McDermott + Bull has successfully placed Monique McKay as Director of Diversity, Equity (DEI) and Human Rights at Vancouver Island University (VIU). In her new role, Monique will provide the direction necessary to foster, cultivate, and promote essential elements of the university’s mission: DEI and human rights. Through her engagement with university leaders, employees, and students, she will head the promotion and implementation of DEI-related policies, programs, and initiatives to effect systemic change and enhance a community that is equitable, diverse, and inclusive.
Prior to joining VIU, Monique served as the Ombuds and Assistant to the President at Florida Gulf Coast University for six years, providing dispute resolution and conflict management services for faculty, staff, administrators, parents, and community members at the 15,000-student campus. She also serves as a special advisor on the Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin (KIM) Northern Peoples WellnessTechnical Team, advising on policies relating to anti-racism and Indigenous people in the healthcare system in Manitoba.
Vancouver Island University acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Snaw-Naw-As, and Tla’amin Peoples, on whose traditional lands they teach, learn, research, live, and share knowledge. VIU is a Canadian public university that serves Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia. The university has grown into a major institution, playing a vital role in the educational, cultural, and economic life of the area. It provides students with a unique, hands-on learning experience and numerous opportunities for undergraduate research.
This executive search was completed by McDermott + Bull Principal Alex Verdecchia, Consultant Kate Klarich, and Research Associate Alina Ivanets.