I am pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Cobb as my chief of staff.

Jason brings with him more than 20 years of experience in external relations, the post-secondary sector and the federal and provincial public service.

For the past 13 years, Jason has been with the University of Alberta, where he held various roles in both central administration and academic faculties. Highlights of his time at the U of A include playing a key role in writing the university’s academic plan, creating and leading the communications and marketing team for the dean of students’ portfolio and, most recently, fundraising for the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry.

A seasoned strategic advisor and issues manager, he has led regional communications for a crown corporation, handled media relations for Alberta Environment and served as advisor to the deputy minister of Alberta Health and Wellness.

Jason has a BA from the U of A and a MA in English from Concordia University in Montreal. A long-suffering Oilers fan, and a budding – and very amateur – astronomer, he also enjoys reading, writing and chasing the next adventure with his wife and two kids.

As I introduce you to Jason, I also want to acknowledge and thank my outgoing chief of staff Marg Leathem, who is retiring from the university on March 17.

We’ll miss seeking her advice, but I know that MacEwan’s staff, faculty and leadership will continue to benefit from having had access to her knowledge and experience.

Marg’s ability to connect ideas and people and navigate complexity as well as her kind, compassionate and collaborative approach have been integral to the growth and success of the  university. Marg and Jason will be working together for a few weeks to manage the transition.

Please join me in extending your best wishes to Marg, and in welcoming Jason, who will join us on February 27.

Sincerely,

Dr. Annette Trimbee

President and Vice-Chancellor

Originally distributed via GlobalMail on February 10, 2023