Former Ontario cabinet minister and journalist Indira Naidoo-Harris is joining the University of Guelph this August.
President of the university Franco Vaccarino announced on Aug. 31 that Naidoo-Harris has been named the new assistant vice-president of the office of Diversity and Human Rights
“We are delighted to welcome Indira to the University of Guelph,” said Vaccarino.
“She has made significant contributions to advancing diversity, human rights and equity in Ontario, and brings with her a strong commitment to building an inclusive culture.
Vaccarino said Naidoo-Harris’s substantial experience will propel the university as a leader and diversity of human rights.
“The fact that we were able to attract someone of her calibre speaks to our reputation for excellence, and I know the entire U of G community will join me in welcoming her,” said Vaccarino.
Naidoo-Harris was elected as MPP for the Halton region in 2014 and held several cabinet posts including serving as Ontario’s first minister responsible for early years and childcare as the first minister of the status of women.
As the first official voice for women in the province, Naidoo-Harris headed the Women’s Economic Empowerment Strategy and the Strategy for Gender-Based Violence. She also worked on anti-human trafficking legislation, led consultations across the province with women’s and Indigenous groups, victims of violence and social reformers, and worked with business and government officials on pay equity and other issues.
She served as associate minister of finance and associate minister of education.
Before entering politics, Naidoo-Harris was an award-winning journalist in Canada and internationally with outlets including NBC, PBS, CBC, OMNI, TVO and CTV.
At the U of G, Naidoo-Harris will work on fostering a culture of inclusion by leading discussions and educational efforts about inclusivity, equity and accessibility.
“I am honoured and excited to be taking on this important role at the University of Guelph and to be working with the remarkable staff, students and scholars at this prestigious institution,” said Naidoo-Harris.
Naidoo-Harris said diversity and human rights are essential for true scholarship, collaboration and learning to happen.
“This is an incredible opportunity to lay a strong foundation for inclusion and acceptance for everyone on campus. I look forward to working with president Vaccarino and the amazing team at the University on the vital work ahead,” said Naidoo-Harris.
