As Carolyn Graham concludes her term as chair of the Board of Governors of Grant MacEwan University, the campus community recognizes her profound contributions in steering the institution through a pivotal chapter in its history.
“We are incredibly grateful for all that Carolyn has brought to MacEwan,” says Dr. Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor of MacEwan University. “Her commitment to students and good stewardship created a foundation for much of our success. She leaves a proud legacy here at MacEwan.”
A deep belief in MacEwan’s core purpose has been at the heart of Graham’s leadership.
“Carolyn’s dedication to a post-secondary education grounded in excellence, inclusivity and community connection has been unwavering,” says Dr. Trimbee. “Her steady hand and collaborative approach exemplify the very best of public service.”
For Graham, looking back at her time on the board – both as a public member from 2011 to 2017 and as chair since August 2019 – is a source of pride.
“More of the city understands what MacEwan is today, and we’ve started to stand tall in our own right,” says Graham, whose term as chair ends on August 15, 2025. “We are now a first-choice institution, and we offer exactly the right learning experience for many learners and students. I’m really proud of what we’ve become and what we’ve built.”
Many significant moments in MacEwan’s evolution occurred during Graham’s tenure as board chair: celebrating the opening of the new kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre; marking the institution’s 50th anniversary; appointing Dr. Annette Trimbee as the university’s sixth president; helping shape Teaching Greatness, MacEwan’s ambitious strategic plan; installing Dr. Tony Fields as MacEwan’s inaugural chancellor; conferring MacEwan’s first honorary doctorates and generating momentum for a new School of Business building, which will open in 2027 and create capacity for an additional 7,500 students.
When the Government of Alberta committed $125 million in 2023 – a critical step in turning the vision for the new building into reality – MacEwan launched a capital fundraising initiative, the MacEwan Means Business campaign, and Graham was the first to donate to the cause.
“Carolyn is a supporter of big ideas and has always had the best interest of students at heart,” says Dr. Trimbee. “Her vision and generosity – on many fronts – will impact the university for generations to come.”