(BRAMPTON, SAULT STE. MARIE, TIMMINS, ON – July 16, 2026) Algoma University’s Board of Governors (the Board) is pleased to announce the confirmed membership for the 2026–2027 governance year which began July 1, 2026. Rob Battisti has been elected to a second full term as Chair, alongside Kate Lamb who was elected to continue as Vice-Chair.
The Board has welcomed new external members, Michael Gekas, Sergio Rodriguez (appointed May 1, 2026), and Valerie Scarfone who each bring professional expertise, connection to the University, and deep governance knowledge to the Board. The Board also welcomes Kevin Monpara, who was elected by the student body to serve as Student Governor on behalf of Algoma University Students’ Union (AUSU). Looking forward, the Board is pleased to welcome Dr. Kofi Campbell as the President and Vice-Chancellor on September 1, 2026.
Returning external Board members include Arjun Batra, Rob Battisti, Cecilia Bruno, Ian Grant, Kate Lamb, Rajat Marwah, Chancellor Mario Turco, and Melanie Verreault. Internal members returning to the Board include Heather Douglas as the Non-Teaching Staff Governor, Dr. Dwayne Keough as the Teaching Staff Governor, and Dr. Nikki Shaw as the Senate Member Governor.
Together, these Board members bring diverse professional expertise and strong community leadership to support the long-term financial sustainability of the University in alignment with its distinctive Special Mission.
Algoma University extends sincere thanks to all its Board members who recently concluded their terms for their time, insights, and dedication. Student Governor (AUSU) Vrusha Rangrej provided valuable student perspectives to the Board table and as a member of the Presidential Search Advisory Group. Dr. Sonja Kosuta concluded six years of service on the Board. In addition to serving numerous committees throughout her term, Dr. Kosuta recently chaired the Governance Committee, providing leadership to the implementation of a comprehensive by-law review process and championed a series of enhancements that have streamlined and strengthened the Board’s work.
The Board would like to offer their deepest thanks to Dr. Sheila Embleton, who will complete her term on the Board of Governors alongside her service as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor on August 31, 2026. Dr. Embleton has led the University through a critical period with professionalism, resilience, and a steady hand in alignment with the University’s Special Mission and values.
Algoma University remains committed to inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking governance, and would like to thank all departing members for their contributions and welcome the incoming Board with enthusiasm for the work ahead.
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