Saeed Zolfaghari to step down as vice-provost, faculty affairs

Following five years as vice-provost, faculty affairs at Ryerson University, Saeed Zolfaghari has decided to step away from the role, prior to the completion of the review required under Ryerson’s AAA Policy. His term, which was completed in June, has been extended until December 31, 2019. Following a period of post-administrative leave, Saeed will return to his home department, mechanical and industrial engineering. Saeed looks forward to renewing his focus on teaching, research and service.

The community survey conducted by my office at the start of the review process produced strong positive feedback regarding Saeed’s performance in his capacity as vice-provost, faculty affairs. Community members were especially positive in their remarks regarding his interpersonal and leadership skills, his knowledge and effectiveness, commitment to faculty development, and strength in leading his team. Saeed is well known amongst his peers for his strategic vision, commitment to collaboration and approachable management style that has enriched the university’s academic culture.

Notably, Saeed led the creation of the Provost’s Academic Leadership Program, launched Ryerson’s annual half-day information session for pre-tenured faculty, and delivered valued training sessions to numerous campus committees.  He also helped the drive for academic excellence, fostering a culture of success in line with the academic plan.

Saeed’s record of accomplishment as the vice-provost, faculty affairs has been very positive. Through effective work with the deans, chairs and directors, over the past five years nearly 200 new tenure-stream faculty were hired. In this academic year, nine new indigenous faculty were hired, demonstrating Ryerson’s ongoing commitment to Indigenization our campus.

Saeed joined Ryerson in 1999 as a professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, and became vice-provost, faculty affairs in 2014. A driver of equity, diversity and inclusion, he approaches his significant responsibilities as chief negotiator for Ryerson’s academic collective agreements and as the university's representative at academic bargaining-unit grievances with great thoughtfulness and integrity.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Saeed for his years of service as vice-provost, faculty affairs, and his many contributions to the Ryerson community in this role. Please join me in wishing Saeed continued happiness and success.

Michael Benarroch
Provost and Vice-President, Academic