New Chair at Council on Higher Education

Bob Shaw is the new chair of the Nova Scotia Council on Higher Education, Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison announced today.

Mr. Shaw is president of Shaw Group Ltd. and a past member of the Saint Mary's board of governors. He has been a member of the Nova Scotia Council on Higher Education since June 1996, and head of the finance committee since the fall of 1996.

"Bob Shaw brings a wealth of leadership and experience within the academic and business communities to the chair's position," said Mr. Harrison. "He has been at the table working on university issues, and this continuity will be important as we work with our universities on our shared priorities."

As a council member, Mr. Shaw played an active role in consulting with universities and student groups across the province on the recommended university funding formula currently before government.

Susan Clark, council executive director, said Mr. Shaw is committed to a strong university system in Nova Scotia. "Bob's work with the university community and council gives him a strong sense of each university's distinct programs and approach to higher education."

Said Mr. Shaw: "The universities are critical to the social and economic growth of the province. I am very pleased to assume leadership of the council and look forward to contributing to the ongoing development of Nova Scotia's university system."

Mr. Shaw succeeds Stephen Whetmore, who recently assumed a position with the Newfoundland telephone company NewTel.

The Nova Scotia Council on Higher Education was established in 1989 to represent the positions and views of universities to government, and the policies and positions of government to the universities. Mr. Shaw's appointment is effective immediately.