at the Centre for Student Development (CSD) help keep shaky emotional well-being intact. Now, with the recent move to the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) and the hiring of a new director, CSD is better equipped to help students seeking counseling and other services. Desmond Pouyat, CSD's new director, says due to the higher student population and greater willingness to seek help there will be increased demand for the variety of services CSD offers. This provides an opportunity to work closely with campus and community resources that support students and are wellness-focused. Currently CSD offers leadership training as well as personal and academic counseling, and services for students with disabilities. ESL programming is also offered. The move from Hamilton Hall to the basement of MUSC puts them in a better position to work more closely with neighbouring campus services such as Student Health Services.