In a recent interview, Marie-Eve Sylvestre (University of Ottawa) shares her perspective on becoming the President of UOttawa and how she manages the responsibilities of the role in changing times. Sylvestre underscores the social and civic goals of universities, saying that research should be “socially engaged and relevant” and “[make] a difference in communities.” She goes on to say that, as parts of communities, universities must also uphold academic freedom and free speech to allow for new ideas and perspectives. Reflecting on underfunding, Sylvestre said that she sees an opportunity to change the social contract with the public: “you can count on us to train talent and produce the research our country needs. But in exchange, we need your support.”
