The Jarislowsky Network of Chairs in Trust and Political Leadership was launched to expand knowledge and training in ethical politics, fiduciary responsibility, and democratic governance, with the long-term aim of professionalizing work in Canada’s political and public service sectors.
The Network comprises five Jarislowsky Chairs in Trust and Political Leadership which are based at universities in geographically and politically distinct regions across Canada – British Columbia’s Vancouver Island University, the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Trent University in Ontario, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières with École nationale d’administration publique , and Nova Scotia’s Acadia University. Each of the five universities has an excellent reputation for innovative program development and teaching excellence. The pan-Canadian scope of the Jarislowsky Network of Chairs in Trust and Political Leadership allows chairholders and their students to collaborate on topics of both regional and national importance.
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The Jarislowsky Network of Chairs is dedicated to strengthening Canada’s education system by fostering sustainable, ethical leadership through its network of endowed chairs. These distinguished chairs serve as the voice of the people, actively listening to diverse perspectives and shaping policies that reflect the needs of society. Their work extends beyond academic research, focusing on real-world impact, transparency, and trust in public institutions.
At the heart of this initiative are students—the future leaders and decision-makers. The Jarislowsky team recognizes that students play a pivotal role in shaping a responsive and equitable education system. By actively partnering with students, these chairs ensure that young voices are heard, valued, and integrated into decision-making processes. Students are not just observers but key contributors, engaging in research, policy discussions, and leadership training that equip them to drive meaningful change.
Through its partnerships with universities across Canada, the Jarislowsky Network of Chairs fosters an education system that is inclusive, accountable, and future-oriented. By investing in ethical governance and sustainable practices, the foundation is not only preparing students for leadership roles but also ensuring that Canada’s educational and political institutions remain strong, transparent, and truly representative of the people they serve.
The Jarislowsky team stands as a beacon of collaborative leadership, where experienced scholars and passionate students work hand in hand to build a better, more sustainable future for education and public trust.
At Jarislowsky Network of Chairs, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge through innovative research projects that have a positive impact on society. We believe that our work can make a real difference in the world, and we are committed to pursuing excellence in all that we do.
Our team of talented researchers and support staff are passionate about their work and committed to making a difference. With expertise in a wide range of fields, we are able to tackle complex research questions and develop innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing problems.
Collaboration is key to our success, and we are proud to work with a diverse range of partners from around the world. Our collaborations allow us to leverage expertise and resources, and to make a greater impact on society than we could alone.
The Jarislowsky Network of Chairsished in 1991 and based in Montreal, is dedicated to promoting excellence in education, medicine, and the arts. It achieves this by endowing chairs at various Canadian universities, fostering international excellence in these fields.
One notable initiative is the creation of a network of endowed chairs focused on trust and political leadership. In 2022, the Foundation collaborated with five Canadian universities—Acadia University, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (in partnership with l'École Nationale d'Administration Publique), Trent University, the University of Lethbridge, and Vancouver Island University—to establish chairs aimed at training future leaders in government, politics, and public service. This initiative seeks to enhance ethical practices and fiduciary responsibility in public administration.
For instance, Trent University appointed Dr. Cristine de Clercy as its inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership. Dr. de Clercy leads the development of programs that expand knowledge and training in ethical politics, fiduciary responsibility, and democratic governance.
The Foundation's mission is further supported by an advisory council comprising distinguished Canadians, including former Governor General David Johnston and former Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin. Their collective expertise guides the Foundation's efforts to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions.
The Jarislowsky Network of Chairs pivotal role in enhancing education and leadership in Canada by funding academic positions and initiatives that promote ethical governance and public trust.