Dr. Gregory Rupik has been named the inaugural Chief of Staff and University Secretary for the University of St. Michael’s College.
The appointment comes in recognition of Rupik’s exemplary performance since joining the President’s Office in 2019, says President David Sylvester.
“Greg is a consistent source of guidance, insight and critical thinking,” says Sylvester. “He is extraordinarily well versed in issues relating to university governance and was a strong support during the recent negotiations on the renewed Federation Operating Agreements between the University of Toronto and St. Michael’s, Victoria University and the University of Trinity College.”
Rupik has held the title of Director, Office of the President and Secretary to the Collegium since 2022. In his new role as Chief of Staff, his current duties will expand to include oversight of policy and protocol at St. Michael’s. As University Secretary, he will continue to serve as Secretary to the Collegium—the institutional governing body that safeguards the property, funds, and mission of the university—and will now also administratively support St. Michael’s Senate, the governing body responsible for academic and faculty-related matters.
“At institutions with a bicameral governance structure like St. Michael’s, University Secretaries ensure that each body has the resources and guidance it needs to do its particular fiduciary duty, and that these bodies see each other as collaborators” says Collegium Chair Susan Helstab. “Greg’s support of the Collegium has been tremendous, and he’s proven himself to be the ideal candidate for this integrative role.”
Rupik’s commitment to St. Michael’s is long-standing. After graduating from St. Michael’s with majors in Christianity & Culture and Philosophy, he returned to complete a Master of Arts degree in Systematic Theology from St. Michael’s Faculty of Theology. During his MA and doctoral degrees, he served as a residence don and later held the position of Interim Assistant Dean of Students. Currently, he is a member of the St. Michael’s College Young Alumni Committee.
“In Greg we have an enormously creative and competent leader who understands what the role requires,” says Sylvester. “He is well versed in the mission of St. Michael’s and is immersed in its culture and history. As an academic, he understands the requirements of the university. His additional education in governance will continue to serve the university well and, as one of the contributors to St. Mike’s 180, our strategic plan, he is able at all times to view the big picture. This appointment will serve the University well, and I offer my heartiest congratulations.”