Ontario Tech University extends Dr. Steven Murphy’s term as President and Vice-Chancellor
June 29, 2026
Ontario Tech University’s Board of Governors announces a two-year extension of Dr. Steven Murphy’s term as President and Vice-Chancellor. His appointment will continue through December 2030.
This extension reflects the Board’s strong confidence in Dr. Murphy’s leadership at a time when Ontario and Canada face accelerating economic and technological transformation. It ensures continuity as the university advances its leadership in energy, human-led artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced manufacturing: sectors critical to the country’s future competitiveness and resilience.
Since joining Ontario Tech in 2018, Dr. Murphy has led a period of focused growth and transformation, guiding the university from a young institution into a recognized leader in high-impact, future-facing fields. Through the global pandemic, ongoing funding pressures and significant shifts in international education, his leadership has consistently turned challenge into strategic opportunity.
Under his direction, Ontario Tech has undergone remarkable growth in research intensity, deepened industry and government partnerships, and launched a series of transformative initiatives that align the university with Canada's emerging economic priorities. These include the creation of Canada's first School of Artificial Intelligence, the expansion of leading programs in cybersecurity, nuclear energy, AI and advanced manufacturing, and the growth of entrepreneurial pathways through Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech’s entrepreneurship and innovation hub. Together, these initiatives have strengthened the university’s role as a national leader in talent development, research intensity, innovation and technology-driven economic growth.
Dr. Murphy’s extended term provides critical stability as Ontario Tech continues to scale its impact, elevate its global profile, and play a leading role in preparing talent and advancing innovation in a rapidly changing world.
Quotes
“Ontario Tech is meeting this moment with purpose, relevance and ambition. In a time defined by rapid disruption and opportunity, Dr. Murphy has positioned the university at the forefront of the industries shaping our economy. His leadership has strengthened our partnerships with government, industry and community, and ensured Ontario Tech is not only responding to change, but helping to lead it.”
- Laura Elliott, Chair, Ontario Tech University Board of Governors
“I am honoured by the Board’s continued confidence. Together with our faculty, staff, students and partners, we are building a university that is agile, values-driven, and deeply aligned with the needs of this moment – preparing graduates and advancing solutions that will shape a better future.”
- Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University
Related links
- Ontario Tech Office of the President
- Archive of Ontario Tech University news stories connected to the Office of the President
- Dr. Steven Murphy’s Ontario Tech Expert Centre profile
Media contact
Patricia Pickett
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
patricia.pickett@ontariotechu.ca
905.809.1675
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