We foster discussion between our 20 member institutions and one associate member institution on a wide range of university issues including funding, research, graduate studies, international relations and accessibility.
Working closely with our provincial and federal governments on public policies, we strengthen the ability of our universities to foster the talent, research and innovation that boost the economic and social well-being of Ontario and Canada. COU also co-ordinates initiatives and communications around issues, such as university accountability, quality assurance, academic integrity and the greening of our campuses.
How We Operate
COU operates under the auspices of the Council, which is the executive body made up of two representatives from each member and associate member institution: the executive head (president or principal) and an academic colleague appointed by each institution’s senior academic governing body.
Effective July 1, 2011, the new Chair of Council is Alastair Summerlee, President of the University of Guelph. View Dr. Summerlee’s bio here. COU would like to thank Sheldon Levy for his leadership and numerous contributions as Chair of COU from 2009 to 2011. In December 2009, Prof. Bonnie M. Patterson was appointed President and CEO of COU. View Prof. Patterson’s bio here.
Council meets twice during the academic year and its work is supported by the following standing committees (Click name for membership list):
COU's Budget and Audit Committee is a standing committee under COU Holding Association Inc., the corporate entity of COU, which is overseen by the Board of Directors of COU Holding Association Inc.
Click here for the complete 2011-12 list of COU committees and special groups affiliated with COU.
Click here for COU's constitution.