York alum and renowned businesswoman Kathleen Taylor will advocate for equity and diversity
York University began a historic era when it installed Kathleen Taylor as its 14th chancellor, marking the first time a woman has held the position of Chancellor at the University. As chancellor, Taylor will drive positive change as she connects with students at convocation ceremonies and helps to advance institutional priorities.
Following an installation ceremony in May 2023, Chancellor Taylor conferred degrees on thousands of York graduands at the spring convocation ceremonies in June.
She is a graduate of the JD/MBA program offered by Osgoode Hall Law School and the Schulich School of Business and has been actively engaged with the York community – for example, through her membership on the Schulich School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council.
Chancellor Taylor was the first woman to serve on the board for a major bank in Canada and has been a strong advocate for diverse representation across organizations and boards. She was the first president and CEO of the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts chain following its founder and was the first woman to lead a major branded international hotel company.