At the heart of McMaster is its community of dedicated people.
Every day, employees contribute in countless ways — both seen and behind the scenes — supporting students, advancing research and keeping the university running smoothly.
Their work shapes an environment where collaboration, learning and innovation flourish. Where every member of the community can feel valued, welcomed and included.
In recognition of National Employee Appreciation Day, McMaster senior leaders pause and reflect on what they appreciate most about their teams and the impact they see every day.
Susan Tighe, President and Vice-Chancellor
It takes a huge team to serve our community of students, faculty and staff so well. I genuinely appreciate the people who toil in our labs, who look after our campus and buildings, who teach our students, run our offices, cook and serve our food and do so much more. Thank you all!
Maureen MacDonald, Provost and Vice-President (Academic)
Across Provost Council and the Office of the Provost, what I appreciate most is the culture of collaboration you all contribute to. Whether it’s working together on academic planning, supporting students or partnering with colleagues across the university, you share ideas generously and lift one another up. That spirit of partnership strengthens McMaster and helps us achieve more together than we could individually.
Learn more about the extraordinary People of McMaster.
Saher Fazilat, Vice-President, Operations and Finance
I am deeply grateful to everyone in Operations and Finance for the dedication, expertise and care you bring to your work every day. Whether you are stewarding budgets, maintaining our buildings and grounds, supporting our employees, operating essential services, feeding our community, or keeping our technology running, your work enables every part of McMaster to function and thrive while supporting an inclusive and equitable campus for all.
Gianni Parise, Vice-President, Research
To say I appreciate this team is an understatement. Their expertise, dedication, and professionalism set a remarkable standard, and their humour and kindness bring a balance that lightens even the busiest days. I’m proud to work with and learn from them and am grateful for all they do to support our research community.
Lili Litwin, Vice-President, University Advancement
I am continually inspired by the dedication, creativity and compassion our University Advancement team brings to our work each day. Their commitment to supporting McMaster’s mission — and to one another — strengthens our alumni and donor community in countless ways. Thank you for showing up with purpose, collaboration and heart. You make a meaningful difference.
Meet this year’s TMG Recognition Award winners
Paul O’Byrne, Vice-President, Faculty of Health Sciences and Dean, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine
I continue to be deeply appreciative of the exceptional people who support the Faculty of Health Sciences. Your professionalism, commitment to learners, and steadfast support of our teaching, research and clinical missions help make the McMaster community the extraordinary place it is. Thank you for your contributions and dedication to excellence.
Khaled Hassanein, Dean, DeGroote School of Business
I have the privilege of leading a community of colleagues who demonstrate a deep commitment to our students, each other, and the School’s values while in pursuit of our academic mission. DeGroote staff and faculty are agile, innovative, and consistently deliver impactful results. I am very proud of the milestones and accomplishments we have achieved together over the past year. Your efforts do not go unnoticed — it is an honour to work alongside you.
Heather Sheardown, Dean, Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering is a faculty of collaboration — demonstrated by students in and out of the classroom, within and across departments and teams, with our internal and external partners and in the way we approach research. Collaboration propels us forward. Thank you for showing that we truly go further together.
Pamela Swett, Dean, Faculty of Humanities
The team within Humanities brings care to every part of their jobs: care for our students, care for each other, and care for our shared work. Their dedication, creativity and generosity helps create a welcoming and inclusive community and makes the Faculty a truly special place. Thank you for everything you do!
Bruce Newbold, Acting Dean, Faculty of Science
Thank you to the extraordinary faculty and staff who have made McMaster’s largest Faculty a leader in teaching and learning, research and engagement. Every day in big and small ways, you unlock the potential of our students, drive discoveries and forge connections and collaborations across and beyond our campus. Without fail, you go above and beyond and never cease to inspire and amaze.
Jeremiah Hurley, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences
Every day I am reminded of the incredible commitment of our faculty and staff to our students, to each other, and to our mission. I am particularly proud of how they work as a team and collaborate to create a truly special social sciences community at McMaster.