The University of St. Michael’s College offers its best wishes to Lisa Rae, who is leaving the University to accept a position with Addictions & Mental Health Ontario (AMHO).
Rae, who currently serves as Director of St. Michael’s Office of the President and Secretary to Collegium, will begin her new role as AMHO’s Director of Public Affairs in early August.
“We are, of course, very sorry to see Lisa leave St. Michael’s, but it is exciting to think that such a gifted person will fill this crucially important role in our community and have an impact provincially,” says President David Sylvester. “Lisa’s ability to lead on complex policy initiatives has served St. Michael’s very well. Her leadership role on bringing the St. Mike’s 180 strategic plan to life and the ongoing renewal of university governance policies and procedures means she leaves St. Michael’s in a stronger place than when she came. It is great to know that AMHO will have such an asset at a time when we are all increasingly challenged by the issues surrounding mental health and addiction.”
“This truly is bittersweet for me.” says Rae. “I have truly enjoyed my time at St. Michael’s and getting to know the people that make this community so resilient. I am genuinely excited for the campus reopening this fall, and the university’s path of renewal.”
Rae’s input in Collegium matters has been invaluable, notes Paul Harris, who serves as Chair of the University’s governing board.
“Lisa’s appreciation for process and her understanding of governance issues have been influential in making the Collegium more efficient, and we are especially appreciative of her efforts to introduce ongoing board education. We are grateful for all her work,” Harris says.
Rae joined the University in 2019 with an extensive background in strategic leadership and stakeholder engagement in the post-secondary field. Her role included overseeing the operations of the President’s Office and supporting in identifying priority issues, facilitating planning, and driving project-based initiatives across the University.
AMHO represents more than 200 mental health and addiction organizations across Ontario, with a goal of building a comprehensive, accessible system of addiction and mental health care in communities across the province.
A search will be launched in the coming weeks.