McMaster launches search for next leader of the Office of Community Engagement

McMaster University is starting the search for the next academic director of the Office of Community Engagement (OCE).

With the leadership structure returning to a single director model, the university is seeking a leader who will guide the OCE in its next chapter of community partnership, community-engaged research and experiential learning. A selection committee, which comprises faculty, staff, students, and community partners, has been established with representation from across campus.

The academic director will play a central role in advancing McMaster’s commitment to principled community engagement and reciprocal collaboration with Hamilton communities.

As the search launches, the university also marks the upcoming conclusion of terms for the OCE’s current academic co-directors, Karen Balcom, Community-Engaged Teaching and Learning) and Ameil Joseph, Community-Engaged Research and Relationships, who will complete their roles at the end of December.

“The leadership and dedication shown by Karen and Ameil over the past four and a half years have been important in advancing our goals for community engagement,” says Kim Dej, vice-provost, Teaching and Learning.

“Their ability to build meaningful partnerships, support students and faculty, and strengthen ties across Hamilton has left a lasting mark on McMaster. We are grateful for their service and impact.”

The OCE, established in 2016, is recognized as McMaster’s hub for community-engaged teaching, research, and partnership building.

Over nearly a decade, the OCE has launched key initiatives such as the Community Engagement Minor, CityLab Semester in Residence, and CMTYENGA community-engaged learning courses, which blend classroom theory with hands-on projects in the community.

The office has worked alongside partners including Empowerment Squared, a charity dedicated to empowering newcomer, racialized, and marginalized youth and families, and the McMaster Children and Youth University, which delivers free, STEAM-based educational programming for local children and youth.

The new academic director will build on OCE’s recent external review and self-study, ensuring that the Office continues to support impactful programs, foster advisory committees and integrate recommendations to strengthen institutional-community ties. Continuity for OCE staff and alignment with McMaster’s strategic goals remain top priorities.

Applications and nominations for the academic director position are anticipated to open in the coming weeks, with opportunities for campus and community input throughout the process.

More details and updates about the search will be shared soon.