McMaster University’s president won’t seek a second term

McMaster University’s president and vice-chancellor says he won’t be seeking a second five-year term in the school’s top job.

David Farrar advised the university’s board of governors earlier this week as part of a common practice of giving 18-month notice.

The lengthy notice allows the university enough time to find a suitable replacement.

“After more than 40 years in universities, 25 of those in leadership roles, the time is right for me to return to my roots as a researcher,” Farrar said.

His final day is scheduled for June 30, 2025, when his current 5-year tenure ends.

Farrar joined the university in 2017 as provost and vice president.

He went on to become the school’s acting president in 2019 before officially being appointed president in 2019.

Farrar is the school’s eighth president.

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One step in electing a new school president involves creating a recommendation committee, which was formed back in December.

Made up of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and Board representatives, the committee plans to organize a consultation program for the presidential selection by early 2024.

Questions about the committee and the process behind choosing the university’s next president can be directed to pres.selection@mcmaster.ca